Cradle cap, also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that results in crusty or oily scaly patches on a baby’s scalp. Unlike other skin conditions, cradle cap is not painful or itchy, but it can cause thick white or yellow scales that are difficult to remove. Cradle cap, also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition that results in crusty or oily scaly patches on a baby’s scalp. Unlike other skin conditions, cradle cap is not painful or itchy, but it can cause thick white or yellow scales that are difficult to remove.
Fortunately, cradle cap usually resolves on its own within a few weeks or months. To help alleviate the symptoms, it is recommended to wash your baby’s scalp daily with a mild shampoo, as this can loosen and remove the scales. It is important to avoid scratching the affected area.
If home care measures do not improve the condition or if it appears to be severe, it is advisable to consult your baby’s doctor or a healthcare professional who may suggest a medicated shampoo, lotion, or other treatment.
Common symptoms of cradle cap include patchy scaling or thick crusts on the scalp, oily or dry skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales, skin flakes, and mild inflammation. Similar scales may also be present on the ears, eyelids, nose, and groin. Although cradle cap is common in newborns, it is typically not itchy.
It is important to seek medical attention if home treatments are ineffective or if the patches spread to your baby’s face or body.
The exact cause of cradle cap is unknown, but it is believed that hormones passed from the mother to the baby before birth may play a role. These hormones can stimulate the oil glands and hair follicles to produce excessive oil, known as sebum. Additionally, a fungus called malassezia, which grows in the sebum alongside bacteria, may also contribute to the condition. Antifungal treatments, such as ketoconazole, have shown to be effective in managing symptoms, supporting the theory that malassezia is a contributing factor. It is important to note that cradle cap is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene.
To prevent cradle cap, it is recommended to shampoo your baby’s hair every few days using a baby shampoo, unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional. Fortunately, cradle cap usually resolves on its own within a few weeks or months. To help alleviate the symptoms, it is recommended to wash your baby’s scalp daily with a mild shampoo, as this can loosen and remove the scales. It is important to avoid scratching the affected area.
