Cradle cap: a cute name, for a not-as-cute skin condition that occurs in 70% of babies. Here’s what new parents should know about cradle cap, including what it is, what to look for, and how to treat it.
What Is Cradle Cap?
Cradle cap, or infant seborrheic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes scaly or crusty-looking patches on baby’s skin, particularly on their scalp. Many babies develop the condition between two and six weeks after birth.
It’s not known what exactly causes cradle cap. One theory is that hormones passed from mama to baby can cause higher oil (or sebum) production than necessary in the hair follicles and oil glands. This causes skin cells that are typically shed to remain attached to the scalp, creating scales on the skin and amongst baby’s hair. Another reason for cradle cap could be the presence of a type of yeast that grows in the sebum.
Poor hygiene is NOT a cause of cradle cap, and it’s not contagious. If you’re unaware of the condition it can surprise you to see these patches pop up on your baby’s head—but not to worry! It’s quite common, and typically doesn’t hurt or cause itching.
What Are the Signs of Cradle Cap?
You will know if your baby has cradle cap if you see the following:
- Scaly or crusty-looking patches on baby’s scalp
- Oily or dry scalp that seems to have white or yellow flakes
- Mild redness on the skin
While typically found on baby’s head, these scaly looking patches could also be found on baby’s ears, eyelids, nose, armpits, neck or groin. If found anywhere besides the head, it’s important to bring it to the attention of baby’s provider.
How Can You Prevent and Treat Cradle Cap?
While there’s no sure-fire method to prevent cradle cap, shampooing your little one’s hair every few days with a mild fragrance-free baby shampoo can help prevent the buildup of oil on the scalp.
If your baby does get cradle cap, it typically goes away on its own without medical treatment before baby reaches 12 months. Wash your baby’s hair and scalp once a day with a mild shampoo, then use a soft brush or washcloth to lightly brush baby’s scalp and loosen the scales when possible.
If it’s a bad case, you can apply mineral or coconut oil to baby’s scalp for an hour or two before shampooing to help loosen the flakes. Some even find it helpful to use a soft brush or fine-toothed comb to brush baby’s head before shampooing. Do not scratch or pick off the scales with your fingernails, as an infection could develop.
If you’ve tried to brush off the scales without success or cradle cap is present after baby turns 1-year-old, their provider may recommend a hydrocortisone cream or shampoo with an anti-fungal medication (be careful of baby’s eyes when you rinse). Avoid using any over-the-counter treatments or dandruff shampoos without direct approval from baby’s provider. Some ingredients in these products may not be safe for your little one if absorbed through their skin.
Continue washing baby’s hair and scalp every two to three days to help keep oil and scale buildup at bay. If baby’s cradle cap continues to get worse, or seems to spread to other parts of the body, schedule an appointment with baby’s provider to discuss treatment options.