Cradle cap is a common, harmless skin condition in infants characterized by yellow, greasy-looking scales on the scalp. It is a form of seborrheic dermatitis and is usually self-limiting, often improving within a few weeks to months without treatment, though gentle care can help speed up the clearing. What cradle cap typically looks like
- On the scalp: yellow or brownish greasy scales that may be crusty.
- Sometimes affects the face, behind the ears, or in skin folds, but it is most noticeable on the scalp.
What causes cradle cap
- The exact cause is not fully understood, but factors likely include overactive oil (sebum) production and a skin yeast called Malassezia in some infants. Hormonal influences from the mother may also play a role in early infancy.
How to manage cradle cap at home
- Gentle washing: Wash the baby's scalp with a mild baby shampoo, then gently loosen scales with a soft brush or cloth.
- Soften, then remove: Apply a small amount of gentle, non-medicated emollient or baby oil to the scalp to soften crusts, wait a few minutes, then brush and rinse. Do not forcibly pick at crusts.
- If scales persist: A physician may recommend a medicated shampoo or a briefly used anti-seborrheic scalp preparation suitable for infants.
When to see a clinician
- If cradle cap covers a large area, if there is redness, swelling, or oozing, if the condition worsens, or if there are signs of infection or fever.
- If over-the-counter approaches don’t help after several weeks, a healthcare provider can assess and suggest appropriate treatments.
Common questions
- Is cradle cap itchy or painful for babies? It usually isn’t itchy or painful, though the scalp may appear irritated.
- Will it affect my baby’s health? Generally, cradle cap is harmless and does not indicate poor hygiene or a serious illness.
If you’d like, I can tailor guidance based on your baby’s age, skin type, and how long cradle cap has been present, or provide step-by-step washing and gentle-scale-removal routines.
