What is cradle cap?
Cradle cap is a scaly rash of the scalp in newborn babies as young as 2 weeks old to 12 months old. The medical term is seborrheic dermatitis.
It is most commonly on the scalp, forehead and face. However, cradle cap can also appear behind the ears, in the diaper area, the armpits, and other skin folds and creases.
Cradle cap in infants usually resolves by 12 months of age. It might come back around puberty as dandruff.
What does cradle cap look like?
👶 Patches of yellow scales and crusts attached to the scalp
👶Scales can be flaky, greasy or dry
👶Not itchy or painful
What causes cradle cap?
The exact cause is unknown. One possible cause is the hormones from the mother crosses the placenta to the baby before birth. These hormones cause the oil glands in the skin to become overactive releasing a lot of oil. The oil then causes the dead skin cells to stick together forming the yellow crusts and scales on the scalp.
What is the treatment for cradle cap?
For mild cradle cap, you can treat it at home by following these steps:
Gather your supplies:
☑️ Olive oil
☑️ Soft-bristled hair brush or fingers
☑️ Cloth
☑️ Baby Shampoo
Let’s start.
1️⃣ Wash your baby’s hair once a day with mild, tear-free baby shampoo.
2️⃣ Apply olive oil to the scalp and massage it in gently.
3️⃣ Let the oil absorb for 15 minutes.
4️⃣ Gently remove scales using a soft bristled hair brush or your fingers.
5️⃣ Wipe clean with a cloth and rinse well.
That’s it! Repeat the above steps daily.
Talk to your doctor when…
🩺 Regular shampooing along with home treatment of cradle cap doesn’t improve and/or resolve.
🩺 You suspect infection (looks red, drain fluid/water blisters, hot to touch).
🩺 Cradle cap is still present after baby is 12 months old.
🩺 Raw rash behind the ears.
🩺 Rash spreads beyond the scalp.
🩺 Cradle cap gets worse with treatment.
🩺 Cradle cap lasts longer than 12 months.
🩺 You have other questions or concern.
Comment below any cradle cap treatment you have tried that worked!
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