Cradle Cap: Everything you need to know

Cradle Cap: Everything you need to know

Learn how to combat infant dandruff

Along with the joy and love that comes with new parenthood, it’s only natural to spend sleepless nights thinking about your little one. You analyse every noise they make, every small skin imperfection – just in case it’s something you should be worried about.

One thing every new parent should know is that babies can develop deficiencies and conditions that you may not know how to deal with. One of those conditions is cradle cap – and the good news is, you don’t need to rush to the emergency room for it.

Here’s what you need to know about cradle cap:

  • Non-inflammatory skin condition. Also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, cradle cap can sometimes also affect the eyes, eyebrows, nose, and ears.
  • Common in three-month-old babies. Cradle cap is most common in a baby’s first three months. As your baby gets older, they are less likely to become symptomatic.
  • Known as infant dandruff. Cradle cap causes scale-like patches to appear on the scalp. It can be yellow or white, and although it’s not painful or itchy, cradle cap is thick, oily and difficult to remove.
  • Not contagious. Cradle cap is a short-term condition that will generally go away on its own in a few months. It’s not contagious and is not an indication of poor hygiene or an allergy.
  • Hair loss is rare. If your baby loses hair where they have cradle cap, it should grow back after the skin condition goes away.

Because no one is too sure what causes cradle cap or why newborns are so susceptible to it, it’s not preventable. However, there are several ways to treat cradle cap that can help keep it from reoccurring.

 

10 best ways to treat cradle cap

1. Don’t scratch the skin – massage instead
Number one rule with cradle cap – although it’s tempting, don’t scratch it away. Scratching can lead to infection, scarring or minor injury from your nails.

Massaging the scalp is a gentler way of breaking up the patchy skin than using fingernails, and is the best way to brush away loose flakes.

2. Use an emollient

Before washing, massage the scalp gently using an emollient – Vaseline, mineral oil, baby oil, Nude Alchemist Cradle fighter, or Nude Alchemist Relief Cream are good options – to soften and break down the scales on baby’s scalp. Keep the emollient on as long as possible but make sure to wash it off – don’t leave it on.

3. Wash the scalp daily

Keeping your baby’s scalp clean is one of the most important steps for getting rid of cradle cap – and can also help prevent future breakouts. Use a gentle baby shampoo to wash the hair and scalp. Massaging the area will help to break up the patches so they fall off (remember, no picking or peeling!). Don’t worry if the scales don’t come off during the first wash – continue with your daily washing routine until they begin to come loose.

Also, keep baths short, make sure they’re not too hot, and limit bathing to once a day. Too many baths can cause the skin to dry out, which will only make your baby’s sebaceous glands release excess oil – meaning more cradle cap.

4. Rinse the scalp thoroughly

A baby’s skin is super-sensitive, so rinse your infant’s scalp well after washing their head. This can help prevent further irritation during treatment.

5. Brush hair gently

If you’re having trouble removing your baby’s patches of cradle cap, you could try using a brush while they are in the bath. A soft baby hairbrush, rubber cradle cap brush or fine-toothed comb should do the trick. Just make sure you combine brushing with daily emollient use and scalp-washing routine – and be gentle so you don’t damage your baby’s skin.

6. Cradle cap shampoo

Most cradle cap symptoms can be alleviated using a gentle baby shampoo. But if that doesn’t work, ask your doctor about over-the-counter dandruff shampoo or a medicated product. Many shampoos are not formulated for babies and may cause your little one further skin irritations. Therefore, it’s best to ask for a professional recommendation.

7. Apply a topical cream

Usually, a topical cream isn’t necessary to treat cradle cap, but some doctors may prescribe one if the scalp is inflamed. It’s best not to apply creams unless you’ve been instructed by your doctor to do so.

8. Use a humidifier

One of the best methods to keep cradle cap in check – and for keeping your baby’s skin lovely and soft – is preventing it from drying out. A humidifier in your baby’s nursery will help their skin remain well hydrated and stop it from releasing excess sebum.

Less sebum equals less cradle cap! Check out this Crane Humidifier with Aroma Diffuser.

9. Be patient

Easier said than done – we know! – but be patient as it will take some time for your baby’s skin to heal itself.

10. If in doubt, consult your doctor

Generally, cradle cap will go away on its own. But it’s hard not to want to help reduce – and get rid of – the problem. Most cases of cradle cap can be treated at home, but if your baby’s symptoms persist for months, or their cradle cap becomes red and infected, visit your doctor or call the Plunket helpline for help or advice.

You might be prescribed a safe yet strong shampoo or cream alternative to help decrease symptoms, or you may need a small dose of antibiotics. 

 

Cradle cap is harmless and temporary


Cradle cap isn’t the easiest thing to look at, especially when you want to show off your new bundle of joy to your friends and family. Just remember, it’s temporary, it isn’t causing your baby any distress – and it can be treated with a few simple steps. Use an emollient, carefully wash baby’s head once a day, use a soft brush to help remove stubborn scales – and your baby’s cradle cap will soon disappear.