Cradle
Cap
What is Cradle Cap?
Cradle Cap is a very common skin condition that is often found in perfectly healthy babies. In many healthy infants, the skin cells on their scalp grow faster than they can fall off, leaving a layer of crusty, dry patches of skin. Cradle cap is created when a newborn’s oil-producing glands become over-active due to hormonal changes.
What are the Symptoms?
Cradle cap can occur in any baby. It can affect about half of all newborns. Most commonly it begins between two weeks to 3 months after birth. Cradle cap can be mild and look like dandruff or it can develop to thick, yellow patches on the scalp, around the ear as well as the eyebrows.
How long does it last?
In most children, cradle cap can last anywhere from a few weeks, up to a year.
How is it treated?
Cradle cap should be treated as gently and naturally as possible. It can be itchy, but it is considered a harmless condition. The gentlest treatment is to simply rub a small amount of baby oil or olive oil onto your baby’s scalp and wait a few minutes so it will soften the crusty skin. A soft washcloth and a fine- toothed comb should loosen the scales. Use shampoos with natural ingredients to remove the oil and leave your baby’s scalp clean. I know it will be hard, but try to avoid using your fingernails to pick at the scales. With proper care this condition should disappear as your baby outgrows it. If the cradle cap is especially reddened and does not respond to this treatment be sure to consult with your pediatrician.