Cradle Cap
Cradle cap, or infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is one of the most common skin conditions seen in infants. It typically appears in the first or second month of life, with the development of yellowish scales on the scalp.
Cradle cap primarily affects the scalp and face. On the scalp, the crusts formed are oily and have a white or yellowish color, often surrounded by redness. In some infants, the crusts may also appear on the eyebrows or the face.
Cradle cap is a very common condition, with nearly 50% of infants developing this skin issue. Although it may cause concern for parents, cradle cap is not contagious and does not cause pain or significant discomfort for the baby.
Treatment
To relieve the symptoms of cradle cap, follow these helpful tips:
- Gentle infant massage: Use your fingers or a soft comb to gently massage the baby’s scalp. This helps in removing the flakes.
- Daily washing with infant shampoo: Use a mild infant shampoo at least once a day, making sure to rinse it well. Then, gently pat the scalp dry with a clean towel.
- Special shampoo for cradle cap: Use shampoos specifically designed to treat cradle cap, which help in removing the flakes.
- Application of softening oil: Choose a special oil and gently massage it into the baby’s scalp. Leave it on for 30-60 minutes. Afterward, wash the baby’s hair with infant shampoo. This will help soften the flakes and make them easier to remove.
