Cradle cap is an extremely common condition in infants. It usually starts around 2-6 weeks old and lasts a few months. It usually resolves by 6 months of age but may last up to a year. It is harmless and usually resolves without treatment; there are some things you can do, however, if you want to make it go away faster or to improve the condition. No one knows for sure what causes it; it is thought to be due to hormonal changes affecting the oil glands in the scalp.
Symptoms
- Yellowish to white plaques, scales and crusts in the scalp
- They are often greasy but can also be dry
- They are not painful and do not usually itch
- There may be an associated rash on the forehead, ears, and/or neck. This is called seborrheic dermatitis.
Treatment
- No treatment is necessary. You may treat it to make it better or to make it go away faster.
- Gently scrape the flakes off with a baby brush or rough washcloth (some mothers use their fingernails).
- If the flakes are thick and difficult to remove, you can soften them with baby oil.Leave the baby oil on the scalp for an hour, then wash your baby’s hair. Then massage the scalp with the baby brush or washcloth.
- Sometimes a dandruff shampoo helps; it can be used 1-2 times a week. Be sure to keep it out of the baby’s eyes.
- For severe cradle cap, hydrocortisone cream (1% available over-the-counter) can be used several times a day for up to a week
