Cradle cap may look a bit disturbing, but it is a common and harmless skin condition. A skin condition that often develops in the first months after birth. We’ll explain exactly what it is and what you can do to alleviate it.
What is cradle cap?
Cradle cap is a common skin disorder in babies and manifests itself in oily, yellow flakes on your baby’s scalp. Fortunately, it is neither painful nor dangerous for your baby. These flakes often appear on the forehead, between the hairs or near the eyebrows.
Why do babies get cradle cap?
The actual cause of cradle cap is not entirely clear. It seems to be associated with increased sebum production. Excess sebum is excreted and causes old skin cells not to fall off but to stick together. They form the flakes that become visible to the eye. Another cause may be a local yeast infection (pityrosporon yeast). However, opinions differ on this assumption. Do you have any additional questions about skin disorder? We recommend that you discuss this matter with your obstetrician
Do all babies get cradle cap?
Even though not all babies have this skin condition, it is a very common condition. Many parents discover that their infant develops these skin flakes in the first few months. Fortunately, it is nothing to worry about. After about 6 months, it disappears on its own. In some cases, it may take a bit longer.
What can you do about cradle cap?
If your baby has this skin condition, it doesn’t really need any action on your part. However, if you want it to disappear a little faster? Here are a few tips that can help.
- Baby oil: Gently massage the scalp of your little one with a bit of baby oil or any other mild oil. Leave it on overnight.
- Careful combing: Use a comb to carefully comb out the loose flakes the next morning. Make sure to do it very gently. You don’t want to cause any wounds on your baby’s head.
- Mild baby shampoo: Use a gentle, soap-free baby shampoo to keep the scalp clean without stimulating sebum production.
Does the scalp look red and irritated, does your child suffer from itching or are you unsure about what the skin condition is exactly? Then consult your GP. You will often be given a special shampoo or ointment that reduces the itching and redness.
A healthy baby skin
Cradle cap in babies is a normal condition and nothing to worry about. It is mostly harmless and disappears automatically after a few months. Are you concerned? Then consult your GP.
Would you like to talk to other parents, whose babies also have cradle cap and learn how they are coping with this condition? Download our app and join the discussion in the forum!
