What is it? Cradle cap is type of seborrhea — which, in adults, is called dandruff. It’s very common in babies, usually appearing in the first few weeks of life.
What causes it? Scientists still aren’t certain what causes cradle cap. One possibility is that hormones that cross the placenta before birth prompt glands in the baby’s scalp to produce excess oil, which prevents dead skin from flaking off. Other experts suspect cradle cap is triggered by oversensitivity to a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin.
What does it look like? Cradle cap usually looks like a greasy yellowish crust or scales on the scalp.
How is it treated? Cradle cap usually distresses parents more than it bothers babies! However, the condition can cause itching, so treatment is usually recommended. In most cases, this simple home remedy is all that’s needed: Massage a little mineral oil into the scalp, allow it to sit, then gently brush away any loosened flakes. Repeat the process a few times a week, until the cradle cap clears up. Don’t scrape or pull at scales, which can introduce infection. If the scales become inflamed or start to spread, or haven’t started to disappear by about 18 months, your child’s doctor may prescribe a medicated shampoo like Nizoral or Selsun Blue, or hydrocortisone cream.
