From rashes to diarrhea, there’s lots to prepare for, and learn about, when caring for newborns and toddlers. Take for instance cradle cap — a common skin issue many newborns develop. It’s a type of seborrheic dermatitis thought to be triggered by overactive oil glands that causes thick yellowish or white scaly patches to form on the scalp.
If you notice something out of the ordinary, a pediatrician is always the best place to seek advice. When it comes to issues like cradle cap, Ugonma “Ugo” Harriet Okparaocha, MD, and the team at Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center have you covered. From allergy management to newborn checks, we provide comprehensive care for children and teens of all ages.
Cradle cap typically develops in newborns between the ages of 2-4 weeks. If your baby is one of the 70% of newborns affected by cradle cap, check out our four-step guide to treat it.
If you've noticed flaky, scaly patches on your baby’s head, you're likely dealing with cradle cap, a very common and harmless condition. These patches can look slightly red and scaly or yellow and crusty, and they often have a greasy appearance.
Cradle cap usually begins on the scalp but can also pop up on the face (around the eyelids, nose, or behind the ears) or even in skin folds, like in the diaper area. Although it may look a bit concerning, cradle cap doesn’t cause any itching or discomfort and isn’t contagious.
If you’re ready to help restore your baby’s soft, smooth skin, try a few simple steps to manage cradle cap and speed up the process. While cradle cap often clears up on its own within a few weeks or months, these gentle strategies can help things along:
Gently wash your baby’s hair daily with a mild, fragrance-free shampoo. If you don’t see improvement, consider trying a cradle cap-specific shampoo (check the label or ask us for a recommendation).
As you wash your baby’s hair, softly massage the area with your fingers, a washcloth, or a gentle brush to lift the scales. If they’re stubborn, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or mineral oil, let it sit before bath time, then shampoo and gently remove the scales. Rinse thoroughly to avoid buildup.
Once the scales are gone, wash your baby’s hair two to three times a week to keep cradle cap at bay.
To maintain your baby’s smooth, healthy skin, apply a gentle, fragrance-free baby moisturizer after baths. This can help prevent dryness, which may reduce the the chance of cradle cap coming back.
If the cradle cap seems to worsen, spreads to other areas, or develops an odor, schedule a visit with our team. We can recommend a more effective treatment. It’s also important to bring your baby in if you notice any hair loss or if the cradle cap seems to cause your baby discomfort or itchiness.
When you notice anything unexpected with your baby, you don’t have to navigate the issue alone. Our team at Laurel Pediatric & Teen Medical Center in Bel Air, Maryland, is here to provide expert guidance and support for all your baby’s skin and health needs.
From personalized care recommendations to advanced treatments, we’re dedicated to helping your baby thrive. Contact us online or by phone today to schedule a visit and let us be your partner in ensuring your little one’s health and comfort.
