What is Cradle Cap
So what is Cradle Cap (proper name: seborrheic dermatitis) and why does it happen? cradle cap is slightly red scaly or crusty yellow patches on the scalp, face or diaper area. Sometimes it can also spread to other parts of the body.
The cause is unknown, but some research says it could be a combination of too much skin oil and a type of yeast that is found in sebum (the substance produced by the baby’s oil glands). With that said, nobody knows for sure.
Now that you know what it is, How do you deal with it?
I know cradle cap can be a pain to deal with. The good news is that it is most for most babies it does not cause discomfort and it can be managed. Here are some tips to help manage it.
- Wash baby’s hair frequently. For most babies, regular hair washing can help soften the scale and reduce cradle cap. For best results wash every other day.
- Use the right shampoo. Use fragrance-free baby shampoo or a Shampoo specially designed to help with cradle cap.
- Gently massage with oil. For stuck-on scale, use oil (like baby oil, olive, coconut) to help soften the scale and make it easier to remove. You will want to apply the oil before bathing and gently massage area. Use a soft brittle scalp brush to massage and remove flakes. I love this one: Freda Baby SkinSoother Baby Bath Silicone Brush.
- Wait at least 15 minutes before shampooing. You can also use a specially product like Freda Baby Oh Cr*p! Cradle Cap mask and spray.
- Seek help. It there is now improvement or if the scaliness turns to a rash, becomes painful or achy, or you notice an odor coming from the rash then you should consult your pediatrician or provider.
Cradle Cap doesn’t last forever
Most of the time cradle cap resolves before 1 year of age. While sometime it does happen in later in life, its not the norm. Cradle cap is generally easy to manage especially if start management when you first see signs or scaliness appear. But remember, if it spreads all over, becomes a red rash, feels hot to the touch have a provider look at your baby.
Are you dealing with or have you dealt with cradle cap? Do you have tip that I didn’t mention above, let me know in the comments?
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