Cradle Cap

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can usually diagnose cradle cap simply by examining your baby’s scalp. The condition has a characteristic appearance that makes additional testing unnecessary.

Treatment

Cradle cap often clears up on its own with gentle home care. However, if it doesn’t improve, your baby’s doctor may recommend:

• A low-potency hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation

• A shampoo containing 2% antifungal ketoconazole to control yeast growth

Take care to avoid getting any shampoo or cream into your baby’s eyes, as it can cause irritation.

If you are considering over-the-counter cortisone or antifungal creams, consult your baby’s doctor first. Some products can be too strong for a baby’s delicate skin. Dandruff shampoos containing salicylic acid are not recommended because this ingredient can be absorbed through the skin and may cause side effects.

Lifestyle and home remedies

The following home care tips can help manage cradle cap and keep your baby’s scalp healthy:

• Gently rub your baby’s scalp with your fingers or a soft washcloth to loosen flakes. Avoid scratching.

• Wash your baby’s hair daily with a mild baby shampoo. Before rinsing, use a soft brush or fine-toothed comb to loosen scales.

• If the scales don’t come off easily, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or mineral oil to the scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes or hours, then brush and shampoo as usual. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, as leftover oil can make cradle cap worse.

• Once the flakes are gone, wash your baby’s hair two to three times a week with gentle shampoo to prevent buildup.

Preparing for your appointment

If cradle cap does not improve with home care or begins to spread, schedule an appointment with your baby’s healthcare provider.

What you can do before your visit:

• Note how long your baby has had cradle cap.

• Record what treatments or products you have already tried.

• Mention how often you wash your baby’s hair.

• Bring a list of shampoos, oils, or creams used.

This information will help your healthcare provider recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan for your baby.