Cradle cap is a very common non-contagious condition among babies that causes dandruff-like flaking on the scalp. The flakes can be white, yellow, or even brown, and they sometimes appear as patches or scaling.
The cause is unknown, but it is suspected that a hormonal surge at the end of pregnancy that passes from mother to baby causes baby to overproduce oil from the seborrheic glands, resulting in cradle cap.
Although doctors do not know definitively what causes cradle cap, they do know these facts:
- it is not contagious;
- it is not caused by poor hygiene;
- it is not caused by allergies; and
- it is not painful.
When flaking appears in locations other than the scalp, like the ears or armpits, it is referred to as seborrheic dermatitis. The condition may be itchy and unsightly, but it is generally harmless. In this case, a trip to the pediatrician is in order, and he or she may prescribe cortisone cream.
Generally it is unnecessary to treat cradle cap beyond regular gentle shampooing and grooming with a soft brush or fine-toothed comb.
Some more persistent cases may be treated with natural oil, like almond or olive oil. Rub a small amount of oil into the scalp, letting it absorb into the skin for several minutes. Then, comb or brush out the flakes, and finish by washing baby’s scalp with a gentle shampoo.
If the condition worsens or seems bothersome, your pediatrician may suggest other remedies.
Preventing cradle cap is virtually impossible since its cause it unknown; although some suggest regular gentle shampooing and brushing can help. However, once a baby recovers, it is unlikely the baby will develop it again.