Newborn babies experience many changes after birth, and their skin is one of them. Whether it be skin color, dryness, flakiness, peeling, or varying rashes in different body areas that may come and go, most of the changes you see are typical and do not warrant concern. However, some skin conditions may linger (be slow to disappear), so understanding such skin conditions and what to do will be key to effectively managing them—for instance, cradle cap.
What is Cradle Cap?
Cradle cap is a simple term for a type of seborrheic dermatitis (a skin condition) specifically affecting babies, also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis (ISD). This skin condition is a scaly rash that can be oily or flaky and only appears on the scalp. Cradle cap is common and affects most babies. It usually begins within the first three months of life with no negative effects on your baby’s health. Although the appearance may look concerning, your baby will not typically feel itchy or any pain or discomfort associated with this condition.
Symptoms of Cradle Cap
· Yellow or white scaly patches or crusts attached to the scalp
· Greasy or dry scales
· A red or pink rash surrounding the scales (in babies with lighter skin tones)
· A lighter or darker rash surrounding the scales (in babies with darker skin tones)
· Possible hair loss when scales come off (hair will grow back)
Is Cradle Cap Contagious?
Cradle cap can extend to different areas of your baby’s body. However, it is not contagious to others. Because cradle cap is specific to the scalp, it is called seborrheic dermatitis when this scaly rash appears in places such as the face, behind the ears, armpits, and bottom.
Causes of Cradle Cap
The exact cause of cradle cap is not known. Cradle cap is not due to poor hygiene or an allergic reaction, nor is it due to an infection. Research presumes hormones received from the mother likely cause an overproduction of oil glands in the scalp, causing the dead scales to stay attached when they should otherwise shed. A reaction to a common yeast (Malassezia) that everyone has on their skin is also presumed, but it is unknown exactly how.
Diagnosis of Cradle Cap
There is no need for a biopsy or any lab tests. Cradle cap can be diagnosed by your baby’s healthcare provider simply by looking at how the skin appears on the scalp.
Treatment of Cradle Cap
Cradle cap should go away on its own without any treatment. However, parents may provide some care at home to decrease the number of scales on their baby’s scalp by doing the following:
·Soften and loosen scales. Apply an emollient like baby oil, petroleum jelly, or mineral oil to the skin (do not use olive oil). Gently massage the emollient into the scalp and leave it in for several hours or even overnight, if necessary, to break up the scale before washing your baby's hair.
·Wash your baby’s hair daily. Use a mild, fragrance-free baby shampoo. Massage your baby's scalp with your fingertips or a soft washcloth while lathering. Gently remove scales with a soft brush or a cradle cap comb before rinsing.
·Prevent the risk of infection. Although tempting, do not scratch or pick at the scales; doing so may increase your baby's risk for infection.
·Once the scales are gone, wash your baby's hair with a mild, fragrance-free shampoo at least twice weekly to prevent recurrence.
When to see your healthcare provider
See your baby’s doctor or healthcare professional if:
· Cradle cap does not improve with treatment
· Rash spreads beyond the scalp
· The scalp has a foul odor
· The affected area appears red or swollen
· Fluid or blood is draining from the scales
· Your baby is showing signs of pain or discomfort
· Cradle cap lasts longer than 12 months
Summary
Cradle cap is a common skin condition among babies, causing crusty or oily scaly patches that appear on the scalp. It is harmless and has no negative effects on your baby’s health. Cradle cap will go away in weeks or a few months and will clear up by the age of 1 year; therefore, treatment is optional. If the condition lasts longer than 1 year of age, see your baby’s doctor for further evaluation.
Sources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15786-cradle-cap-seborrheic-dermatitis-in-infants#overview Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board