Cradle Cap in Children

Cradle cap is a crusty, scaly rash on a baby's scalp. It's common and harmless, and not a sign of allergy, infection, or hygiene problems.

Call Doctor If:
Your baby's cradle cap seems scaly or itchy.

1. Wash the Scalp

• Use a gentle shampoo to wash your baby's scalp daily until the cradle cap clears up.
• Don't use a medicated shampoo on a baby unless a pediatrician recommends it.

2. Remove Scales

• Brushing the hair with a soft-bristled brush will help remove some of the scales.
• Gently massaging your baby's scalp will remove scales, too.
• Using baby oil may help remove scales when combing the scalp.

3. Be Patient

• Cradle cap usually goes away on its own. Most children outgrow it before age 3.

SOURCES:

FamilyDoctor.org: "Seborrheic Dermatitis: What It Is and How to Treat It."

HealthyChildren.org: "Cradle Cap."