What should you know about cradle cap around eyes?

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, can cause greasy or dry flakes and mild redness around the eyebrows, forehead, or outer eyelid skin. Flaking beside an eye does not automatically mean the eye itself is involved. The skin may look more noticeable after bathing or in warm weather.

Avoid assuming every eyelid rash is cradle cap. Eczema, irritation, infection, or a blocked eyelid gland can look different and need different care. Keep products out of the eye and do not lift scales that are firmly attached.

Wash your hands, then clean the surrounding skin with lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Do not scrub, pick, or use cotton buds inside the eyelid margin. If a clinician agrees, a small amount of plain emollient may soften scale on nearby skin; wipe away anything that migrates toward the eye. A clinician may discuss [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) or [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) when the appearance and location support those options.

Arrange prompt medical advice if the eyelid becomes swollen, painful, hot, crusted with discharge, or difficult to open. Seek urgent help if the eye looks cloudy, the child seems to have vision trouble, or there is marked sensitivity to light. A rash that spreads quickly, oozes, bleeds, or does not improve with gentle care also deserves assessment.

Ask whether the rash is limited to the surrounding skin, which cleanser or emollient is suitable, and whether any treatment should be kept away from the eyelid margin. Show when the flakes began and whether swelling, discharge, rubbing, or feeding and sleep changes occur.