What should you know about cradle cap flaking off?

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, can produce greasy or dry scales on a baby’s scalp. As the surface skin sheds, flakes may lift during washing, brushing, or ordinary movement. Mild flaking does not by itself indicate infection. The skin underneath may look a little pink, but it should not be raw, bleeding, or markedly swollen.

Apply a small amount of a plain emollient to the scalp before bathing to soften attached scale, then wash with a gentle baby shampoo. A soft brush can help remove only the flakes that come away easily. Do not scratch, pick, or use adult dandruff products without a clinician’s advice. If scale keeps returning, a clinician can explain whether emollient care or a prescribed topical treatment is suitable; see [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) and [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) for treatment context.

Arrange medical advice if the scalp becomes painful, hot, swollen, cracked, wet, or foul-smelling, or if your baby seems unwell. Seek prompt review when redness spreads beyond the usual flaky areas, discharge appears, or scratching is persistent. These changes can signal irritation or another skin problem that needs examination.

Ask whether the scale looks typical for cradle cap, which emollient is appropriate, and how often to wash the scalp. Ask what signs would mean that a medicated treatment or a different diagnosis should be considered.