What should you know about cradle cap forehead treatment?

Cradle cap is infantile seborrheic dermatitis, a scaly skin condition that can reach the hairline, forehead, or eyebrows. Treatment depends on whether the skin is mainly flaky or also inflamed, cracked, or moist. A product that is suitable for the scalp may not be appropriate close to the eyes, so location matters when choosing care.

Clean the area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free product. For attached scale, use a small amount of plain emollient to soften the surface, then wipe gently without scraping. Stop any product that causes increased redness or stinging. A clinician may discuss [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) for softening scale or [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) when the clinical picture calls for a medicated option. Keep all treatments away from the eyes unless specifically instructed.

Seek medical advice if gentle care does not help and the rash is spreading, very red, swollen, sore, cracked, or producing fluid. Arrange prompt assessment for eyelid involvement, facial swelling, fever, or a baby who is feeding poorly or unusually unsettled. Do not start steroid, antifungal, or adult dandruff products on a baby’s face without advice.

Ask which product is safe for the forehead and how close it may be used to the eyes. Ask how long to try gentle care, what improvement should look like, and what finding would suggest another rash.