What does cradle cap mean in children?

The scales may look white, yellow or brown and can extend toward the hairline, eyebrows or behind the ears. Cradle cap is linked to oil production and natural skin yeast, rather than poor hygiene. It is not usually painful or itchy, and it does not spread from child to child.

Wash the scalp gently with a mild child-appropriate shampoo, then loosen softened scales with a soft brush or cloth. Do not pick, scratch or pull at attached flakes, because this can irritate the skin and cause small breaks. Keep nails short if your child rubs the area. A clinician can recommend a suitable emollient or medicated product if gentle care does not help.

Arrange medical advice if the skin is weeping, bleeding, swollen, warm, tender or developing pus, or if the child has a fever or seems unwell. Seek advice when the rash is spreading quickly, intensely itchy, causing hair loss, or not improving with gentle care. These features can point to irritation, infection or another skin condition.

Ask whether the appearance fits cradle cap, which cleanser or scale-softening product is appropriate for your child, and whether redness or discharge needs a different treatment. Mention any new products, scratching, sleep disruption or rash elsewhere on the body.