What should you know about cradle cap relief?

Cradle cap, or infantile seborrheic dermatitis, can leave dry or greasy flakes on the scalp. Relief means making the scalp more comfortable and gradually reducing scale; it does not require forcing every flake off in one session. Some babies have little discomfort, while others become irritated by rubbing, sweat, or repeated handling. Improvement may be gradual, and recurrence can happen. A clinician should reassess a rash that behaves unlike the baby's usual cradle cap.

Wash the scalp with a mild baby cleanser and lukewarm water. If scale is firmly attached, ask a clinician or pharmacist whether an emollient is suitable, then let it soften before using a soft brush lightly; see Emollient Therapy for related information. Never scrape with a fingernail or pull at resistant flakes. Avoid fragranced products and adult dandruff preparations. Rinse thoroughly, pat dry, and stop any step that causes rawness or marked redness. Keep the routine simple so a new reaction is easier to recognise.

Arrange an assessment if the scalp remains very inflamed, becomes painful, develops cracks, bleeding, pus, swelling, or spreading redness, or if the rash extends to the face or body. Seek prompt care when the baby has fever, feeds poorly, is unusually sleepy, or appears unwell. Ask for review if gentle care has not helped or the rash repeatedly returns.

Ask which cleanser and softening product suit your baby's skin, how to brush safely, and what signs show that care is working. If the scalp is persistently inflamed, ask whether Topical Antifungal Treatment should be considered and what follow-up is needed.