Cradle cap remedies: what helps

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, causes greasy or dry flakes and yellowish scale on the scalp. It is a skin condition of infancy and is not caused by poor hygiene. The scale may look thick even when the skin underneath is only mildly irritated.

Before washing, apply a small amount of a plain, fragrance-free emollient to the scale and let it soften briefly. Loosen only what lifts easily with a soft baby brush or washcloth, then wash with a mild baby shampoo and rinse well. Do not pick at attached scale, use adult dandruff products, or put essential oils on the scalp. If the skin remains inflamed, a clinician can advise whether an emollient approach or topical antifungal treatment is suitable.

Arrange a medical assessment if the scalp is bleeding, oozing, swollen, painful, or developing crusts that spread beyond the scalp. Seek prompt advice if your baby seems unwell, has a fever, or the rash involves the face, body folds, or nappy area. A clinician can check whether another condition is present when gentle care is not helping.

Ask which emollient is appropriate for your baby’s age, how often to shampoo, and whether the redness suggests a need for prescribed treatment.