What should you know about cradle cap what age?

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, commonly starts in the early months of life. It may look like yellow, white, or brownish scale on the scalp, with mild redness underneath. Some babies have only a small patch, while others have scale around the hairline, behind the ears, or on the eyebrows. Age alone cannot confirm the diagnosis: persistent, very inflamed, painful, or widespread changes may have another cause.

Use gentle shampoo and loosen only scale that releases easily during washing. Never scrape the scalp or use strong adult products. If the scale is firmly attached, a clinician may recommend [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) before washing. When redness or scale does not settle, ask about [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) and the correct product for your baby's age. Keep the routine simple and stop any product that causes burning or a new rash.

Arrange a medical review if the rash begins outside the scalp, becomes raw, oozes, bleeds, swells, or seems painful. Fever, poor feeding, unusual drowsiness, or rapidly spreading redness needs prompt attention. If the condition first appears later in childhood, keeps returning intensely, or fails to improve with gentle care, a clinician can check for eczema, psoriasis, fungal infection, or contact irritation.

Ask whether the appearance fits cradle cap, which products match your baby's age, how often to wash, and what change should prompt a review.