What should you know about Ducray cradle cap?

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, commonly causes yellowish, white, or greasy scale on the scalp. It may extend to the eyebrows, behind the ears, or other oily areas. Babies are generally not seriously bothered by it, and it is not caused by poor hygiene. A branded product may be marketed for cradle cap, but the label, ingredients, and your baby’s age should be checked before use. A different rash can resemble cradle cap, especially when the skin is very red or weeping.

Apply a small amount of a baby-suitable emollient or the product recommended by your clinician to soften scale, then wash with a mild infant shampoo and loosen only what lifts easily with a soft brush. Do not scratch, pick, or pull attached flakes. Keep products away from the eyes and stop if the skin becomes irritated. If scale is extensive, recurrent, or accompanied by inflammation, a clinician may recommend a specific treatment, including topical antifungal treatment when another cause is suspected.

Arrange a medical review if the scalp is painful, bleeding, very itchy, swollen, or producing fluid, or if the rash spreads beyond typical areas. Seek prompt care for fever, marked lethargy, rapidly spreading redness, or signs of infection. Review is also sensible when gentle care has not helped or hair is coming out in patches.

Ask whether the rash fits cradle cap, which ingredient is suitable for your baby’s age, how often to wash the scalp, and what signs indicate infection or another diagnosis. Confirm whether emollient therapy is enough or whether a prescribed treatment is needed.