Hair Coming Off With Cradle Cap

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, causes greasy or dry scale on a baby’s scalp. A loose hair can be caught in a flake and come away as the scale lifts. Rubbing, picking, or combing forcefully can pull out hairs and irritate the skin. Hair coming away with scale is different from smooth, expanding bald patches, broken hairs, or a scalp that is very red and sore.

Use a small amount of a plain emollient recommended for your baby, allow it to soften the scale for the advised time, and wash with a mild baby shampoo. Loosen only flakes that lift easily with a soft brush or fingertips; never scratch or peel attached scale. Rinse away oily product so it does not remain on the scalp. Emollient Therapy may be discussed with a clinician. Do not use an antifungal or medicated product unless a healthcare professional recommends the specific product and instructions.

Arrange a paediatric or dermatology review if hair loss is patchy, the scalp is painful, swollen, bleeding, wet, crusted, or has spreading redness. Seek prompt advice if the baby seems unwell, has a fever, or the rash extends beyond the scalp and is worsening. Topical Antifungal Treatment is sometimes considered for selected cases, but the diagnosis and product must be confirmed for an infant.

Does this look like uncomplicated cradle cap? Which emollient and shampoo should we use, and how long should it stay on? What changes would suggest infection, eczema, or another cause of hair loss?