Hair Loss Due to Cradle Cap: What to Know

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, creates greasy or dry scales on the scalp. Hair may come away with a scale or break when an infant rubs the area, so small areas can look sparse. The follicles are usually not damaged by the surface scale itself. Smooth sharply defined patches, broken hairs with marked redness, pus, swelling or scaling beyond the scalp may point to another condition and should be checked.

Ask a clinician or pharmacist about Emollient Therapy to soften scales, then wash gently with an infant-appropriate cleanser. Do not pick, scrape or pull attached flakes, and keep fingernails short if rubbing is frequent. A clinician may recommend Topical Antifungal Treatment when the appearance suggests a yeast-related component. Use only products and instructions suitable for the infant’s age.

Arrange an examination if hair loss is sharply patchy, continues after the scale settles, or comes with itching, pain, broken hairs, oozing or inflamed skin. Seek prompt care for fever, facial swelling, rapidly spreading redness or an infant who seems unwell.

Ask whether the scalp appearance fits cradle cap, how to soften and remove scales, and which cleanser is appropriate. Ask how to recognise infection or scalp ringworm and when sparse areas should be rechecked.