Home remedies for cradle cap

Cradle cap is a common form of infantile seborrheic dermatitis. It can look like greasy yellow or white scales on the scalp, sometimes with mild redness. It is not caused by poor hygiene and usually does not bother the baby, although vigorous rubbing can make the skin sore. Scales may also appear around the eyebrows or behind the ears.

Massage a small amount of a plain, fragrance-free emollient onto the scalp, leave it briefly to soften the scale, and brush only what lifts easily with a soft baby brush. Wash out the product with mild shampoo and rinse well. Keep oils away from the eyes, nose, and mouth, and stop any product that causes redness. Do not use essential oils, adult dandruff products, medicated creams, or harsh scrubbing without professional advice. Emollient Therapy may be suggested when scaling is persistent.

Contact a clinician if the scalp is very red, swollen, wet, bleeding, cracked, painful, or foul-smelling, or if the rash spreads and the baby seems unwell. Seek advice when hair loss occurs in patches or home care does not improve the scale. A clinician can distinguish cradle cap from infection and decide whether Topical Antifungal Treatment is appropriate.

Does this look like cradle cap or another rash? Which emollient and shampoo are suitable for my baby's age? What should I do if the skin becomes weepy or inflamed?