What should you know about light cradle cap?

Cradle cap commonly causes greasy or dry flakes and thin yellowish or whitish scales on a baby's scalp. The skin may look mildly pink, but babies are often otherwise well and the area is not usually painful. It is not caused by poor hygiene, and ordinary contact does not spread it to other people.

Scaling can extend to the eyebrows, behind the ears, or skin folds. A clinician should check a rash that is very inflamed, wet, widespread, or unlike the usual scalp pattern because infection, eczema, or another condition can look similar.

Wash the scalp with a mild baby cleanser and soften stuck-on scale with the product your clinician recommends. A short period of gentle emollient care can loosen flakes before washing; use clean fingers or a soft brush and never scrape. Rinse thoroughly and keep products away from the eyes.

If scaling persists, a clinician may discuss Emollient Therapy or, when yeast-related inflammation is suspected, Topical Antifungal Treatment. Do not use adult dandruff products, essential oils, or medicated creams unless a healthcare professional has advised them for your baby.

Arrange a medical review if the scalp becomes very red, swollen, sore, cracked, weepy, foul-smelling, or rapidly spreads. Seek urgent advice if your baby seems unwell, develops fever, feeds poorly, or has a rash near the eyes. Scratching, hair loss in patches, or no improvement with gentle care also warrants assessment.

Ask whether the appearance fits cradle cap, which cleanser or emollient is suitable, how often to wash, and what signs would mean the skin is infected. If treatment is suggested, ask where to apply it, how long to use it, and how to protect the eyes and face.