What should you know about peeling off cradle cap?

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, usually appears as greasy or dry scale on the scalp and may extend to the hairline, behind the ears, or the eyebrows. It is not caused by poor hygiene. Scraping or picking can create tiny breaks that sting and allow irritation or infection. Scale can return after it loosens because the scalp needs time to settle.

Use a small amount of a baby-suitable emollient to soften the scale, then wash with a mild baby shampoo. During washing, massage with fingertips rather than nails. If a soft brush lifts flakes easily, stop when resistance is felt. Keep product away from the eyes and do not use essential oils, adult dandruff products, or medicated creams unless a clinician advises them. Wash gently and repeat the routine as needed rather than trying to clear every scale at once.

Ask for medical advice if the scalp is very red, swollen, wet, bleeding, cracked, foul-smelling, or painful, or if the baby has fever or seems unwell. Arrange an assessment when the rash spreads widely, affects the body, causes significant itch, or does not settle with gentle care. A clinician may consider another diagnosis or recommend a targeted treatment.

Ask which emollient is suitable for your baby, how long to leave it on, whether a medicated product is needed, and which signs would mean the scalp needs review.