What should you know about persistent cradle cap?

Cradle cap commonly appears as yellow, white, or brown scale on the scalp. It can look oily, dry, or stuck to the skin, and it may extend to the eyebrows, behind the ears, or neck folds. Babies are usually otherwise well, and the condition is not caused by poor hygiene.

Scale that remains despite gentle care may reflect persistent seborrheic dermatitis, but redness, oozing, marked tenderness, or a rash beyond typical areas can point to another problem. A clinician can distinguish these patterns and check for infection or eczema.

Wash the scalp with a mild baby shampoo, then loosen scale with a soft brush or cloth only when it has softened. Do not scrape or pull attached flakes. A small amount of a bland emollient may help soften stubborn scale; see [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/) for the treatment concept.

Do not use adult dandruff products, essential oils, or medicated creams without advice. If the scale continues, a clinician may recommend a carefully selected antifungal treatment; [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) explains this treatment category.

Arrange a medical review if the scalp is very red, swollen, wet, bleeding, painful, or foul-smelling, or if the rash spreads quickly. Seek prompt advice if your baby has fever, seems unwell, feeds poorly, or develops reduced hair growth over affected areas.

Ask whether the appearance fits cradle cap, which cleanser and softening product are suitable, whether treatment is needed, how often to use it, and which changes should prompt another examination.