Treatment for Infected Cradle Cap

Cradle cap, also called infantile seborrheic dermatitis, commonly produces greasy or dry scale on a baby’s scalp. Infection is more concerning when the skin becomes increasingly red, swollen, warm, sore, wet, or develops pus, an unpleasant smell, or spreading crusts. Scratching can damage the surface and allow germs to enter. A clinician should check whether the changes are infection, irritation, or another scalp condition.

Keep the scalp clean with a gentle baby cleanser and use soft handling. A clinician may recommend emollient therapy to loosen scale before washing; never pick flakes or use adult dandruff products without advice. If yeast contributes, a topical antifungal treatment may be selected for the baby’s age and skin. Use only the product, amount, and schedule advised, and keep it away from the eyes and mouth.

Contact a clinician promptly for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, bleeding, fever, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness, or a baby who seems in pain. Urgent assessment is appropriate when the baby appears seriously unwell or the scalp changes are spreading quickly. Do not wait for routine moisturising to settle these signs.

Ask whether the scalp is infected, which cleanser or emollient is suitable, and whether an antifungal is needed. Ask how to apply it safely and which changes should trigger a same-day call.