White cradle cap on a baby’s scalp

Cradle cap commonly appears as dry, greasy, or flaky scale on the scalp and may extend to the hairline, eyebrows, or behind the ears. It often causes little discomfort, unlike an infection or eczema flare that may be intensely itchy, sore, wet, or cracked. White scale can be more noticeable when the scalp is dry, but colour alone cannot confirm the cause. A clinician should review a rash that is widespread, inflamed, or unlike the child’s usual pattern.

Wash the scalp with a mild baby cleanser, then use a soft brush to loosen only scale that lifts easily. For stubborn scale, a clinician may suggest a suitable emollient therapy to soften it before washing. Never scratch, pick, or scrape the scalp, and avoid fragranced oils or adult dandruff products unless specifically advised. If inflammation or yeast-related scaling is suspected, a clinician may recommend topical antifungal treatment with infant-appropriate instructions. Keep products away from the eyes and stop if the skin becomes more irritated.

Contact a clinician if the scalp is bleeding, oozing, swollen, hot, painful, strongly itchy, or develops an unpleasant smell. Seek prompt care if the baby seems unwell, has fever, feeds poorly, or the rash spreads quickly. Review is also sensible when gentle care does not improve the scale or when hair loss occurs in patches.

Ask whether the pattern fits cradle cap or another rash, which cleanser and moisturiser are suitable, and how long to use any recommended treatment. Ask which signs mean the scalp needs reassessment.