What are the symptoms of cradle cap?
The main symptoms of cradle cap include:
- Yellow or white crusty patches on the scalp
- Flaky skin that may look greasy
- Possible mild redness of the skin underneath the patches
- In some cases, cradle cap can appear on other areas, like behind the ears and eyebrows
What causes cradle cap?
The exact cause of cradle cap is not fully known, but it may be related to factors such as:
- Overactive oil glands in the skin
- Hormones passed from mother to baby during pregnancy
- Yeast or fungus that is normally found on the skin
How common is cradle cap?
Cradle cap is very common and affects many babies, usually starting in the first few months of life. It often clears up by the time the child is one year old.
Who is more likely to get cradle cap?
While cradle cap can affect any baby, it may be more common in:
- Babies with parents or siblings who had cradle cap
- Babies with oily skin or other skin conditions
How can I treat cradle cap?
Cradle cap usually goes away on its own, but you can help by:
- Gently washing the scalp with a mild baby shampoo
- Using a soft brush or cloth to help remove scales after washing
- Applying a small amount of baby oil or coconut oil to moisturise the skin
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How to prevent cradle cap?
While there is no sure way to prevent cradle cap, keeping your baby’s scalp clean and moisturised may help reduce the risk.
Final thoughts
Cradle cap is a common and usually harmless condition that many babies experience. If you have any concerns about your baby’s skin or health, speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
