Cradle cap, medically known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a common condition in infants that causes rough, scaly crusts to appear on the baby's scalp. Usually the condition resolves on its own after a few weeks, but in some cases it persists and requires treatment. Read on to find out how to treat cradle cap using home remedies and to know when you need to seek medical help.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using Home Remedies
Step 1. Remove the scales with your finger
Your baby's scalp won't hurt if you use your hands to remove the crusts. This is the simplest way, and one of the most effective, to deal with the dry scales and crusts that appear when your baby has cradle cap.
- Rub your finger against the scaly crust, then gently peel or remove the scaly dead skin and discard.
- If you don't want to use your fingers to remove scales, wear light latex gloves (as long as your baby isn't allergic to latex). You can also cover your hands with a plastic glove so they don't touch the scales directly. Remember that cradle cap is not contagious, and removing the scales will make your baby feel more comfortable.
- Do not use tweezers or other sharp tools to remove the scales, as you could accidentally touch your baby's skin and hurt him.
Step 2. Wash baby's head every day
Use warm water to wash the baby's head, and gently massage his scalp with your fingers. The water will help loosen the cradle cap scales, which you can then peel or remove.
- Using a gentle baby shampoo can help loosen scales, so you should consider that when washing your baby's head. However, you may also find that shampoo makes your baby's scalp drier.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to help loosen the scales while the baby's head is still wet.
Step 3. Use oil and jelly
Sometimes cradle caps need a little outside help before you can peel them off. Apply baby oil or petroleum jelly to the dry crust, then wait 15 minutes for the scales to soften before you remove them.
- Olive oil and vegetable oil also work well for removing scales.
- Use shampoo and warm water to wash off the oil after you're done. The remaining oil residue can actually make the problem worse because it causes more scales to form.
Method 2 of 3: Applying Tried Medical Solutions
Step 1. Use an anti-dandruff treatment shampoo
When the cradle cap keeps coming back after a few days of you removing it, switching to a medicated shampoo several times a week may be an effective solution. Anti-dandruff shampoo contains tar, which reduces flakes and helps prevent dry skin.
- Shampoos containing the antifungal treatment ketoconazole or 1 percent selenium sulfide can also be used to treat cradle cap.
- Anti-dandruff shampoos containing salicylic acid are not recommended for babies, as this ingredient can be harmful to babies and is easily absorbed through their skin.
- Talk to your doctor before using any medicated shampoo on your baby's scalp. The doctor will recommend a shampoo brand or prescribe a shampoo that suits your baby's needs.
Step 2. Consider using a hydrocortisone cream
If your baby's scalp is inflamed, red or itchy, hydrocortisone cream, which is also used to treat rashes and insect bites, may help relieve cradle cap symptoms. Check with your doctor before using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.
Method 3 of 3: Taking Preventive Measures
Step 1. Moisturize your home
Babies with cradle cap often have other symptoms associated with dry, irritable skin. Use a humidifier or humidifier in your baby's room to keep the humidity in so the skin doesn't dry out too much.
Step 2. Moisturize baby's scalp after bathing
Applying moisturizer while your scalp is still slightly damp and warm after a shower will help lock the moisture in your skin, and prevent it from becoming dry and flaky. Use a lotion or ointment formulated for baby's sensitive skin.
Step 3. Consider the baby's intake
In some cases, cradle cap is caused by an allergy to infant formula. If your baby has red patches on his face and has diarrhea or other allergy symptoms in addition to cradle cap, talk to your doctor about switching to a healthier formula for your baby.
Tips
- Preventing soap and water from getting into your eyes will make your baby more comfortable.
- Brushes for baby's scalp are very effective. These brushes are very soft and can be purchased in the baby section of most stores.
Warning
- Be careful not to force too much when the baby's "soft parts" are on the scalp.
- Be very gentle with your baby.
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot. You can check with your elbow: if it feels too hot for your elbow, then it is too hot for your baby.
