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What You Should Know About Cradle Cap

If you are a new parent, then you may be hearing about cradle cap and wondering what it is and if your baby has it. Cradle cap is a condition that causes a baby to have spots of yellow patches on their scalps where thicker skin will flake off, giving them what one would consider to be an extreme case of dandruff, along with a scalp that looks irritated. This article will offer you helpful information on cradle cap as well as information on some things that can be done to treat or possibly even prevent it.

What causes cradle cap?

Cradle cap is much like dandruff that's experienced by people of all ages. It isn't a contagious condition, and this means you won't have to worry about your baby 'catching' it if they have been exposed to another baby who has it. The exact cause of this condition is not known, but there are things that help with it.

Does cradle cap hurt the baby?

While cradle cap can look as if it is painful in some cases, it doesn't cause the baby to feel any pain or discomfort. It may bother the parents and others who look at it, but the baby won't be bothered from it.

Are there things that can be done at home to help treat cradle cap or prevent it?

Washing your baby's head regularly and brushing their hair with a soft baby brush can help get rid of cradle cap, and it is also the same things one can do to help decrease their baby's chances of getting it in the first place. Another home remedy that can help to clear up cradle cap is to put a small amount of breast milk on the baby's scalp and rub it in gently. Some people suggest applying a bit of baby oil on the baby's scalp, but the baby oil can be difficult to wash out of the baby's hair without leaving residue.

Do you need to take the baby to the doctor for cradle cap?

In most cases, regular washing and soft brushing will do the trick of getting rid of cradle cap in a short period of time. However, in some cases, babies can have extreme cradle cap. If your baby has a bad case of cradle cap that you aren't able to get rid of on your own, then you can take them in to see a doctor who offers pediatric services and they will be able to help.