Cradle cap, also known as neonatal seborrheic dermatitis, is a rash that presents with signs of peeling that form greasy whitish or yellowish crusts. Although it is mostly located on the scalp, it can also occur in other areas of the body, including the ears, nose, eyelids and groin. Doctors believe it is the consequence of an overproduction of sebum by the sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It can also be caused by a saprophytic yeast, Malassezia furfur, which lives on the scalp. It is not contagious, is not caused by an allergy and generally does not cause itching. It is not dangerous and usually resolves spontaneously within a few weeks or months, but some steps can be taken to speed up healing.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Treating the Milky Crust at Home
Step 1. Apply a small amount of mineral oil, baby oil or petroleum jelly to the flaky areas
Leave on for 15 minutes. In this way you will soften the crust making it easier to remove.
- Since chemicals can be absorbed by the body, even by the scalp, carefully read the instructions of the product you have decided to use to make sure it does not cause contraindications for your child.
- Don't forget to rinse off the oil or petroleum jelly, otherwise the scabs will become sticky and won't peel off naturally.
- Coconut oil and shea butter are natural remedies that you can apply in the same way.
- Do not use olive oil because it can promote the development of fungi, including Malassezia, making the problem of cradle worse.
- Rinse the oil off with warm water.
Step 2. Wash the baby's head with a mild baby shampoo to remove the scabs and the product applied
By doing this, you will also eliminate any residual sebum which, accumulated on the scalp, imprisons dead skin cells, favoring the formation of scales.
- While shampooing, gently massage your scalp to soften the crusts. You can use your fingers, a towel or a baby brush with soft bristles. Do not scrub vigorously, or you may irritate it.
- Do not use dandruff shampoo as it contains chemicals not suitable for children, which can be absorbed by the skin causing severe irritation.
- Rinse thoroughly to avoid irritation and, if necessary, repeat the treatment every day.
Step 3. Remove loose crusts from the scalp using a soft bristle brush
Some hairs will probably come off as well, but it will grow back. Do not scratch the scales, otherwise they could develop wounds that risk becoming infected.
After the bath, you should brush off the scabs once you have dried the baby. If they are wet, they stick to the hair
Part 2 of 3: Cleanse the Scalp with Natural Remedies
Step 1. Make a mild disinfectant with natural ingredients, such as apple cider vinegar or baking soda
It will help you prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Combine 1 part of apple cider vinegar with 2 parts of water. Massage the solution into the cradle cap. Leave it on for 15 minutes or until it dries. It will help you break down and soften the scales.
- Make a paste of baking soda and water. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of baking soda with the same amount of water. Dab the mixture on the infected area and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Do not apply vinegar or baking soda to wounds and skin lacerations as they may itch. In these cases, consult your pediatrician.
Step 2. Remove the scabs and scales with a fine-toothed comb
Gently comb against the hair to gently lift and remove loose crusts.
- You may want to use a lice comb. Thin, narrow teeth will catch even the smallest debris.
- Do not scratch the scabs still attached to the scalp, otherwise you risk hurting the baby.
Step 3. Shampoo to remove any residual apple cider vinegar or baking soda
Be careful not to get these substances into the baby's eyes when rinsing.
Use a mild shampoo designed for baby's sensitive skin
Part 3 of 3: Know When To See Your Pediatrician
Step 1. See your pediatrician if self-medication treatments are not helpful or if your child's condition worsens
Symptoms that indicate the need to take him to the pediatrician include:
- Symptoms of infection, such as bleeding, purulent discharge under the scales, severe redness, pain, and fever
- Inflammation and severe itching that force the child to scratch. They can also indicate another skin condition called eczema;
- Cradle cap spread to other areas of the body, especially the face.
Step 2. Follow the prescribed therapy
If the cradle cap becomes infected, is very inflamed, or causes severe itching, your pediatrician may prescribe one or more of the following treatments to treat the infection and relieve inflammation:
- Antibiotics;
- Antifungal cream;
- Tar-based dandruff shampoos, antifungal drugs, such as ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide;
- Gentle acting steroid cream, for example with 1% hydrocortisone.
Step 3. Avoid using over-the-counter medications without consulting your pediatrician first
Steroid creams, antifungal medications, and dandruff shampoo containing salicylic acid can be absorbed into the skin putting the baby's health at risk. In some cases, your pediatrician may recommend a steroid cream or antifungal, but always follow their instructions.
- Never apply salicylic acid-based dandruff shampoo to children.
- Consult your pediatrician even before using a natural remedy with medicinal properties, such as calendula. Calendula is antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, but you need to seek your doctor's advice before giving it to a newborn.
Warnings
- Tea tree oil can be toxic and trigger allergies in some people, so it is not suitable for infants.
- Be wary of home remedies based on nut or egg white oils as they can cause allergic reactions.
