Cradle Cap 101
Have you ever seen dry, flaky, or oily patches on a newborn’s scalp? Chances are they were experiencing cradle cap. Cradle cap is a common skin condition for babies between the ages of three to twelve months old. Today we are here to talk about all things cradle cap. We hope you enjoy this week’s blog, cradle cap 101.
What is cradle cap?
Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as cradle cap, is a common skin condition in newborns. It typically causes scaly and crusty skin marks on a newborn’s head. This skin condition is prevalent—seven out of ten babies experience cradle cap.
What causes cradle cap?
While there isn’t a definitive cause known, it is thought that cradle cap is caused by overactive oil glands on an infant’s head. When these begin to shed they cause cradle cap. Another theory of the cause is that babies keep some of their mother’s hormones in their bodies for a few weeks to a month after birth. It is thought that these hormones may make newborns’ glands more active, causing them to produce excess sebum, which in turn causes cradle cap.
Is it contagious?
No, cradle cap is not contagious.
What can you do to help treat it?
While cradle cap typically resolves on its own within a year, there are a couple of things that you can do to try and speed up the process. Here are a couple of tips and tricks to speed up the process of ridding cradle cap.
- Try brushing their scalp or head to remove and loosen any skin
- Wash your babies hair often with a gentle baby shampoo
- Brush your babies hair with a baby brush
- Try over the counter cradle cap lotions
It is important to remember that while cradle cap can be annoying, it typically resolves on its own. Cradle cap is very common! If you are concerned about your baby’s cradle cap a call to your pediatrician is recommended.
Thank you for reading this week’s blog, “cradle cap 101.” For more helpful tips on all things pregnancy, parenthood, and postpartum, visit our weekly blog.
