Cradle Cap In Newborns: The Right Way To Manage It
Have you noticed a thick layer of scaly build-up on your newborn’s scalp? It’s what is known as the cradle cap. And have you ever wondered why the word cap is added to denote the condition? It’s due to the pattern in which these scales usually form, just as a baby would wear a cap.
Cradle cap is a prevalent yet harmless condition in babies between 2 weeks to 12 months.1 Apart from the scalp, the condition may affect other parts of their bodies too.2
Even though the cradle cap goes away by the time babies reach their 1st birthday,2 it’s common for us as parents to think of ways to resolve the condition quickly. It sometimes also makes us worry and makes us wonder what we did wrong when we see a condition like this affect our babies.
So read on to learn more about cradle cap in newborns. And discover practical ways to help your baby get rid of the condition quickly.
Cause & Symptoms Of Cradle Cap
Scientists aren’t very sure what causes the cradle cap. But they do propose several causative factors such as:
- Mother’s hormones which pass on from the placenta to the baby.
- Excessive oil production that causes the skin cells to clump and stick instead of shedding
- Growth of certain yeast that’s a natural baby-skin dweller. However, the exact mechanism of how this happens is still not so clear.2
The first symptom that you notice is the development of scaly patches on your baby’s scalp. They’re like flakes, sometimes dry & at other times greasy. These aren’t generally itchy or cause discomfort to your baby. Sometimes the little ones don’t even seem to notice it.2
Occasionally, the scales may form in areas beyond the baby’s scalp such as:2
- Baby’s eyebrows
- Their forehead.
- Folds of their arms or necks.
- Behind their ears.
- In their diaper area.
These scales can take the appearance of crusts or flakes & can be accompanied by a rash that’s reddish or pinkish. Sometimes the rash may be darker than the usual skin colour if the baby’s complexion is dark.2
How Is Cradle Cap Diagnosed?2
A simple visual examination by a doctor can help identify if the baby has a cradle cap. The typical features and location of the scales are clear cues to make a diagnosis. No additional medical tests or biopsies are required.2
After a confirmatory diagnosis, treatment must follow. Continue reading to find out how that’s possible.
Treatment Of Cradle Cap2
Generally, the diagnosis of cradle cap is not a thing of concern. But persistent itching & scratching may sometimes result in the development of bacterial infections.3
As a parent or caregiver, you can adopt the following steps to get rid of your baby’s cradle cap:
Skin Softening
You can use a natural emollient such as baby oil or petroleum jelly. These can be applied by massaging, soaking and softening the crusts so that on washing they come off easily. The oil can be applied a few hours or a night before washing the hair.2
Scalp Cleansing
The next step is gentle cleansing of your baby’s head using a soft cloth or a baby comb. Try to loosen the scales gently with your fingers so that they come off easily while washing. Ensure not to rub harshly while doing so.2
Use a gentle scalp cleanser like AreoVeda’s Head-To-Toe Foam Wash, which is composed of 97.9% natural ingredients such as Aloe Vera & Sweet Almond Oil. It’s a gentle, tear-free, antimicrobial foam wash that leaves your baby squeaky clean from top to toe.
Avoiding Picking/Scratching
It may feel tempting to scratch off those flakes from your baby’s head. But think twice before doing so. Because if you bruise these sites, they might become vulnerable to infections.2
Conclusion
So mums & dads, while it may look quite concerning, that cradle cap in newborns is not harmful for your little one. And with the tips mentioned above, we’re sure that you’ll be able to manage it effectively.
But make sure that If the condition doesn’t improve after the baby reaches the 12-month mark, you must see a baby dermat for the same!
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
FAQs
Q1. How Can We Tackle Cradle Cap In Newborns?
Use a gentle cleanser to clean your baby’s hair once daily. If scales don’t come off easily, use baby oil or petroleum jelly to soak & help loosen them.2
Q2. What Leads To Cradle Cap In Newborns?
Cradle cap may be caused due to maternal hormones, excess oil production or fungal growth.2
Q3. How To Deal With Cradle Cap?
Before washing your baby’s hair, soak their scalp in baby oil & then shampoo it off.2
Q4. Does Cradle Cap Pose Harm To My Baby?
No, generally it isn’t harmful or even annoying for that matter to babies.1
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