All about Cradle Cap



As the name suggests, cradle cap can only happen to infants or babies who have probably an overactive sebaceous glands. There is nothing alarming with this condition as this is a common occurrence. Its physical manifestation is a patchy, scaly and dry skin rash that appears on the scalp of newborn babies. This might not be contagious but sometimes will take a little longer to get rid of it.

The skin condition is not confined to the scalp alone. It can go down to the face, neck, ears, eyebrows, even in the armpits. This form of skin condition is also known as seborrheic dermatitis.

The cause of cradle is not known even to medical experts. They could only make presumptions that it is caused by an over production of oil in the sebaceous glands of the baby. The glands discharge an oily substance that could cause dead skin and oil to build up and attach to the scalp. They get dry and start to fall off. It can be said also that some babies have cradle cap not because of allergies or poor hygiene.

Further more it is not contagious and sometimes doesn’t bother the baby at all, although if severe it might itch.

Cradle cap can be treated by washing the baby’s scalp with mild shampoo. Do it frequently and brush gently the baby’s scalp with a brush or by using a terry cloth towel.

Never leave the shampoo on as this might clog the pores and cause the flakes to stick. Rinse well to help slash the oil.

There are some people who back the use of a baby oil or mineral oil. They believed that rubbing small amounts on the affected area can soften the scales and can then be easily removed. But if in spite of the proper measures the skin condition does not improve, your pediatrician might prescribe medicated shampoos.

Cradle cap we are made to understand is not a serious condition and it can be temporary. But if the skin conditions spread out to other areas of the body your pediatrician would know what is best. He or she might suggest an over the counter cortisone cream if the scalp is inflamed.

Once the skin condition improves and is completely gone, it is unlikely to happen again. But proper shampooing will help eradicate the cradle cap forever. But there is also a drawback. Over shampooing might further stimulate the baby’s oil-producing glands. So practice moderation. A gentle wash two or three times with a mild shampoo will do.

The newborn baby is fragile in its state. Extra care and protection should be provided. Love in its purest form can heal many a condition. A gentle touch can cure. Since conception to delivery, the baby should be afforded the security of the right medical protection you can bestow upon him or her. Even the simplest of skin conditions should not be taken for granted. The pediatrician should always be consulted if there are any developments on the health condition of the baby.