by Olaide Akande

Created on: September 04, 2009   Last Updated: September 28, 2009

Cradle cap is a scaly rash that affects the scalp of babies. It is the scalp form of the skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis. It is quite a common rash, affecting most babies within the first few months of life. Cradle cap appears as yellow-white scaling patches on a baby's head. A Similar rash may also be present on the back of the neck, behind the ears, face and diaper area.

Seborrheic dermatitis is thought to result from over activity of the oil producing glands of the body (sebaceous glands). This causes the waxy nature of the scales seen in cradle cap. Normally in all persons, the skin sheds off the topmost layer as new skin cells are formed. This old skin is shed off as scales but these scales are not normally visible. In seborrheic dermatitis however, the scales become visible because of this hyperactivity of the glands.

Cradle cap is mostly not a problem for the baby, as it is not itchy or associated with any discomfort. It will usually clear up on its own as the baby gets older. However it is quite understandable that most parents will seek treatment. Having your baby's cute little head covered with a rash isn't something you'd like to sit out.

You can decide to treat your baby's cradle cap by yourself using simple remedies or seek the help of your pediatrician. Treatment for cradle cap at home involves frequent washing and brushing of baby's hair. Wash your baby's hair with a mild shampoo as often as you wish. This will help loosen the scales. You may also consider rubbing some baby oil about 20minutes before shampooing.

The oil allows the scale soften, thus becoming easier to wash off. Some may argue against the case for using oil since the condition is thought to be associated with "excess oil". The key however is applying the oil before shampooing. Also if you are going to wash your baby's hair frequently, then some oiling is necessary to avoid excessive drying of the scalp.

Another option is to rub petroleum jelly on your baby's head overnight. Then first thing in the morning, use a soft brush to brush out the scales. I can tell you from experience that this works. It will also treat any accompanying dry scalp.

If your baby's cradle cap does not seem to be improving with the use of regular shampoos, you may consider consulting your pediatrician about using medicated shampoos. Examples of this are zinc pyrithione; the active ingredient in head& shoulders, selenium sulphide (Selsun blue) or ketoconazole (Nizoral). The downside however is that your baby will probably fret more during bath time, as these shampoos don't come mild. Be careful to avoid it getting into the eyes.

If using medicated shampoos, do not use more than two to three times a week. You will usually find this instruction on the back of each product as well as other information regarding proper use. Treatment for cradle cap may also include use of hydrocortisone cream. Your doctor may prescribe this if your baby's cradle cap is accompanied by some redness.

Treatment for cradle cap involves getting rid of the scales with shampooing, brushing off the scales, and treating any associated inflammation. Deciding to use your baby's shampoo or medicated ones is entirely up to you. Rest assured that with time, it will eventually clear even if nothing seems to be working.

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