The first few months of a baby's life are full of discoveries and moments of happiness, but they can also be accompanied by little inconveniences, including the famous cradle cap. For many parents, these yellowish scabs on their little bundle of joy's scalp may seem worrying, but don't panic! In this article, we're going to demystify this phenomenon and give you all the tips you need to get rid of it gently.
What are cradle cap?
Cradle caps, medically known as seborrhoeic dermatitis, are scaly patches that form on the scalp of infants. They are caused by excess secretion of sebum, the natural oil produced by the skin, combined with dead skin cells.
Symptoms and Causes
Cradle cap usually appears as a yellowish or whitish crust, sometimes accompanied by redness or irritation. They can also appear on other parts of the body, such as the face, ears or eyebrows.
The exact causes of cradle cap are not fully understood, but it is thought to be linked to hormonal changes in the baby and an over-reaction of the skin's sebaceous glands.
How should cradle cap be treated?
Fortunately, cradle cap usually disappears on its own over time. However, there are a few things you can do to help manage them:
- Gentle shampoo: Gently wash baby's hair with baby milk crust shampoo. Avoid overly aggressive products that could further irritate your little one's sensitive skin.
- Gentle massage: Gently massaging baby's scalp with sweet almond oil or warm olive oil can help loosen and soften scabs, making them easier to remove.
- Fine-tooth comb: Use a fine-tooth comb to gently remove the softened crusts after massage. Be gentle and patient to avoid irritating your baby's delicate skin.
- Medical consultation: If the scabs persist or are accompanied by other symptoms such as severe itching, redness or sores, it is important to consult a paediatrician. It may be necessary to prescribe a specialised treatment to relieve baby's discomfort.
Cradle cap may seem worrying for new parents, but it's important to remember that it's generally benign and often disappears on its own over time. By following these simple tips and being attentive to your baby's needs, you can help manage this little inconvenience and make the most of the precious moments spent with your newborn.