15786 Cradle Cap Seborrheic Dermatitis In Infants
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Cradle cap is a common skin condition in babies that makes the scalp look greasy, scaly, and sometimes crusty. It is a type of seborrheic dermatitis, which is an inflammation of the skin that causes flaky patches. It is harmless and not caused by poor hygiene.
Key facts
- Cradle cap is very common and not a sign of a serious health problem.
- It is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from or give it to another baby.
- It usually appears in the first few weeks of life and typically clears on its own within a few months.
Yes, cradle cap is very common. It affects many babies, usually before six months of age, and most cases are mild.
Cradle cap most often appears in babies between two weeks and six months old. It can affect both boys and girls, and sometimes it appears again in later infancy.
Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- High fever or your baby is unusually floppy or difficult to wake
- Seizures or fits
- ⚠The skin around the scales becomes red, sore, swollen or weeps fluid – these could be signs of infection
- ⚠Yellow-brown crusts that spread quickly or look like honey-coloured scabs
- ⚠Your baby seems unwell, irritable, or is feeding poorly
- ⚠The rash spreads widely across the body
Common symptoms
- Greasy, yellowish or white scales on the scalp
- Crusty or flaky patches that may look like dandruff
- Mild redness underneath the scales
- Scales may also appear on the eyebrows, ears, nose, or in the nappy area
Symptoms in children
- In older children, the rash can look similar but is less common. It may be more itchy or sore if the skin is broken. If your child has these symptoms, it is a good idea to see your doctor.
Symptoms in older adults
- Cradle cap is a condition of infancy. Older adults may develop a similar flaking scalp condition called seborrheic dermatitis, but that is a separate situation. If you are an adult with a scaly, itchy scalp, ask your doctor for advice.
Causes
Main causes
- Overactive oil (sebaceous) glands in the baby's skin
- A yeast called Malassezia that lives on the skin and can cause irritation
- Hormones passed from the mother during pregnancy
- An immature skin barrier in young babies
Risk factors
- Family history of eczema, asthma, or allergies
- Naturally oily skin
- Hormonal changes in the baby
- Using harsh soaps or leaving oils on the scalp without proper washing
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If the skin looks infected (red, warm, weeping, or has honey-coloured crusts)
- If your baby has a fever or seems very unwell
Book a routine appointment if:
- If the cradle cap does not improve after a few weeks of gentle home care
- If it spreads beyond the scalp or becomes worse
- If you are worried about your baby's skin, feeding, or overall health
- If the rash seems painful or itchy for your baby
Diagnosis
A doctor or nurse can usually diagnose cradle cap by looking at your baby's scalp. No tests are needed.
Tests that may be done
- No tests are usually required.
What to expect at your appointment
Your health visitor or GP will examine the skin, ask how long the scales have been there, and give you advice on how to care for it. They may suggest a product to buy from the pharmacy, but they will explain this carefully.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on gentle daily washing and softening the scales. In most cases, no medical treatment is needed. If the rash is stubborn or uncomfortable, a healthcare professional can suggest a suitable over-the-counter cream or shampoo.
Self-care at home
- Wash your baby's scalp daily with a mild baby shampoo.
- Gently soften the scales with a small amount of baby oil, olive oil, or moisturiser, wait 10 to 15 minutes, then wash it off thoroughly.
- After washing, brush the scalp softly with a baby brush or a clean soft toothbrush to help lift the flakes.
- Never pick or scrape the scales – this can cause soreness or infection.
- Dry the scalp with a clean, soft towel and do not overdress your baby to avoid sweating.
Medical treatments
If cradle cap does not improve, a doctor may recommend a gentle antifungal cream or a medicated shampoo intended for babies. These are only used as directed by a healthcare professional. In rare cases, a low-strength steroid cream may be prescribed for inflammation – always follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
Living with this condition
Cradle cap can come and go over the first year. Keep a simple routine of gentle washing and soft brushing. It should not stop your baby from being bathed, hugged, or dressed normally.
Lifestyle tips
- Use gentle, fragrance-free baby products
- Keep your baby cool to avoid excess sweating
- Dry the scalp thoroughly after washing
- Trim your baby's fingernails to prevent scratching
Diet and exercise
No special diet is needed for cradle cap. Continue breastfeeding or using formula as usual. Gentle tummy time and normal baby play are fine.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Looking after a baby with a scaly scalp can be worrying for parents, especially if it doesn't clear quickly. Remember that cradle cap is harmless and temporary. If the worry is affecting you, talk to your health visitor or a trusted friend.
Prevention
It is not always possible to prevent cradle cap, but regular gentle washing of your baby's hair may help stop scales from building up.
Complications
If left untreated
- Cradle cap usually clears on its own without treatment.
- Occasionally, the skin may become infected if it is scratched or picked.
- Temporary loss of hair can happen in patches where the scales are thick, but hair usually grows back.
Long-term outlook
The outlook is excellent. Cradle cap is harmless and almost always disappears by the time the baby is one year old. With gentle care, it can be managed well until it goes away.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.