Cradle Cap~ a natural, at-home treatment

More often than not, babies will develop a condition commonly called Cradle Cap, or Seborrhoeic dermatitis. According to medical professionals, it is very common, and is not necessarily linked to an infection or poor hygiene.

Rather, Cradle Cap is the result of overactive oil glands in the scalp, and may be related to the baby's mother’s hormones still circulating in the child after birth. As skin cells renew themselves, the dead cells fall off. In the case of Cradle Cap, cells are renewing themselves faster than they shed, so the dead cells get trapped under new skin.

The condition can range from mild to extreme, and may even move from the scalp down into the eyebrows. Scales are yellow, crusty, greasy patches, often itchy and irritating. Cradle Cap usually appears when baby reaches 3 months of age, and disappears by their first birthday. It can remain for longer and may even re-appear later in life.

An at-home, natural treatment:

Should Cradle Cap appear on your baby’s scalp or eyebrows, dab the area with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and let sit for at least one hour. Olive Oil is an excellent choice as it has a thick, slippery texture. It tends not to absorb as quickly as some other vegetable-based oils, allowing it to sit on the scalp, or Cradle Cap, longer and do its work. It also does not clog pores, allowing the skin to breathe, unlike a petroleum-based mineral oil. The best part~ it is natural and edible, so if baby rubs their head and their hand heads straight for their mouth...it is o.k.!

Once Cradle Cap scales are softened, use a fine-toothed baby comb or soft-bristled baby brush and gently comb through the hair to scrape off the cradle cap. Massaging the area in a circular motion with a damp washcloth is also very effective and a little more gentle.

Once the area is clear, wash baby’s hair as normal using a mild, unscented shampoo. Shampoos that contain fragrance or foaming agents may irritate the skin further, particularly if baby suffers from infant eczema or allergies. Try to avoid washing baby’s hair too often. Once per week is usually sufficient, unless they are experimenting with food that ends up in their hair...and everywhere else!

Repeat this home treatment once a week, or as needed. You may need to seek a professional's help in initially diagnosing the skin condition, particularly if the Cradle Cap is not improving over time.

References and further reading:

WebMD.com: Cradle Cap-Topic Overview
Seborrheic dermatitis: an overview. Schwartz RA - Am Fam Physician - 1-JUL-2006

copyright Jen Casey, 2009