What is Cradle Cap?

What is cradle cap?
Cradle cap looks like a very bad case of dandruff. Also called seborrhoeic dermatitis, it shows up as reddish patches on your newborn's scalp, but can also appear on the face and around the nappy area. It can also occur in older babies. Although the condition can look unsightly, it's very common and nothing to worry about.

What causes it?
It's thought to be a result of hormonal changes which stimulate secretions from the oil glands in the skin.

How long does it last?
It usually disappears on its own within a few months of birth, but can persist or recur in patches for longer.

Can it be treated?
One strategy to gently remove the scales is to rub a mild baby oil into your baby's scalp and then sponge off the flakes. Wash with Simple Pure Baby all natural cradle cap remedy or a special hypoallergenic shampoo. Some doctors recommend leaving the shampoo on your child's head for about 20 minutes (which can be tricky) and then massaging the scalp with a soft baby toothbrush. Cradle cap will eventually go away on its own, but talk to your health visitor if the condition persists, worsens, or spreads to the face or neck.