Cradle
cap is the name given to the yellow, greasy scab like skin found on some
newborns and infants heads, it can also extend to the eyebrows. The medical
term for this condition is “Infantile Seborrhoeic Dermatitis “ This may start as a reddened looking scaly
rash which if left untreated becomes a thick yellow coating.
The exact
cause of this is not clear but there are links which suggest that this may be
an inflammatory response to yeast, and that maternal hormones may play a part
in this. Babies affected by this condition should not be exposed to scented
soaps and other scented products. A good, mild, unscented baby shampoo and
regular brushing with a soft baby brush may be all that is required to clear
this condition.
The more
severely affected infants can be treated by using an emollient or a mineral oil
massaged into the affected areas, left for 30 minutes and shampooed off.
Mineral oil is not generally used on infant skin because it is not absorbed.
Nut oils should be avoided because this can generate sensitivity, and olive oil
would be inappropriate because it can proliferate yeast if it is left for any
time on the skin surface. Which ever oil is used it MUST be washed off between
treatments.
Using a
soft baby brush to remove loosened scales is much better, and much more gentle,
than picking them off. Picking can cause damage to the skin and to the hair
follicles.
If the
scales have an offensive smell then there may be a secondary infection which
will require treatment with either topical anti-fungal or anti bacterial
therapy.
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