Cradle cap, don’t worry: let’s see how to cure it

Cradle cap usually occurs on the scalp of newborns within the first 6 weeks of life, although in some cases it can appear later. It is a secretion (entirely natural) which then forms flakes similar to dandruff.

It is a seborrheic dermatitis that occurs on the scalp of newborn babies.

It is recognized because it is a greasy secretion which then results in small flakes similar to dandruff . The cause of the cradle cap is not yet clear but it is certainly not caused by infections, allergies or poor hygiene.

It is presumably due to an overactivity of the sebaceous glands in the skin of newborns, due to maternal hormones still circulating in the baby.

It is called cradle cap simply because, when it occurs in the first weeks of life of the newborn, this is still fed exclusively with milk.

Newborn predisposition to cradle cap

There are no more or less predisposed children and it generally resolves itself in a couple of weeks, while in others it can continue for 6-9 months, or last even longer.

How to prevent or treat cradle cap in the newborn

To prevent it, it would be useful to wash his head every day with a little specific shampoo (you can find it at the pharmacy) diluted in water and using a soft bristle brush.

If, on the other hand, it has already appeared before putting him to sleep, put a little specific baby oil on his little head (you can also find this at the pharmacy). The oil softens the flakes that will go away with the next day’s wash.

What to absolutely avoid

Absolutely avoid removing the scales with your nails (I know it’s a temptation, but avoid!): by removing them in this way, the scales continuously form again.

Since cradle cap is generally located on the scalp in the fontanelle area , be careful not to apply pressure. Always use a soft bristle comb.