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.
Also check the baby’s nails and, if necessary, file them gently so that they do not scratch and could therefore cause small infections.
Kathryn Barlow is an OB/GYN doctor, which is the medical specialty that deals with the care of women's reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth.
Obstetricians provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, while gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breasts. OB/GYN doctors are trained to provide medical and surgical care for a wide range of conditions related to women's reproductive health.