Cradle Cap in Newborns: What Every Parent Needs to Know

As a mom of three and a Registered Nurse, I know firsthand how concerning it can be when you notice changes in your baby’s delicate skin. One of the most common issues new parents encounter is cradle cap—also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis. While it can look uncomfortable, rest assured that cradle cap is generally harmless and treatable.

What is Cradle Cap?

Cradle cap is a skin condition that primarily affects the scalp of newborns, although it can also appear on the eyebrows, eyelids, or even behind the ears. It often shows up in babies under six months and tends to resolve by 12 months. The condition is caused by a normal skin yeast, Pityrosporum ovale, which thrives in oil-rich areas of the skin. The body’s response to this yeast causes inflammation, leading to flaking and yellowish scales on the baby’s scalp.

Is Cradle Cap Serious?

No, cradle cap is not a serious condition. It’s not contagious, nor is it caused by poor hygiene. However, if left untreated, the affected areas can sometimes become irritated or infected. The good news is that cradle cap usually clears up on its own and can be managed with simple home care.

Who’s at Risk?

Cradle cap most commonly affects newborns and babies under six months old, though it can persist until a baby’s first birthday. In rare cases, more severe forms of cradle cap could be linked to underlying conditions, such as a weakened immune system (immunodeficiency). If you notice an especially severe or persistent case, it’s a good idea to consult your healthcare provider.

Signs & Symptoms of Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is easy to spot. Here are some typical signs and symptoms to watch for:

• Oily flakes or scales: White, yellow, or oily skin flakes can form on your baby’s scalp.

• Thick, crusty patches: In more severe cases, the scalp may have thick yellow or brown crusts.

• Discoloration: You may notice patches of red, purplish, or brown skin around the hairline, forehead, or ears. In babies with darker skin, these patches might appear lighter (hypopigmented).

• Itchiness: While it’s not always itchy, some babies may show signs of discomfort.

How to Treat Cradle Cap at Home

For most babies, cradle cap can be easily treated at home. Here’s how you can manage it:

Use creams to bring back moister and make the flakes easier to remove while bathing your baby: Apply a small amount of cream - I like to use two kinds with my kids, that helped us and lots of my postpartum patients during the years: Mustela Stelatopia and the Tubby Todd products.

When using the Mustela Stelatopia apply it to the scalp 1 hour before bath time, then wash baby's hair with their foam shampoo that helps the flakes come off easily, Mustela Stelatopia. The Tubby Todd products are great and they are also specific for cradle cap - there is a special Gel you use on the scalp and also a silicone sponge that helps remove the flakes.

You can get a special silicone sponge separately, I like the Frida Baby's one. Those silicone brushes are really gentle on baby's scalp and don't pull out hair or make the experience uncomfortable.

If there is a fungus infection involved, your pediatrician will advice you to use special creams but before you can try adding over-the-counter creams like antifungal creams (clotrimazole or miconazole) or hydrocortisone to help reduce inflammation and yeast growth, if the shampoo isn’t effective. These should be used sparingly and only if necessary.

When to See a Doctor

If cradle cap doesn’t respond to home treatments or becomes worse, it’s important to consult your pediatrician. You should also seek medical advice if:

• The affected area becomes red, swollen, or oozes pus—these could be signs of infection.

• Your baby develops a fever.

• Cradle cap spreads to other parts of the body or becomes more severe.

In some cases, your child’s doctor may recommend a prescription shampoo or a mild corticosteroid cream if the skin is inflamed.

Cradle cap is common, and as a mom of three, I can tell you it’s nothing to be overly concerned about. The key is gentle care, patience, and monitoring for any signs of infection. Most babies outgrow cradle cap by the time they turn one, and with a few simple treatments, you can help keep your baby comfortable.

If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Sources:

1. Bolognia J, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L. Dermatology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018.

2. James WD, Elston D, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA. Andrew’s Diseases of the Skin. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019.

3. Paller A, Mancini A. Hurwitz Clinical Pediatric Dermatology. 6th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2022.

4. Kang S, Amagai M, Bruckner AL, et al. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology. 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education; 2019.