Cradle cap is a common name for infantile seborrheic dermatitis. It is a common and harmless skin condition that normally affects babies between two to six months. It is also known as crusta lacteal, honeycomb disease and milk crust. It is characterized by a yellowish scaly skin rash on the scalp. The skin appears greasy, patchy and crusty. Normally it does not bother the baby since it is not itchy. It is very common and nearly half of the babies are affected sometime around the first three months. It is prominent near the ears, eyebrows or eyelids but may spread to face, armpits and buttocks. However, it is usually mild and severe manifestation is very rare. The exact cause is not known but it is believed that hormones released by the mother during the last stages of pregnancy overstimulation of the baby’s sebaceous glands. As in adults, infantile seborrheic dermatitis is caused by overactive sebaceous glands. The excess oil secreted by the glands eventually changes into crusty patches and flakes off. It may also be due to a fungal over growth in the scalp. Since the condition may get itchy at times and cause discomfort to the baby, it is better to use preventive measures.

When baby cradle cap occurs in places other than the scalp it is referred to as seborrheic dermatitis. It is wrong to believe that it is due to poor hygiene or an allergy. Some nutritional experts believe that the disorder is due to the inability of baby’s underdeveloped digestive system to absorb adequate biotin and other B vitamins.

Preventive measures include using a cradle cap shampoo meant for this specific condition. While choosing a shampoo for the baby, it should be kept in mind that the baby skin is too delicate to tolerate harsh chemicals in adult shampoos. It is advisable to check that the shampoo is mild or better still, choose one that contains only natural ingredients.

Cradle cap babies usually recover without any intervention but you can also help. Gently massage the affected areas with virgin almond oil or olive oil and let t remain for an hour before you give the baby his bath. Avoid picking flakes or try to remove stubborn patches. This may cause irritation, pain discomfort or even lead to an infection.

Any other type of cradle cap treatment should be avoided. The basic mantra of treating this condition is to keep the skin naturally clean. Shampoos containing steroids and tar have their drawbacks and antifungal shampoos are currently being made with ingredients that can irritate and cause allergies. Other products, especially immunosuppressive products are not approved for baby use.

If the eyelids are affected, they should be cleaned with diluted no-tears baby shampoo. The softened scales should be gently brushed away. Applying baking soda paste and letting it remain for 20 minutes will also help in softening the scales. Mothers can rest assured because cradle cap does not indicate any underlying illness.