Cradle cap is a common skin condition that affects babies, usually during the first few months of life. It typically appears as greasy, yellow or brown scales and crusts on the scalp.

It can sometimes also affect the eyebrows, behind the ears or other areas of the skin.

Cradle cap is generally harmless, is not contagious and usually clears on its own over time.

What Does Cradle Cap Look Like?

Cradle cap can vary from mild flaking to thicker, oily crusts.

Common signs include:

• yellow, white or brown scales
• greasy or waxy patches on the scalp
• crusting
• mild redness underneath the scales
• areas of flaky skin
• changes in scalp colour

The condition usually does not cause pain or significant discomfort.

If your baby has very itchy, red or inflamed skin, another condition such as eczema may also be present. Read our Eczema guide for more information.

What Causes Cradle Cap?

The exact cause of cradle cap is not fully understood.

It is a type of seborrhoeic dermatitis that affects areas of the skin containing sebaceous glands, which produce natural oils.

Hormones passed from the mother to the baby before birth may temporarily stimulate these glands and cause them to produce more oil than usual.

This excess oil can cause dead skin cells to remain attached to the scalp instead of naturally shedding.

Cradle cap is not caused by:

• poor hygiene
• allergies
• washing your baby’s hair too little
• an infection
• something you have done wrong as a parent

You can find additional information about cradle cap from Pregnancy, Birth and Baby.

How Long Does Cradle Cap Last?

Cradle cap commonly appears during the first few weeks or months of life.

For many babies, it improves naturally within a few weeks or months without requiring medical treatment.

The appearance can sometimes come and go before disappearing completely.

If the condition becomes worse, persists for an unusually long time or spreads extensively, speak with your pharmacist or doctor.

How to Treat Cradle Cap at Home

Most cases can be managed gently at home.

Soften the Scales

You may be able to soften thick scales by gently massaging a small amount of suitable baby oil, mineral oil or petroleum jelly into the scalp.

Leave it on for a short period before washing the baby’s scalp.

Avoid leaving large amounts of oil on the scalp for long periods unless your healthcare professional recommends doing so.

Wash the Scalp Gently

Wash your baby’s hair and scalp using a mild baby shampoo.

Gently massage the scalp with your fingertips while washing.

Avoid using harsh shampoos, soaps or fragranced products that may irritate delicate skin.

Use a Soft Brush

Once the scales have softened, gently loosen them with a soft baby brush or fine-toothed comb.

Do not scrape or force the crusts from the scalp.

Picking at the scales may damage the skin and increase the risk of bleeding or infection.

If you are unsure which shampoo or skincare product is suitable for your baby, speak with your MediAdvice pharmacist.

What Should You Avoid?

When managing cradle cap, avoid:

• scratching or picking at the scales
• forcefully removing crusts
• using adult anti-dandruff shampoos unless recommended by a healthcare professional
• applying strong essential oils or fragranced products
• using medicated creams without appropriate advice

A baby’s skin is more delicate than adult skin, so products should always be suitable for infants.

Cradle Cap or Eczema?

Cradle cap and eczema can sometimes appear similar, particularly when they affect a baby’s scalp.

Cradle cap usually produces greasy or waxy scales and is often not very itchy.

Eczema is more likely to cause dry, itchy, red and inflamed skin and may also appear on the face or body.

Some babies may have both conditions.

You can read more about symptoms and management in our Eczema guide.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Most cradle cap does not require medical treatment.

However, speak with your doctor or healthcare professional if:

• the skin becomes very red or swollen
• the area begins to bleed
• the rash starts weeping or develops an unpleasant smell
• you notice pus or other signs of infection
• the condition spreads significantly beyond the scalp
• your baby appears uncomfortable or very itchy
• your baby has a fever or seems generally unwell
• the condition is not improving despite gentle home care

The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne also provides guidance for parents about cradle cap and when medical assessment may be needed.

Can Cradle Cap Be Prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent cradle cap.

Once it has improved, regular gentle washing of your baby’s scalp may help prevent a build-up of oil and scales.

Using a soft baby brush after washing can also help remove loose skin naturally.

Avoid over-washing or using harsh products, as these may irritate your baby’s scalp.

Caring for Your Baby’s Skin

Babies can experience a number of minor skin conditions during their first year.

Using mild, fragrance-free products and avoiding unnecessary irritants can help protect delicate skin.

If your baby also develops dry, red or sensitive skin, our Sensitive Skin guide provides more information about reducing irritation.

For other common changes during infancy, you may also find our Teething guide useful.

Speak With Your Pharmacist

Your MediAdvice pharmacist can provide general advice about cradle cap and help you choose gentle shampoos and skincare products suitable for your baby.

If the condition is severe, spreading, infected or not improving, your pharmacist may recommend that you speak with your GP or another healthcare professional.

General advice only: This information is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. If your baby’s symptoms are severe, persistent or concerning, seek professional medical advice.