Annie Zimmer, M.D.
Cradle cap is a common skin condition on a baby's scalp during the first couple of months of life. It can appear as red patches with oily, yellow scales or crusts on the scalp. This is caused by hormones from the mother to the placenta during pregnancy. Oil glands in the skin become overactive and release extra oil, causing dead skin cells to accumulate and stick on the skin. Cradle cap is harmless and will eventually disappear but it may cause slight discomfort for your baby. Boys Town Pediatrics offers parents recommendations to take care of their baby's scalp care needs.
If the cradle cap is itchy and is bothering your infant, try the following techniques below to care for your baby's needs.
Cradle cap will eventually go away between 6–12 months of age and usually doesn't cause any symptoms of pain or itching. If the cradle cap lasts more than 12 months or the rash spreads beyond the scalp, contact your pediatrician.