Cradle cap is very common. If your baby's scalp has flaky, dry skin that looks like dandruff, or even thick, oily, yellowish
or brown scaling or crusting patches, it's most likely cradle cap.
Cradle cap is harmless it shows up in the first few months of life, and it usually clears up on its own in about six to
12 months, although it is not uncommon of some babies to have it for several years.
Causes
The cause of cradle cap seems to be unknown but debated. What is known for sure is that it is not caused by
poor hygiene or allergies and it's not contagious. It probably doesn't bother your baby at all, although if it gets
severe it might itch.
Treatment
You don't really need to do anything, but if it bothers you, try shampooing more frequently and gently brushing your baby's
scalp with a soft brush or a terrycloth towel. Some parents find that rubbing olive oil into the scalp and leaving it for
15 mins before washing it out can help to lessen the problem.
If you are worried about it or it spreads beyond the scalp speak to your G.P. about it there are medications on the market
that can alleviate the problem.
