Cradle cap/ Seborrhea

Definition

• Yellow scales and crusts attached to the scalp
• the scalp can be greasy or dry
• not itchy or painful
• begins in the first 2 to 6 weeks of life
  
• usually gone by 6 months of age [ have seen till 9 months too]

Cause

• cause is unknown
• not caused by poor hygiene
• cradle cap is not contagious
• if redness occurs behind ears, in body creases [armpit, groin & neck] and in the diaper area then cradle cap is part of seborrheic dermatitis

Expected course

• without treatment can last for months
• with treatment clears in few weeks

Home care

• two or three times a week , massage in dots of baby oil to scalp[olive oil, baby oil]
  
• then brush / comb baby's hair followed by hair wash
  
• you may need to use Neutragena T-Gel shampoo [it hurts eyes]
• for redness, bumps and flakiness on the face , use 0.5% hydrocortisone three times a day