Search results
- DictionaryCra·dle cap/ˈkrādl kap/
noun
- 1. a skin condition sometimes seen in babies caused by excessive production of sebum, characterized by areas of yellowish or brownish scales on the top of the head.
Powered by Oxford Languages
Yahoo Web Search
Cradle cap
Cradle cap causes crusty or oily scaly patches on a baby's scalp. The condition isn't painful or itchy. But it can cause thick white or yellow scales that aren't easy to remove.
Cradle cap usually clears up on its own in weeks or a few months. Home care measures include washing your baby's scalp daily with a mild shampoo. This can help you loosen and remove the scales. Don't scratch cradle cap.
If cradle cap doesn't stop or seems serious, your baby's doctor or other health care professional may suggest a medicat...
When to seek medical or mental health expertAlways seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the community.Common symptoms of cradle cap include:
- Patchy scaling or thick crusts on the scalp.
- Oily or dry skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales.
- Skin flakes.
- Mild inflammation.
Similar scales also may be present on the ears, eyelids, nose and groin.
Cradle cap is common in newborns. It usually isn't itchy.
Cradle cap is the common term for infantile seborrheic derm...
The cause of cradle cap isn't known. One factor may be hormones that pass from the mother to the baby before birth. These hormones can cause oil glands and hair follicles to make too much oil. This oil is called sebum.
Another factor may be a fungus called malassezia (mal-uh-SEE-zhuh) that grows in the sebum along with bacteria. Antifungal treatments often help control symptoms. This supports the idea that malassezia is a cause. An example of an antifungal treatment is ketoconazole....
Cradle cap may not need medical treatment, as it often goes away if you use the home care tips below. If these home care tips don't work, talk with your baby's doctor about products that might help, such as a low-potency hydrocortisone cream or a shampoo with 2% antifungal ketoconazole medicine. Be sure the shampoo doesn't get in your baby's eyes, as it may hurt.
If you want to try the type of cortisone or antifungal creams you can buy at the store without a prescription, talk wit...
Shampooing your baby's hair every few days can help prevent cradle cap. Use a baby shampoo unless your baby's doctor or other health care professional suggests a stronger product.
For informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
© Mayo Clinic
Also Search for
Seborrheic dermatitis Contact dermatitis Atopic dermatitis (eczema) Poison ivy rash
