Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a harmless skin condition which is present when there are oily, yellowish scales or crusted patches on the scalp of an infant. It may be seen in infants as young as 4 months of age. While it is usually only present on the scalp, it may also be present on the forehead, eyebrows and behind the ears.

The best treatment for this is to use an anti-dandruff shampoo, such as Head and Shoulders or Selsun Blue, once or twice weekly, taking care to avoid getting it in the eyes. An alternate treatment is to rub baby oil or olive oil into the scalp, allow it to remain there for ten minutes, remove the scales with a fine toothed comb, and then shampoo the hair.

If signs of infection, such as redness or a hard, yellow-brown scabbing crust should occur, it will be necessary to call the office for an appointment to have your child checked.