Skip to content

Cradle Cap

Make an Appointment

Our team is here to help you make an appointment with the specialists that you need.

Cradle Cap

Condition Basics

What is cradle cap?

Cradle cap is an oily, yellow scaling or crusting on a baby's scalp. It is common in babies and is easily treated. Cradle cap is not a part of any illness and does not imply that a baby is not being well cared for.

What causes it?

Cradle cap is the normal buildup of sticky skin oils, scales, and sloughed skin cells.

How is cradle cap treated?

Cradle cap is not harmful to your baby. It usually goes away by a baby's first birthday.

Home treatment is usually all that is needed for cradle cap.

  • An hour before shampooing, rub your baby's scalp with baby oil, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly to help lift the crusts and loosen scales.
  • When ready to shampoo, first get the scalp wet, then gently scrub the scalp with a soft-bristle brush (a soft toothbrush works well) for a few minutes to remove the scales. You can also try gently removing the scales with a fine-tooth comb.
  • Then wash the scalp with baby shampoo, rinse well, and gently towel dry.

Credits

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.