Seborrheic dermatitis in babies, commonly known as cradle cap, is a skin condition that will always zap parents into a panic. As serious as it may seem, it really isn’t something you should worry too much about because a cradle cap is fairly common for newborns, with plenty of treatments available.
This article dives into what a cradle cap is, its causes, and the options you have for treatment and prevention.
What Exactly is a Cradle Cap?
Cradle cap is described as seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff for infants. It’s characterized by flaky, scaly, dry crusts on your newborn’s head. It can also sometimes extend around your baby’s ears, eyebrows, and eyelids. In severe cases, it can even cause creases in the upper chest area.
A cradle cap shows up in your baby’s first few months after birth. Fortunately, they often clear up in a year or less.
What Causes Cradle Caps
Contrary to popular belief, cradle caps don’t stem from allergies or poor hygiene. In fact, the reasons why babies get cradle caps are still largely unknown. One popular theory for this condition’s cause is overactive oil glands being over-stimulated by hormones from the mother during the final stages of pregnancy. The resulting secretions from these glands are thought to make the skin cells on your baby’s head stick to their scalp.
What Are Possible Treatments for Cradle Cap?
Regardless of its causes, cradle caps are thankfully harmless and very rarely cause discomfort for your newborn. While cradle cap normally doesn’t require treatment, we’ve provided a few options you can try in order to minimize its effects.
- Gently remove the scaly skin by regularly washing your baby’s hair with a mild-formulated shampoo like Moringa-O2 Herbal Shampoo with Argan Oil. This should soften and loosen the flakes, making it easy to brush off with a soft comb or brush.
- Use a nourishing agent on your baby’s hair. A blend of natural oils will promote healthy hair growth, minimize hair fall, and deeply moisturize the scalp. Massage the oil in and leave it on overnight. Flakes and scales should be softened and can be easily brushed off in the morning.
- Be sure that the flakes are softened and loosened before brushing or combing. Don’t forget to be extra gentle in order to avoid pulling out tufts of hair in the process. Use a wide-toothed comb or a soft-bristled brush.
How to Prevent Cradle Caps
Although there aren’t any surefire ways to ward off the condition, there are steps you can take to prevent the occurrence and severity of cradle cap.
- Make sure that your baby’s head is washed regularly.
- Use a mild and gentle shampoo during bath time to avoid allergic reactions and skin irritation.
- Avoid using headbands since they can be damaging to a newborn’s hair. If you still wish to use them, make sure that they don’t pull your baby’s hair back too tightly.
- Gentle, herbal lotion can help soften flakes and crusts, allowing you to remove them easily.
- Don’t let your baby pick and scratch at scabs. This may cause skin irritation, swelling, and even infection.
Specific Products You Can Use to Lessen Cradle Cap’s Effects
The top priority for any baby is to keep them clean. Products with chemicals that may be harsh on the skin should never be used. Remember to keep your baby products simple. Moringa oil for hair is a great choice for this since it harnesses the natural benefits of malunggay, olive oil, and sunflower oil to moisturize and control dry skin. It’ll also reduce hair fall and dandruff, both of which are common effects of cradle caps.
When Should You Consult a Doctor for Your Baby’s Cradle Cap?
One of the signs of your baby’s cradle cap worsening is if it starts to spread to their face and body. If none of the methods you’ve tried have staved off the condition, it may be time to consult your pediatrician. Doctors will be able to suggest medicated shampoo, lotion, or other medical treatments that will bring better results than any home treatment.
Minimize the Severity and Occurrence of Cradle Cap With Moringa O-2
Skin dermatitis, or cradle cap for babies, might be a harmless condition, but that doesn’t mean it should be neglected. Your baby’s comfort and well-being are important. Keep your baby’s scalp healthy and nourished with herbal skincare solutions from Moringa O-2.
