How to Get Rid of Cradle Cap?

November 13, 2023 Cherish Motherhood 0 Comments

My baby had cradle cap on her scalp and eyebrow when she was about 2 months old. Cradle cap is the infant form of dandruff which causes rough, scaly patches on baby's skin. Cradle cap is a type of seborrheic dermatitis found on baby's head. It is a common condition that affects approximately 70% of 3 months old  babies. It is rarely itchy or uncomfortable and it is not contagious.

Source: Healthdirect Australia

Treatment

1) Moisturise and gently massage affected areas

Sebclair Cream was prescribed by my PD and I apply twice a day with gentle massages on my baby's scalp and eyebrow. I'll apply once after morning wipe and once after shower in the late afternoon. You can continue using this cream even after your baby's cradle cap has resolved and it can be used on other body parts too (eg. face).

Source: Instagram

On top of that, I also apply Mustela Cradle Cap Cream daily on my baby's scalp and eyebrow before her sleep time. The texture is a bit watery, so be careful when you press the tube to prevent over-squeezing it.

Source: Shopee

Alternatively, you can massage Tropicana Virgin Coconut Oil for Baby into affected areas and leave it on for 10 - 15 mins before baby's bath. I can see improvement on my baby's scalp and eyebrow within a day or two. However, I dislike using it because it literally makes everything oily and I personally dislike the strong coconut smell on my baby. If you don't mind it, then you may give it a try.

Source: Lazada

2) Use the right shampoo and gently massage when shampooing

I was using the usual head-to-toe baby shampoo and my baby's condition didn't improve. Hence, I have decided to try Mustela Foam Shampoo specifically for cradle cap. I love this shampoo because it lathers well which makes it easy to massage my baby's scalp. It has no fragrance and uses tear-free formula. 

Source: Shopee

3) Use baby hair brush 

I use Dr. Brown's Brush + Comb to brush my baby's hair. It effectively removes the cradle cap flakes and its soft soothing bristles makes it suitable for baby head massage. Remember to NOT forcefully peel the flakes as it may bleed.

Source: Shopee

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Depending on the severity of your baby's condition, your baby may require a longer recovery period. Be patient and don't be too hard on yourself. Always consult your PD when you're in doubt.