Cradle Cap

Hi moms!  Let’s talk today about infant cradle cap. I had to research
this cause we’ve never had it.

We’ll talk about the causes. Then about prevention and treatment.

When a baby comes down here, it’s a wonderful occasion. It can lead to
many concerns, though.

During the first months, babies are very prone to diseases, especially
of the skin.

It is commonly known as seborrheic dermatitis. It is a skin condition
that occurs on the scalp of babies. Usually, it has no inflammation.

It’s appearance is a lot like colored scales between yellow and white.
The scales are characterized by being oily, thick and difficult to
remove, but fortunately, they are not painful.

It is usual for parents to feel worried when they see baby is suffering
from any condition. There is no need to worry about cradle cap, though.

It is a common and harmless disease, and it heals over time. Also, it
is not contagious.

However, you should not ignore this condition. Cause it can lead to
infections, even though it’s rare.

This is due to several things such as clothing or scratching with nails.

This condition can also appear on the area of the nose, eyes, eyebrows
and ears.

Causes Of Cradle Cap

Maternal Hormones

That is a theory and is based on the belief that baby’s sebaceous glands
do not work right due to the mom’s hormones.

Immunodeficiency

At their young age, babies have a sensitive immunity system. They can
be exposed to infections due to external agents.

Fungus Infection

This type of infection is common and could be one of the causes of
cradle cap.

How To Prevent And Treat Cradle Cap

Wash The Scalp

You must wash baby’s scalp daily. That will serve both to prevent scales
and to get rid of them.

No more than once per day, though. Any more might dry the skin out.

“It may be tempting to think that bathing your baby more often will
help get rid of cradle cap. However, the opposite is true!

Bathing your baby too frequently can dry out their skin, which will
cause their sebaceous glands to release excess oil — which may be
the reason behind your baby’s cradle cap to begin with!”   read more

Use a shampoo and massage the area gently. In case the baby has
scales, you can use oil before washing them so that they come off
quickly.

Olive oil is good. You can also use baby oil or coconut oil. Also, you
must rinse baby’s scalp thoroughly.

“Right before putting Baby into his bath, rub some coconut oil, baby oil
or olive oil onto the scaly patches his head and the surrounding areas.

“Gently massage the oil into the area that has the flakey, scaly skin of
cradle cap,” says Dr. Bush.

Just be sure not to use too much oil, or it will be difficult to get out.”
                                               read here

You only have to leave the oil on for a few minutes.

When using shampoo or any other substance on your baby’s head, you
should clean it carefully to avoid traces of chemicals.

Avoid Using Nails

In general, scratching the area where there are scales is very relaxing.

But that is something you should not do since you can hurt your
baby’s skin with your nails and even cause pain.

To avoid this, gently massage baby’s scalp. That way, you won’t have to
scratch it with your nails, and he or she will feel more relaxed.

Brush Baby’s Hair

Another way to avoid or break the scales is to brush baby’s hair gently.

You can use a soft toothbrush, a fine-toothed comb or a rubber cradle
cap brush. That way, baby will feel relaxed, and you won’t hurt her.

Use An Emollient

An emollient is a cosmetic preparation to moisturize and protect the skin.

That is a great option to avoid this condition and even to treat it.

It will help break down the scales and make baby’s skin soft, healthy
and calm.

Some types of emollients are oil (mineral, baby, olive) and petroleum
jelly. You have to massage your child’s scalp gently.

Use Shampoo

You should use a shampoo recommended by your baby doctor to
massage baby’s scalp.

These shampoos have the right properties and chemicals for the
treatment and prevention of cradle cap.

Make Baby Sleep The Right Amount Of Time

If your baby doesn’t get enough rest, that might cause an outbreak too.

“Sleep deprivation is another potential trigger for a cradle cap outbreak.

The National Sleep Foundation recommends that newborns get at least
14 to 17 hours of sleep per day, and infants at least 12 to 15 hours per
day.

Ensuring that your baby has been taken care of and is comfortable can
help them sleep better and longer.”   read here

OK, moms. I hope your little one stays or becomes cradle cap free!
Have a great day!

courtesy The Fitzgeralds @youtube.com

The links on this webpage may contain affiliate links. This means we may
receive a commission if you decide to make any purchases using our links.
This affiliate relationship does not alter the integrity of our content
in any way. Thanks, for your support!