Skin problems health centre

Young babies can get a kind of seborrhoeic dermatitis called cradle cap. It usually happens about a month after a baby is born. It affects the top of their scalp and causes thick, greasy flakes of skin.^[1] These may be a white or yellowish colour. There may also be some redness in the creases around your child's neck or under their arms. The rash can sometimes spread to your baby's face or their nappy area.

Although you may be worried about your child, cradle cap isn’t harmful, and it's not caused by poor hygiene.^[2] It might look bad, but babies don't usually find it itchy or uncomfortable.^[1]

Cradle cap usually goes away in time, but there are things you can do to help with flaking skin in the meantime.^[2]

• Shampooing with a mild baby shampoo and brushing with a soft brush can help lift the scales of skin from your baby's scalp.

• Some parents try using baby oil to soften dry flakes of skin and make them easier to brush off. But don't use too much oil or let it build up, as it can make oily skin worse.

• Medicated shampoos may help cradle cap to clear up more quickly, but they can also irritate your baby's skin. It's best to avoid them unless your doctor recommends them.

If your baby doesn't improve, or the rash spreads from the scalp to the face or other areas, take him or her to see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if your baby seems distressed, or if you are worried for any reason. Your doctor can make sure there's nothing else wrong, and prescribe a cream to help with the rash.

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