Cradle cap – what is that sticky yellow stuff?

Your Body

Cradle cap – what is that sticky yellow stuff?

Cradle cap is essentially baby dandruff. Usually it looks yellow, greasy or scaly, and presents in patches over the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes or any other area of the body.  It may appear as dry patches on the scalp. When it is in areas apart from the head we call it seborrheic dermatitis. When they peel or flake off they often take hair with them.

Usually it looks yellow, greasy or scaly, and presents in patches over the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes or any other area of the body.  

Cradle cap is most common in kids less than 8 months of age. It usually appears in the first 3 months. Most babies are unbothered by it, though a select few are itchy.

 

What causes cradle cap?

Most people think cradle cap is a result of hormone fluctuations after birth. These lead to secretions from the oil glands, which decrease over time, which is why is usually clears on its own with time. Some people think it may also be a fungal infection variant.

How to treat cradle cap on the scalp

I find it most easy to saturate the scalp in oily products like olive oil for about an hour before the bath. Then in the bath comb with a fine toothed comb. Usually the scale will come off easily and not bother the child. Some recommend using a dandruff shampoo, though I prefer the non chemical approach first. If this isn’t successful a low dose topical steroid ointment can help.

I find it most easy to saturate the scalp in oily products like olive oil for about an hour before the bath. Then in the bath comb with a fine toothed comb. 

Cradle cap on the face

This is easily treated with oil and a facecloth. Apply oil 30 for thirty minutes then take a facecloth and gently rub the scale – the flakes will come right off.

Try not picking at the scale. Though this may look effective, you may introduce infection.

Rest assured, the vast majority clear up on their own with no intervention at all. If it looks red, swollen, or with discharge, or if your baby gets a fever, please see your physician.

Dr. Dina Kulik, MD, FRCPC, PEM

Written By: Dr. Dina Kulik, MD, FRCPC, PEM

Dina is a wife, mother of 4, and adrenaline junky. She loves to share children’s health information from her professional and personal experience. More About Dr Dina.

You might also enjoy

What To Do for Painful Constipation in a Child

What To Do for Painful Constipation in a Child

Painful constipation is a prevalent issue that many kids experience. Nowadays, painful constipation in kids is especially frequent because many children overeat processed food, too little fiber, and drink too little water. They are probably following the model of adults who tend to lack a proper diet as well!

How to Ensure Kids Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can creep on your little ones fast. If it does, you want to be able to tell right away and work to rehydrate them. Let’s make sure your dehydration radar is up-to-date so you know what to detect.

What is Myopia? Can Kids Get Myopia from Digital Eyestrain?

What is Myopia? Can Kids Get Myopia from Digital Eyestrain?

While virtual school allows our kids to continue to learn from the safety of their homes, it does raise concerns for digital eyestrain and the development of myopia. Digital eye strain is more common when we are looking at a computer screen several hours a day.

Dr. Dina Kulik - Subscribe to my Blog
Dr Dina Kulik - Kids Health blog

The general information provided on the Website is for informational purposes and is not medical advice.

Do NOT use this Website for medical emergencies.

If you have a medical emergency, call a physician or qualified healthcare provider, or CALL 911 immediately. Under no circumstances should you attempt self-treatment based on anything you have seen or read on this Website. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed and qualified health provider in your jurisdiction concerning any questions you may have regarding any information obtained from this Website and any medical condition you believe may be relevant to you or to someone else. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website.

Success! Check Your Inbox

Success! Check Your Inbox

Success! Check Your Inbox

COVID Toolbox

Success! Check Your Inbox

Dr Dina Kulik - Kids Health blog

.

Success! Thanks for Subscribing!

Dr Dina Kulik - Kids Health blog

.

Success! Thanks for Subscribing!

Dr Dina Kulik - Kids Health - Constipation Management

Success! Check Your Inbox