Cradle cap (infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis) appears as thick, yellowish-white or brownish scales on your baby's scalp. It looks alarming but is not contagious, not caused by poor hygiene, and is not itchy or uncomfortable for your baby.
What Causes Cradle Cap
The exact cause is not fully understood. The leading theory is an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast on the skin, which is common in areas with high sebaceous gland activity (scalp, eyebrows, nasolabial folds). Maternal hormones passed before birth stimulate sebaceous glands in the first weeks, which may contribute.
When It Peaks and Resolves
| Timing | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 0–3 months | Develops in most babies; often mild |
| 3–6 months | May peak — scaling can be thick and crusty |
| 6–12 months | Usually resolves on its own |
| Beyond 12 months | Less common; may indicate infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis |
Gentle Treatment Protocol
- Apply a small amount of coconut oil, olive oil, or mineral oil to the scalp 30–60 minutes before bathing
- Gently massage in circular motions to loosen the scales
- Use a soft baby brush or fine-toothed comb to gently lift the loosened scales
- Wash the scalp with a gentle baby shampoo
- Do not force scales off — this can cause bleeding and infection
- Repeat 2–3 times per week until resolved
What Not to Do
- Do not pick at the scales with your nails — infection risk
- Do not use adult anti-dandruff shampoos (selenium sulphide or ketoconazole) without a doctor's advice
- Avoid overwashing — daily shampooing can strip natural oils and worsen scaling
If It Spreads Beyond the Scalp
Cradle cap that spreads to the face, neck, armpits, or nappy area may be seborrhoeic dermatitis (which behaves the same way but is more widespread). If it's very red, inflamed, and weepy, or if it does not respond to the oil-and-brush method, see your paediatrician or a dermatologist.
Tip
Coconut oil has mild antifungal properties from its lauric acid content — this is why many families in Southeast Asia have used it traditionally for cradle cap.
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