Cradle cap is very common in young infants and usually covers the soft fontanelles (the soft spot) of baby’s head. This form of dermatitis of the scalp is harmless. The over-production of sebum, a greasy substance produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands, keeps the old skin cells attached to the scalp. The over-production of sebum is caused by mother’s increase of hormones which are passed on to the infant through the placenta. Sometimes this condition can spread to other areas such as the face, neck or buttocks and persist through baby’s first year.

Admittedly, it doesn’t look very nice but before reaching for special shampoos or even hydrocortisone cream, consider these natural alternatives!

Baby’s cradle cap can be relieved with a gentle massage of the scalp using a few drops of warmed St John’s Wort oil or olive oil. You can leave this overnight and clean baby’s scalp in the morning (Use a towel to protect the sheets). Diluted cider vinegar also helps to lift the scales. After the treatment shampoo baby’s head thoroughly and use a soft baby brush to brush off loose scales. You may have to repeat this several times before you see the results.

Cradle cap usually worsens when the baby is hot and sweats. So keep baby’s scalp cool and dry and don’t put a hat on indoors or in a heated car (But remember to use a hat in the sun or when it is cold and windy outside). In addition, never pick off the crust or rub it vigorously to prevent soreness and even bleeding!