KeaBabies Tips For Preventing and Treating Cradle Cap

Has your newborn’s hair suddenly become dry and flaky? Your baby is probably experiencing infantile seborrheic dermatitis, also known as “cradle cap.” This condition is very common among infants, and like cases of adult dandruff, it can cause crusty, oily patches on a baby’s scalp. Thankfully, the condition does not cause itchiness or pain - it can just be frustrating for parents! Most cases of cradle cap simply clear up as your baby grows and matures, but there are some common remedies that may help alleviate some of the symptoms. 

How do you know if your infant has a cradle cap? Here are some of the most common signs:

• Skin flakes
• Oily, dry patches of scalp 
• Flaky white or yellow scales on the scalp 
• “Greasy” scalp
• Mild redness on baby’s head 

Be aware - cradle cap doesn’t only appear on the head, it can also appear on the ears, eyelids, armpits, and nose. While researchers cannot pinpoint the exact cause of cradle cap, speculation is that the excess oil production is caused by the mother’s hormones. 

Cradle cap usually doesn’t require medical treatment, although it can be annoying for parents to see their little one’s head covered in flakes and dry patches! There are a few simple remedies that may help loosen the flakes and help your baby’s head clear up faster. 

The easiest way to help clear up the cradle cap is to use mild baby shampoo to wash your little one’s hair every day. Some parents even swear by spreading oil, such as coconut oil, onto their baby’s head before a bath to help loosen the flakes even more. Other parents use petroleum jelly or other ointments to soak the baby’s scalp before bath time. Then, after shampooing, gently scrub baby’s head with a soft bristle brush. Try to avoid scrubbing with a hard brush or your fingernails - this can just cause more irritation and may even cause sores that are vulnerable to infection. 

If this doesn’t work, there are some shampoos marketed for babies that are safe and helpful for clearing up a cradle cap. Check your local pharmacy for these shampoos, and check with your child’s pediatrician before use. Do not use adult dandruff shampoos, as these contain harmful chemicals that are not safe for your infant’s fragile skin. 

If you’re looking for a great brush to help keep your baby’s head clear and healthy, KeaBabies has a wonderful brush and comb set perfect for newborns! The KeaBabies Baby Hair Brush and Comb Set come with two brushes, one with bamboo bristles and one with soft goat bristles, and a wooden pear comb. The bamboo bristles are ideal for gently scrubbing and massaging your baby’s head, and the soft goat bristles are helpful for removing flakes and dry patches without damaging your baby’s sensitive scalp. Each brush can be used on both wet and dry hair, perfect for everyday use. The bristles even provide a soothing sensation, and promote better blood circulation and peaceful sleep! 

These brushes are made of natural materials and are safe for newborns. They are made from soft natural goat bristles, bamboo, beechwood, and pearwood. The premium quality bristles help prevent oil buildup on your baby’s scalp and may help prevent cradle cap and even bald spots. The brushes are gentle enough even for newborns, but are also wonderful for toddlers and kids! 

If you’re worried about your little one’s scalp, try the KeaBabies brush set and see how the amazing quality of the KeaBabies brand can help your little one steer clear of the dry flakiness of cradle cap! 

If your baby’s scalp suddenly becomes red and swollen, make an appointment with the pediatrician. Some doctors will prescribe a hydrocortisone cream if the scalp becomes inflamed. 

Thankfully, most cases of cradle cap simply clear up on their own as your baby grows. Using a soft bristle brush such as the one from the KeaBabies brush set can help alleviate the symptoms of cradle cap and help your little one’s scalp clear up in no time!