Cradle cap

• What is cradle cap?

  Harmless skin condition in babies
• How long does cradle cap typically last?

  Spontaneously resolves in 6-12 months
• What is another name for cradle cap?

  Seborrhoeic dermatitis of scalp
• Where else can cradle cap occur besides the scalp?

  Other areas of the body
• What may cause cradle cap?

  Overactive sebaceous glands producing sebum
• How might maternal hormones affect cradle cap?

  They may make glands more active
• What effect does excess sebum have on skin cells?

  Causes old skin cells to stick to scalp
• What type of yeast is associated with cradle cap?

  Malassezia yeasts
• Is cradle cap contagious?

  No, it is not contagious
• What does cradle cap indicate about a child's health?

  It does not indicate an infection
• Where is cradle cap usually found on a baby?

  On the scalp and face
• What do the patches of cradle cap look like?

  White or yellow greasy scales forming crusts
• What might the skin under the scales look like?

  Pink or red, or lighter/darker than surrounding skin
• What is a possible consequence of cradle cap patches falling off?

  Possibility of hair loss
• Does cradle cap cause discomfort to the baby?

  No, it is not itchy or painful
• What is the management approach for cradle cap?

  It is self-limiting but can be managed
• How can you prevent a build-up of scales in cradle cap?

  Gently wash the baby's hair and scalp
• What can be used to help loosen scales on the scalp?

  Petroleum jelly as an emollient
• What should you do after massaging the emollient into the scalp?

  Gently brush the scalp and wash with baby shampoo
• What oils should not be used on cradle cap?

  Olive oil and peanut oil
• Why should you not pick at crusts on cradle cap?

  It can increase the chance of infection
• What treatments can be considered for severe cradle cap?

  Topical imidazole cream or hydrocortisone 1%
• What are the key characteristics of cradle cap?

  • Harmless skin condition in babies
  • Self-limiting, resolves in 6-12 months
  • Patches of white/yellow greasy scales
  • Not itchy or painful
  • Can occur on scalp and face
• What is the management strategy for cradle cap?

  • Gently wash hair and scalp
  • Use petroleum jelly to loosen scales
  • Brush scalp and wash with baby shampoo
  • Avoid olive and peanut oils
  • Do not pick at crusts
  • Consider topical treatments for severe cases