CRADLE CAP

A cradle cap is a condition in which a baby’s scalp develops dry or oily scaly patches. It’s not a painful or irritating condition. However, it can result in thick yellow or white scales that are difficult to remove. Furthermore, after a few weeks or months, the cradle cap usually disappears on its own.

Cleaning your baby’s scalp with a mild shampoo is a good home care practice. This will assist you in loosening and removing the scale. Your doctor may recommend a medicated lotion, shampoo, or other treatment if the cradle cap continues or appears to be severe.

SYMPTOMS

The following are some of the most common cradle cap symptoms:

  • Thick crusts or patchy scaling on the scalp
  • Mild redness
  • Skin flakes

Scales similar to these can be found on the eyelids, groin, ears, and nose. However, it isn’t itchy in general. Atopic dermatitis, another skin disorder, is occasionally confused with it. However, the fact that atopic dermatitis frequently produces considerable itching is a noteworthy difference between these two disorders.

DIAGNOSIS

Cradle cap affects babies’ scalps and can develop in the area behind their ears. Patches on the nose, eyes, crotch, armpits, and backs of the knees are also possible. It is not recognized as a cradle cap when it appears on the body. Doctors diagnose this disease by performing a physical exam and assessing the symptoms.

TREATMENT

The majority of the time, a cradle cap does not necessitate medical treatment. Until then, wash your child’s hair once a day using gentle baby shampoo. If your scalp is severely scaling, apply mineral oil to it for a few hours before washing. Then, as usual, shampoo your hair and use a soft brush to gently remove the scale away from your scalp.

If regular shampooing isn’t working, consult your baby’s physician about other options, such as a low-potency hydrocortisone lotion or a shampoo containing 2% antifungal ketoconazole medicine. Ensure the shampoo does not get into your baby’s eyes, as this might cause irritation.

Do not use OTC antifungal or cortisone creams on your baby physician without first consulting with his or her doctor, as some of these medicines can be hazardous when absorbed through the skin. Salicylic acid shampoos for dandruff are likewise not recommended for use on babies due to the possibility of skin absorption.

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