Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : February 3, 2016 2:48 PM IST
I am a 29-year old woman. I recently gave birth to a baby boy, who is suffering from cradle cap. A friend suggested that I should apply oil to get rid of the white flaky skin on my baby s scalp. Will that help? How should I treat my baby's cradle cap? Please help.
The query is answered by Dr K.P.Sanghvi, Senior Consultant, Neonatologist and Paediatrician, Jaslok, Saifee and Bhatia Hospital, Mumbai.
The appearance of white, flaky skin on a baby's scalp is known as cradle cap and it is a very common condition in infants. Caused due to the accumulation of oily sebum from the scalp, it can last from a few months to up to a year. In most cases, it doesn't cause itching but forms yellow or white thick scales on scalp. Here is everything you want to know about cradle cap or seborrheic dermatitis in newborns.
Instead of worrying about the condition, here are few tips you should follow to deal with cradle cap:
1. Unlike most people who apply oil to quickly get rid of flaky skin, it is recommended not to apply excessive oil as it may further worsen the condition. Cradle cap is caused due to excessive oil production and so using oil is not a good idea. Also read about seven vital tips to take care of your newborn.
2. Keep the head clean by washing daily with lukewarm water, without a soap or shampoo as it is not required. While there might be numerous baby products available, it is better to avoid them as it might lead to itching or burning of the skin. Read more about what is the right time to use soaps and shampoos for babies?
3. In the case of excessive flaking, you can scrub it slowly with a wet towel. However, ensure that you don t rub it harshly as it might lead to peeling of the skin.
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