The main symptom of cradle cap is patches of greasy, scaly skin.
It's usually found on the scalp and face, but sometimes affects the nappy area. It can look like:
- patches of white or yellow greasy scales on the scalp and face that form a crust which might flake off
- small, dry flakes of skin on the nappy area
The scales look similar on all skin tones. But the skin under the scales may look pink or red if your baby has white skin, or lighter or darker than the surrounding skin if your baby has brown or black skin.
It is not itchy or painful and does not bother your baby.
The cause of cradle cap is not clear, but it cannot be caught from other babies.
Do
lightly massage an emollient (moisturiser) on to your baby's scalp to help loosen the scales
gently brush your baby's scalp with a soft brush and then wash it with baby shampoo
See a GP if:
- your baby's cradle cap does not get better after a few weeks of treatment
- your baby has cradle cap all over their body
- the crusts bleed or leak fluid
- the affected areas look swollen
Bleeding, leaking fluid and swelling could be signs of an infection or another condition like atopic eczema or scabies.