The first months of a baby's life are full of discoveries and moments of happiness, but they can also be accompanied by small inconveniences, including the famous "cradle cap" of the infant . For many parents, these yellowish crusts on the scalp of their little treasure can seem worrying, but don't panic! In this article, we will demystify this phenomenon and give you all the tips to get rid of it gently.
First of all, what is cradle cap?
Cradle cap, medically known as seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap, is a scaly patch that forms on the scalp of infants. It is caused by excess sebum, the natural oil produced by the skin, combined with dead skin cells.
What are the symptoms and causes of their appearance?
Cradle cap usually appears as yellowish or whitish crusts, sometimes accompanied by redness or irritation. It can also appear on other parts of the body such as the face, ears, or eyebrows. The exact causes of cradle cap are not fully understood, but they are thought to be related to hormonal changes in the baby and an overreaction of the skin's oil glands.
How to effectively treat cradle cap?
Fortunately, cradle cap usually goes away on its own over time. However, there are a few steps you can take to help clear it up faster:
- Use a gentle, suitable shampoo: Gently wash your baby's hair with a baby shampoo that treats cradle cap . Avoid harsh products that could further irritate your baby's sensitive skin.
- Gently massage your baby's scalp using our cradle cap treatment shampoo enriched with organic coconut oil and organic raspberry extract, using light circular motions. You can also use sweet almond oil or warm olive oil, which can also help loosen and soften the crusts, making them easier to remove.
- Use a fine-toothed comb or soft brush: Use a fine-toothed comb to gently remove softened crusts after applying the treatment (application time: approximately 5 minutes) and massaging. Make sure you are very gentle and patient to avoid tearing off cradle cap that has not softened enough and also to avoid irritating your baby's delicate skin.
- Consult a doctor: If the scabs persist or are accompanied by other symptoms such as severe itching, redness, sores, and infections, it is important to consult a pediatrician. Specialized treatment may be necessary to relieve your baby's discomfort.
Cradle cap can seem like a concern for new parents, but it's important to remember that it's usually harmless and often goes away on its own over time. By following these simple tips and staying attentive to your baby's needs, you can easily manage this minor inconvenience and fully enjoy the precious time you have with your newborn.
