Cradle cap what causes it, and why do babies get it?
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Cradle cap is something many new parents notice in the first weeks or months after their baby is born.
As a new mum or dad, you naturally want your baby to look perfect, so seeing a build-up on the scalp can be concerning. In most cases, however, cradle cap will clear up.
What Causes Cradle Cap?
The cause of cradle cap is usually related to maternal hormones.
While the baby is in the womb, the mother’s hormones cross the placenta and activate the baby’s sebaceous glands.
When the baby is first born, everything may look fine. Then, three or four weeks later, or sometimes a few months later, you may begin to notice some build-up on the scalp.
This happens because the sebaceous glands are more active.
Don’t Pick at Cradle Cap
It is important not to pick at the cradle cap.
Instead, the goal is to soften it.
You can apply oils and use unscented shampoos. Once the cradle cap has softened, you can also use a baby brush to gently help remove some of the crusting.
What If It Spreads to the Face?
If the cradle cap starts to move onto the face or around the eyes, it may be classified as infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis.
It is essentially the same thing, but because it has moved onto the face, the classification changes.
When to Speak to Someone
If you are concerned, you can speak with your GP or maternal health nurse.
Cradle cap will clear up. The sebaceous glands are simply more active for a period of time.
The main things to remember are patience and oil.
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