Cradle Cap; dandruff; dermatitis - seborrheic
Definition
A skin condition characterized by greasy or dry white scales, with or without associated reddened skin. Cradle cap is the term used when seborrheic dermatitis affects the scalp of infants.
Cradle cap appears as thick, crusty, yellow scales over the child's scalp. Similar scales may also be found on the eyelids, ear, around the nose, and in the groin. Cradle cap may be seen in newborns and small children up to the age of 3 years. It is a chronic, recurring condition caused by inflammation of skin glands. It is similar to dandruff in adults. (However, dandruff can also be caused by other scalp conditions).
Cradle cap is not contagious, it is not caused by poor hygiene, it is not an allergy, and it is not dangerous. Cradle cap may or may not itch. If itching is present, excessive scratching of the area may cause additional inflammation and breaks in skin may cause mild infections or bleeding.
Symptoms
- skin lesion
- greasy, oily areas of skin
- skin scales, white and flaking or yellowish, oily, and adherent "dandruff"
- patches may include the scalp, eyebrows, nose, forehead, or ears
- itching, usually painless unless infected
- mild redness
Infants (cradle cap):
- Massage your baby's scalp gently with your fingers or a soft brush to loosen the scales and improve scalp circulation.
- Give your child daily, gentle shampoos with a mild soap while scales are present. After scales have disappeared, you may reduce shampoos to twice weekly.
- Be sure to rinse off all soap.
- Brush your child's hair with a clean, soft brush after each shampoo and several times during the day.
- If scales do not easily loosen and wash off, apply some mineral oil to the baby's scalp and wrap warm, wet cloths around his head for up to an hour before shampooing. Then shampoo as directed above. Remember that your baby loses a lot of heat through his scalp. If you use warm, wet cloths with the mineral oil, check frequently to be sure that the cloths have not become cold. Cold, wet cloths could drastically reduce your baby's temperature.
- If the scales continue to be a problem or concern, or if you child seems uncomfortable or scratches his scalp, contact your physician. He may prescribe a cream or lotion to apply to your baby's scalp several times a day.
Expectations (Prognosis)
Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic condition, controllable with treatment. It often has extended inactive periods followed by flare-ups.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if seborrheic dermatitis symptoms do not respond to self care or over-the-counter treatments. Also call if patches of seborrheic dermatitis drain fluid or pus, form crusts, or become very red or painful.
The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.
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