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## What is Cradle Cap?
**Definition:**
Cradle cap, also known as infantile seborrheic dermatitis**, is a common skin condition that affects infants during the first few months of life. It is characterized by dry, flaky or crusty patches on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, or behind the ears.
**Causes:**
The exact cause of cradle cap is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
* Overproduction of sebum (oil) by the sebaceous glands in the scalp
* Malassezia, a type of yeast that normally lives on the scalp
* Hormonal changes in the infant
**Symptoms:**
The most common symptom of cradle cap is:
* Dry, scaly or crusty patches on the scalp, which may vary in color from yellow to white
Other possible symptoms include:
* Patches on the eyebrows, eyelids, or behind the ears
* Mild redness or inflammation
* Itching or irritation
* Slight hair loss in affected areas
**Treatment:**
While cradle cap is not harmful and usually clears up on its own within a few months, there are some treatments that can help manage the symptoms:
* **Shampooing:** Washing the infant’s hair regularly with a gentle baby shampoo can help remove crusty scales.
* **Moisturizing:** Applying a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer or petroleum jelly to the affected areas can help soothe and hydrate the skin.
* **Brushing:** Softly brushing the baby’s scalp with a soft-bristled brush can help loosen and remove the scales.
* **OTC medications:** Over-the-counter anti-fungal creams or shampoos containing ingredients like selenium sulfide or ketoconazole can help control Malassezia yeast.
* **Medical treatment:** In severe cases, a doctor may prescribe prescription-strength medications or recommend a referral to a dermatologist.
**Prevention:**
There is no sure way to prevent cradle cap, but there are some steps that may help reduce the risk:
* Avoid over-washing the baby’s hair or using harsh soaps or shampoos.
* Keep the baby’s scalp clean and dry by using a soft, damp cloth to wipe away any excess oil or sweat.
* If using a humidifier, make sure it is clean and the humidity level is not too high, as this can promote yeast growth.
**Additional Information:**
* Cradle cap is not contagious and is not a sign of poor hygiene.
* It is important to avoid using harsh treatments or picking at the crusty patches, as this can irritate the skin and lead to infection.
* If the condition does not improve with home treatment or if the baby experiences severe symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Cradle cap is a common skin condition that affects babies. It is characterized by dry, scaly patches on the scalp. Cradle cap is not contagious and usually goes away on its own within a few months.