Cradle Cap - Caring for Your Baby's Delicate Scalp
Cradle cap, a common skin condition that affects many babies during their first few months of life and can cause concern for parents. It can occur due to several factors, including overactive oil glands, yeast overgrowth, and hormonal influences from the mother during pregnancy. These factors contribute to the excessive production of sebum, resulting in the formation of scales on the scalp.
Noah my little one developed it when he was about 1 month old. Reassuringly I knew it was harmless and temporary BUT I wanted it to clear up fast. His before and after pictures are below. The results were amazing!
I knew what I needed to do, implement a gentle care routine to help alleviate discomfort and promote a healthy scalp for him. It was simple and easy but required some dedication. Here’s what you can do to get rid of the cakey, scaley flakes too!
Gently Massage the Scalp
Using your fingertips or a soft brush (I used our baby brush), gently massage your baby's scalp in circular motions. This helps loosen and lift the scales, making them easier to remove. DO NOT pick the scales. This can lead to infection and damage to the skin.
Gentle Cleansing
Wash your baby's scalp with a mild, baby-friendly shampoo specifically formulated for cradle cap like our Baby Soap. Gently lather the soap, taking care not to scrub vigorously. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.
Soft Brushing
After washing, use a soft brush to gently brush your baby's scalp. This can help remove any remaining scales and stimulate the natural oils on the scalp.
Natural Remedies
Apply a small amount of Baby Nourishing Oil to the affected area and massage, then gently brush through the hair to remove them. After cleansing and removing the scales, apply a a little more Baby Nourishing Oil to the scalp to keep it hydrated and prevent dryness.
Avoid Harsh Products
To prevent further irritation and minimise the risk of exacerbating cradle cap, avoid using harsh shampoos, detergents, or skincare products on your baby's scalp. Opt for gentle, baby-friendly products that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes like our Baby Range.
While cradle cap usually resolves on its own over time, adopting a few preventative measures can help manage and minimise its occurrence:
Maintain good scalp hygiene, avoiding overwashing, and ensure thorough rinsing of your baby's hair during bath time.
Regularly brush your baby's scalp to prevent the buildup of excess oil and scales.
Use a gentle shampoo and moisturiser suitable for your baby's delicate skin.
Avoid using hats or head coverings that may contribute to excess heat and moisture buildup on the scalp.
However, if your baby experiences persistent redness, intense itching, or signs of infection such as pus or spreading redness, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.
As always if you have any questions please reach out to me at hello@artioskincare.com
Have a great week.
Rachel x
