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Cradle cap

Cradle cap is a harmless, common skin condition in babies that causes greasy white or yellow flakes, mainly on the scalp. It is not contagious and usually clears on its own within a few months.

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Cradle cap is a common, harmless form of seborrhoeic dermatitis in babies. It causes greasy or dry flakes and crusts, mainly on the scalp. Cradle cap is not contagious and usually clears on its own.

  • The flakes are often white, yellow or brown, and the skin underneath may be pink, red, lighter or darker.
  • Ordinary cradle cap usually does not hurt and causes little or no itching. A baby who is clearly uncomfortable may have something else or a complication.
  • Wash gently with unperfumed baby shampoo and gently remove loose flakes with your fingers or a soft baby brush.
  • Do not scratch off crusts or use adult anti-dandruff shampoo, essential oils or medicated cream without advice.

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Seborrhoeic dermatitis: flaky skin on the scalp, face or earsGreasy or dry flakes on the scalp, eyebrows, creases beside the nose and around the ears often suggest seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is not contagious and can return. Gentle care and a suitable shampoo or medicated treatment help; pain, pus, fever or patchy hair loss need assessment.
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DandruffDandruff causes white or yellowish flakes and sometimes an itchy scalp. It is often a mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis, is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene. Bald patches, broken hairs, pus or pain are not typical of ordinary dandruff.
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Common coldA common cold is a contagious viral infection of the nose and throat that usually improves on its own within one to two weeks, although a cough may last longer. Rest, fluids and saline nose drops may ease symptoms; antibiotics do not help, and breathlessness, drowsiness, dehydration or illness in a very young baby needs prompt assessment.