Can I ignore cradle cap?

Author: Caterina Rolfson DVM  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Cradle cap will eventually go away on its own between 6 and 12 months of age. Usually, it doesn't cause any symptoms (such as pain or itching). Therefore, treatment is optional. It is mainly done for cosmetic reasons.

What happens if you ignore cradle cap?

Cradle cap usually goes away on its own (without treatment) within a few weeks or months. Self-care at home may help move things along. If cradle cap doesn't go away in a few months, call your pediatrician. They can check your baby's scalp and see if they have another skin condition that needs treatment.

Is it OK to leave cradle cap alone?

Unless the cradle cap is bothersome to you, it is perfectly okay to leave it alone. If you choose to treat it, buy an anti-dandruff shampoo (no prescription needed) at the drugstore and wash hair twice a week.

Does cradle cap go away by itself?

Cradle cap is a harmless skin condition that's common in babies. It usually goes away on its own in 6 to 12 months, but there are things you can try to make it better.

Is it okay to pick off cradle cap?

You can also carefully use a baby brush during your baby's bath to help remove the scale in their hair. You can also use a baby comb. Never scratch or pick at cradle cap, as this could cause an infection.

4 cradle cap tips from dermatologists

What triggers the cradle cap?

The cause of cradle cap isn't known. One factor may be hormones that pass from the mother to the baby before birth.

Does breast milk cure cradle cap?

Skin treatments

When you add in its moisturizing properties, massaging breast milk onto eczema patches or cradle cap (the scaly, yellowish patches that sometimes develop on a newborn's scalp) can swiftly clear up the problem spots.

How do you get rid of cradle cap ASAP?

Don't scratch. Wash your baby's hair once a day with baby shampoo. Loosen the scales with a small, soft-bristled brush or fine-toothed comb before rinsing off the shampoo. If the scales don't loosen easily, rub petroleum jelly or a few drops of mineral oil onto your baby's scalp.

Should you moisturize your cradle cap?

Cradle cap usually gets better on its own without treatment. However, the following steps may help it improve faster: Loosen the crusts by applying a light moisturising cream or lotion to the scalp.

Is Aquaphor good for cradle cap?

A: The Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment may be used for cradle cap. It is an ointment so you will have to rub it gently on the scalp using caution to avoid the eyes.

At what age will cradle cap resolve if left untreated?

Cradle cap will eventually go away on its own between 6 and 12 months of age. Usually, it doesn't cause any symptoms (such as pain or itching). Therefore, treatment is optional.

Is cradle cap from neglect?

Cradle cap is common in young babies and does not point to poor hygiene or lack of care. The following may help prevent the buildup of scales on the scalp: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove the scales from the scalp.

Does not washing hair cause cradle cap?

While there's no sure-fire method to prevent cradle cap, shampooing your little one's hair every few days with a mild fragrance-free baby shampoo can help prevent the buildup of oil on the scalp. If your baby does get cradle cap, it typically goes away on its own without medical treatment before baby reaches 12 months.

Is it OK to rub off cradle cap?

Remember that cradle cap does not have to be treated. It almost always goes away on its own. If cradle cap bothers you, you can wash the scaling off your baby's scalp: Rub your baby's scalp with baby oil (or mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum jelly) to help lift the crusts and loosen the scales.

How often should you bathe a newborn?

How often does my newborn need a bath? There's no need to give your newborn baby a bath every day. Three times a week might be enough until your baby becomes more mobile. Bathing your baby too much can dry out your baby's skin.

What should a parent never do when it comes to cradle cap?

Do not scratch at your baby's cradle cap! In theory, scratching away your baby's thick, dry patches appears like it could work, but you'll only end up making things worse and could even end up hurting your little one!

What vitamin deficiency causes cradle cap?

Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis)

Infants who don't have enough biotin often develop this scaly scalp condition. However, no studies have shown that biotin supplements -- given in formula or breast milk -- effectively treat cradle cap.

What is the yellow crusty scab on my scalp?

Seborrheic dermatitis signs and symptoms may include: Flaking skin (dandruff) on your scalp, hair, eyebrows, beard or mustache. Patches of greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales or crust on the scalp, face, sides of the nose, eyebrows, ears, eyelids, chest, armpits, groin area or under the breasts.

What is the best face wash for seborrheic dermatitis?

Specifically formulated for skin experiencing the symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis, BIODERMA Sensibio Seborrheic Dermatitis Face Wash instantly soothes sensitivity and leaves skin feeling comfortable and refreshed.

What foods trigger seborrheic dermatitis?

While there are no good clinical studies, yeast and mold elimination diets may be helpful for people who have a difficult time controlling their seborrheic dermatitis. This entails eliminating breads, cheeses, wine, beer, excessive carbohydrates, and other foods made by yeast or fungi.

Why shouldn't you pick cradle cap?

You can carefully use a baby brush during your baby's bath to help remove the scale in their hair. You can also use a baby comb. Never scratch or pick at cradle cap, as this could irritate the skin or cause an infection.

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