Cradle cap sounds like something only babies get. But, if you're dealing with a flaky scalp, yellowish scales, and red skin, you're probably up against a case of adult cradle cap, also known as dandruff. While adult cradle cap is common and not dangerous, nobody wants it!
A nonprescription antifungal cream or anti-itch cream can be helpful. If your scalp is affected, a nonprescription antifungal shampoo, foam or other product may ease your symptoms. Try not to scratch or pick at the affected area. This increases your risk of infection.
Cradle cap vs. seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is the medical term for itchy red patches and greasy scales that can affect you at any age (in adults, you know it as “dandruff”). Cradle cap is a form of seborrheic dermatitis that's limited to your baby's scalp and occurs soon after birth.
Not only does your scalp have a plethora of sweat glands, but it also has an abundance of sebaceous (oil) glands, which produce oily sebum. Have you ever scratched your scalp and noticed white, waxy buildup under your nails? That's sebum mixed with dead skin cells.
To get seborrheic dermatitis under control, you'll use this type of shampoo as often as directed. If you have straight or wavy hair, you may use dandruff shampoo 2 to 3 times a week. However, if you have curly or tightly coiled hair, your dermatologist may recommend using the shampoo once a week.
Cradle cap is not caused by bacterial infection, allergy or poor hygiene. Cradle cap is also not contagious. Doctors do not agree on what causes cradle cap, but the two most common hypotheses are fungal infection and overactive sebaceous glands. Cradle cap is an inflammatory condition.
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.
There are many over-the-counter anti-yeast shampoos that can be used. These include: Dandrazol (ketoconazole) Nizoral (ketoconazole) – also available on prescription.
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.
Gently massage away the scale when shampooing.
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.
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.
What can cause bumps to appear on the scalp? A variety of health issues can cause bumps to form on the scalp, including sweating, folliculitis, acne, head lice, and eczema. Treatment will depend on the cause but may include medicated shampoos, ointments, and other topical products.
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. Shampoo baby's hair often.
It's called “dandruff” (pityriasis capitis) when it's on a teenager's or adult's scalp, and “cradle cap” when it's on a baby's.
When ready to shampoo, first get the scalp wet, then gently scrub the scalp with a soft-bristle brush (a soft toothbrush works well) for a few minutes to remove the scales. You can also try gently removing the scales with a fine-tooth comb.
It can be tempting to pick at scabs on the scalp if they are itchy or painful, but this can cause complications such as infections or skin damage.
The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis isn't clear. It may be due to the yeast Malassezia, excess oil in the skin or a problem in the immune system.
Vitamins D, B2, B3, B6, B7 are usually associated with a flaky scalp.
Seborrheic dermatitis is not caused by poor personal hygiene, nor is it an allergy. Anyone of any age or race can get it, but your risk is higher if you: Are younger than 3 months of age. Are between ages 30 and 60.
Washing Hair 3 Times A Week Can Treat Dandruff
It needs to be exclusive too. If you're switching between an anti-dandruff shampoo and an ordinary cosmetic shampoo, or even using a cosmetic conditioner, it won't be as effective.
Natural remedies may help a person to manage symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis. Examples include fish oil, aloe vera, probiotics, tea tree oil, and more. Seborrheic dermatitis (SD) is caused by an autoimmune response or allergy, and it is not contagious. It is also not curable but can be managed with treatment.