Cradle Cap

What is cradle cap?
Cradle cap is a generally harmless but unattractive scalp condition that strikes babies and young children up to age 3. In adults or older children, or on other parts of a baby’s body, it’s called seborrheic dermatitis. With cradle cap, the skin of the scalp looks greasy or oily and has dry patches that look like dandruff or crusty yellow scales. Cradle cap typically doesn’t lead to any complications, although if it itches, scratching could cause skin irritation and bleeding or create an opening for infection, particularly in older babies or toddlers who have the coordination to scratch the itch.
What causes cradle cap?
Doctors aren’t sure what triggers the scalp condition, but one theory is that before birth, pregnancy hormones overstimulate the oil-producing glands on the baby’s scalp. Another theory points a finger at a yeast or fungal infection. Cradle cap is not believed to be an allergic reaction, contagious, or related to poor hygiene, although frequent shampooing can help clear up the flakes and crusting. It’s not linked to any other health conditions.
How can I treat my baby’s cradle cap?
Treatment isn’t necessary, since cradle cap isn’t harmful and should go away on its own with time. But it can be unsightly. If you want to get rid of the unattractive flakes and scales, try these tips:

• Wash your baby’s scalp frequently with a gentle baby shampoo.
• Brush your baby’s scalp with a soft hairbrush or wipe it gently with a towel, a few times every day to help loosen the buildup.
• Try massaging baby oil or mineral oil onto the crust to help loosen it, then carefully comb the crust away. Go gently to avoid irritating the delicate skin of the scalp. Shampoo afterward so you don’t leave oil on your baby’s scalp — any oil left behind could worsen the condition.
• For severe cases, talk to your pediatrician about using a shampoo specially designed to treat seborrheic dermatitis.
• If the cradle cap gets inflamed, your doctor may recommend a cortisone cream to help control the inflammation.
• Watch for signs that the cradle cap has spread to other parts of the body. It’s common to see flaking or redness on the eyelids, ears, nose, and groin area. If it’s spreading beyond the scalp, see if your doctor recommends treating it.

Whether you treat your baby’s cradle cap or let it wane on its own, your baby’s scalp should be back to normal within a few months — and she’ll be as beautiful as ever
source:http://www.dailyglow.com/hair-problems/cradle-cap.html