Cradle cap, also known as seborrheic dermatitis is a common condition in young babies, in which dry white or yellow scales form a crusty cap on the scalp. The condition may be thought of as a mild form of eczema (scaly skin inflammation). In rare cases, the condition can spread to the face, or to the body, where it can cause eczema in the nappy region (the groin) and the armpits.

Wash your baby's hair daily with a mild baby shampoo as soon as any sign of cradle cap appears. If the condition gets worse soak the crusts overnight in warm olive oil, sunflower cooking oil or baby oil. Comb the hair with a fine-toothed comb in the morning. When the scales have been removed wash the head with baby shampoo or a special shampoo for cradle cap treatment. You may need to repeat this procedure several times.

If the treatment does not work, or if the baby has eczema on the face or body, consult a doctor. The doctor will probably suggest a treatment similar to the one described above. If the baby has a severe attack, the doctor may choose to treat it with a weak hydrocortisone cream, possibly in combination with a special shampoo. Severe cases are usually referred to a skin specialist.