There’s nothing quite like the super-soft skin of a small baby but during their first year, many infants will develop a common condition called cradle cap.

 

Cradle cap (seborrhoeic dermatitis) is a rash that generally shows up as a red area on a baby’s scalp, covered with yellow, scaly patches. This non-infectious skin condition is a form of eczema that usually begins during the first few weeks of life, slowly disappearing over a period of weeks or even several months.

 

The condition is rarely uncomfortable or itchy but while it usually doesn’t cause any harm to babies, cradle cap can be unsightly and distressing for parents. Over time, the scales become flaky and rub off easily, sometimes with baby’s hair attached – something that can especially frighten first-time mums.

 

In the majority of cases, frequent shampooing with a mild baby shampoo can prevent cradle cap from coming back once it has cleared up. A stronger medicated shampoo may be needed in some cases, but seek the advice of your doctor regarding the use of these.

 

Most children outgrow cradle cap by the time they are one, however, medical advice should be sought if baby’s skin becomes inflamed or the dry skin spreads to other areas of the body. 

 

 

Here are a few tips to try when dealing with cradle cap.

 

Wash their hair

 

Washing your baby’s head can stop overproduction of oil which is thought to be one of the reasons behind cradle cap. A tiny drop of baby shampoo once a week should be enough to stop it getting any worse or even stop it from happening. However, it is important you ensure that all shampoo is washed out properly.

 

Massage in some oil

 

Colief Baby Scalp Oil naturally relieves the symptoms of cradle cap.  The soothing oil can be massaged into the scalp to help remove dry skin and flakes, gently restoring your baby’s scalp to its flake-free state. Suitable for use on infants of three months upwards, Colief Baby Scalp Oil is enriched with hydrating rosehip oil, healing chamomile, and nourishing Vitamin E to repair and protect tender skin.

 

Brush it away

 

By rubbing some baby cream onto their head you can soften it enough to simply brush it away with a baby comb. Again, make sure you wash away any residue to ensure there is no build up of oil to clog that can clog their pores.

 

Colief Baby Scalp Oil is available in pharmacies nationwide (RRP £5.99 for 30ml).

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