Cradle Cap Remedies for Children

Modified on Apr 05, 2021

The skin is constantly regenerating itself and producing new skin cells. Typically, the old skin cells fall off and are replenished by the new in a regular, natural pattern. However, sometimes in babies the regeneration process takes place faster than the removal process, leaving behind a rough, crusty rash of old skin on top of the new. This crusting rash is known as cradle cap and is relatively common, even in the healthiest of babies. Cradle cap can be cured with inexpensive home remedies like apple cider vinegar, baking soda, and jojoba oil.


Medically termed infantile seborrheic dermatitis, cradle cap generally presents little more than a rough or scaly scalp. Not generally Itchy for babies, cradle cap is not contagious and generally does not both babies. Common symptoms of the condition include patchy scaling or thick crusts on the scalp, greasy kin, white or yellow flaky patches or scales, excessive skin flaking and, in some cases, mild redness. Periodically confused with infantile eczema, cradle cap is different from eczema in that it does not cause itching as eczema would.

While the specific cause of cradle cap is unknown, the mother’s hormones that pass to the baby just before birth is considered to be one causal factor. An additional cause may include yeast overgrowth, otherwise known as malassezia.

Safe, Natural Cradle Cap Treatments and Remedies

Not a serious medical condition, cradle cap does not generally require medical treatment. Many at home remedies are safe for treating and curing cradle cap. Washing the baby’s head with antibacterial soap, applying apple cider vinegar, and covering the scalp with baby oil are all effective treatment options. Additional options include creating a paste of baking soda and water and applying it to the baby’s head prior to rinsing, pouring cool coffee over the head, and applying jojoba oil to the affected area.

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    List of Remedies for Cradle Cap