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If the scalp is affected (the most common presentation) the parents can try simple measures:

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• Regular washing of the scalp with a baby shampoo, followed by gentle brushing with a soft brush to loosen scales and improve the condition of the skin.

• Softening the scales with baby oil first, followed by gentle brushing, then washing off with baby shampoo.

• Soaking the crusts overnight with white petroleum jelly or a slightly warmed vegetable or olive oil, and shampooing in the morning.

• If these methods do not achieve softening, a greasy emollient or soap substitute, such as emulsifying ointment, can be used, which helps to remove the scales more easily.

• Do not pick the scales off as this can cause an infection • Do not use peanut oil (because of the allergy risk) • Do not use olive oil as research has shown that it may not be suitable for babies’ skin and is linked with infections • Do not use adult shampoo or soap

 

Book a GP appointment if the above simple measures are not effective or: 

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• your baby's cradle cap does not get better after a few weeks of treatment

• your baby has cradle cap all over their body

• the crusts bleed or leak fluid

• the affected areas look swollen

• Bleeding, leaking fluid and swelling could be signs of an infection or another condition like atopic eczema or scabies.

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• NICE advice : a topical imidazole cream (clotrimazole, econazole, or miconazole). The frequency of application and duration of treatment depends on the prescribed topical treatment: 

• Clotrimazole 1% cream: apply 2–3 times daily.

• Econazole 1% cream: apply twice daily.

• Miconazole 2% cream: apply twice daily.

• Treat until symptoms resolve. If symptoms persist longer than 4 weeks with treatment, seek specialist advice