Can I apply breast milk on my baby’s head?

Yes, there is no harm in putting breast milk on your baby’s head. Its fatty acids and natural antibacterial properties help moisturize the scalp, especially for cradle cap and eczema.

How to get rid of cradle cap ASAP?

The best and fastest way to get rid of cradle cap is to use a medicated cradle cap shampoo that contains pyrithione zinc as an active ingredient 2 to 3 times a week.

Can I put breast milk on my baby’s face?

Breast milk is full of healthy fats that help nourish and moisturize the baby’s skin. You can use a soft cotton ball dip it in breast milk and apply it gently onto the baby’s face. This will also help soothe any rashes or redness on their face.

Can breast milk cure cradle cap?

No, there is no permanent cure for cradle cap. In some cases it may reappear as the baby grows older. However, you can soothe the cradle cap symptoms with breast milk and it may also help soften and remove the scales.

Putting Together Your Own Cradle Cap Kit

Table Contents

If you have a new baby or one on the way, you should put together a cradle cap kit. Preparing, just in case, can help you to remove cradle cap quickly if you need to. But what should be included in your cradle cap kit? We have your answer in this blog.

What is Cradle Cap?

Cradle cap is known as a very common and temporary skin condition that newborns often develop. The correct term for it is “Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis.” It’s a baby version of the severe dandruff that many adults experience.

What may cause new parents alarm is that cradle cap doesn’t LOOK like dandruff. It’s often thickened white, yellow, or brown patches of crusty skin on a baby’s scalp and eyebrows. These scaly patches aren’t a sign that you’ve done anything wrong, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t help.

Treatment for cradle cap

Cradle cap treatments can range from doing nothing and allowing it to clear up on its own or to using a specially formulated cradle cap shampoo. Some of your close friends may recommend using baby oil or even olive oil, but those may not be best for your baby’s sensitive skin.

Your friends have good intentions, but having your own cradle cap kit already prepared makes the most sense. You can say confidently, “Thanks, I got this!” If you are wondering what to put in your cradle cap treatment kit, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3. All you need is the essential cradle cap products, and we have them for you at Happy Cappy.

Here are the most important things to add to your kit.

Cradle Cap Shampoo

The best and most essential product for your kit is a gentle medicated shampoo for cradle cap, like Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo and Body Wash. That’s not just our opinion. It was named “Best Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo for Babies” by verywell health in 2024.

Unlike adult dandruff shampoos, it is specially made to reduce the symptoms of cradle cap on baby’s sensitive skin. It is free from any skin-irritating chemicals such as fragrance, paraben, sulfate, or phthalates. It contains pyrithione zinc as an active ingredient, which is very effective in reducing flakes and scales.

Cradle Cap Brush

Many websites and parenting blogs suggest using a scrub or washcloth to remove the scales from the scalp. These can be helpful; however, they can also cause harm to the baby’s sensitive scalp, especially when you rub or massage them vigorously.

Instead, it is a better idea to use a cradle cap brush. Dr. Eddie has formulated a BPA-free, soft-bristled silicone brush to remove excess flakes and scales from the baby’s scalp. It is very easy to use and improves blood circulation on the scalp, helping your baby relax and sleep well.

Soft Washcloth

You’ll want a soft and clean washcloth. Make sure your washcloth is big enough for the baby. It can be used during bathtime to gently wash your baby’s skin.

Babies have sensitive skin and can be easily irritated even by water, which is why you can use a washcloth to wash the baby, especially in the first few weeks. When choosing a washcloth, get the one that is made with soft, absorbent, and hypoallergenic material.

How to Use Baby Cradle Cap Treatment Kit

This is your step-by-step guide to using the cradle cap kit correctly to get the best results and reduce those thick, greasy scales.

Step 1

Bath your baby with warm water to wet their scalp and body. Then gently massage the medicated cradle cap shampoo and body wash, focusing more on the areas of the body affected by cradle cap symptoms.

Step 2

While the shampoo is still on the baby’s scalp, use a cradle cap brush in gentle circular motions to soften and remove those excess loose scales.

Step 3

Rinse the scalp with water and make sure that you don’t leave any residue of shampoo behind. Use a wash cloth to gently clean the body Then use a soft towel to pat dry their skin.

Step 4

This is an additional yet essential step that should be included in your baby’s skincare routine. Use a baby moisturizing cream to moisturize the skin. Use it immediately after the bath when the skin is still a little damp.

Also, moisturize the baby’s skin 2 to 3 times daily to keep it hydrated and to prevent other skin conditions like dry skin and eczema.

Repeat this routine 2 to 3 times a week or as advised by the doctor to see visible results.

Prevent Cradle Cap in Babies

Even though cradle cap is caused by something that is out of your control, there are a few things that you can do to reduce the chances of its recurrence.

Keep the baby’s scalp clean to prevent any build-ups.
Do not overwash the baby’s scalp and skin, give them a bath a few times a week.
Don’t use any products that contain harsh or skin-irritating ingredients.
Use warm or cool water instead of hot for baths.
Dress the baby in soft breathable clothes.
Keep their skin hydrated with the help of a moisturizer.
Use a gentle brush to comb the hair and stimulate circulation.
Keep the diaper area clean, dry, and moisturized as much as possible.

Conclusion

Assembling a cradle cap kit beforehand is an effective way to manage this common skin condition that causes thick, greasy scales on the scalp and redness on other parts of the body.

With the help of the right cradle cap products and consistent care, you can easily reduce the appearance of cradle cap symptoms in babies. To complete your cradle cap kit, and to help your baby’s skin feel better, shop our products today! Try our 3-step Baby Skincare Routine Bundle to keep your baby’s skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela

Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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What is the best thing to use for cradle cap?

The best way to reduce the symptoms of cradle cap is to use a medicated shampoo that contains pyrithione zinc at least 2 to 3 times a week. Leave it on the scalp for a few minutes before rinsing it.

Can you comb out cradle cap?

Yes, you can comb or brush your baby’s scalp if they have cradle cap. Using a special cradle cap brush can help remove loose scales, promote circulation, and relax the baby.

How often should I wash the baby’s scalp with cradle cap?

Wash your baby’s scalp with a cradle cap shampoo for babies 2 to 3 times a week, or consult your pediatrician if the scaling is severe.

What makes a cradle cap worse?

Leaving oil on your baby’s scalp will make their cradle cap worse. Oil provides a breeding ground for Malassezia yeast, which can lead to more itching, scaling, and inflammation.