Does Breast Milk Help Cradle Cap? Here’s What You Need to Know

Breast milk has always been an impressive, reliable source of nutrition for little ones. It has a reputation for reducing risks of asthma, obesity, diabetes, and respiratory diseases in babies, and can also lower a mother’s chances of dealing with high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But the benefits go beyond wholesome nourishment – you can also apply breast milk topically to reduce skin conditions like diaper rashes, eczema, baby acne, and even seborrheic dermatitis, more commonly known as cradle cap.

What is Cradle Cap?

Before considering breastmilk for cradle cap treatment, you must first understand the condition itself. It is a common skin condition that usually causes thick, greasy scales on the baby’s scalp and forehead. 

However, it can also cause redness and inflammation on other parts of the body such as behind the ears, around the nose, and in the diaper area. In babies, hormonal changes in the body are usually believed to be the cause of cradle cap.

These changes trigger the overproduction of sebum on the skin which leads to excess Malassezia yeast on the skin. The mixture of sebum and yeast causes scaling and inflammation.

Can Breast Milk Help Cradle Cap?

In short, the answer is yes! Breast milk can be considered an effective option for mild cradle cap treatment, but why?

Breast milk is loaded with antibodies, omega-3 fatty acids, and stem cells, all of which can be nourishing for someone dealing with a common skin condition like eczema and generally sensitive skin. 

It’s also proven to be just as effective in helping mother and baby in the early stages of life together; breast milk can be used to reduce diaper rash, nourish cracked nipples, and help remove and prevent cradle cap in the future.

Cradle Cap Treatment

Cradle cap usually gets better on its own before the baby’s first birthday however in some cases it may persist. If you are searching for ways to remove those greasy scales and prevent future build-ups, do the following.

Use a Cradle Cap Shampoo

A medicated cradle cap shampoo that is specially formulated for a baby’s sensitive skin will not only help cleanse the scalp but also help remove the loose scales and prevent new ones from forming by reducing the production of Malassezia yeast on the skin. 

Here is how to use it:

• Wet baby’s scalp and body. 
• Apply the medicated shampoo and body wash on the scalp and other body parts focusing on the areas most affected by cradle cap.
• Gently massage the shampoo and leave it on for a minute or two.
• Thoroughly rinse and make sure to leave no residue behind.
• Do this 2 to 3 times a week or as advised by the doctor.

Brush Away the Flakes

We know those thick scales can be bothersome to look at and you should never pick on scales. However, if you want to get rid of loose scales hanging on the hair or scalp then you can use a cradle cap brush. 

It is a specially formulated soft-bristled, fine-toothed brush that helps in removing excess scales. While shampooing the baby’s scalp use this brush in soft circular motion to gently massage the scalp and remove the scales. 

Use Breast Milk

Some people may want to use it while others won’t, the choice is yours. Breast milk contains antibacterial properties and fats that help soothe and nourish the baby’s skin. You can use it to soften the cradle cap scales.

How to Use Breast Milk for Cradle Cap

While your baby’s cradle cap isn’t painful or annoying, we understand that it’s a condition that is concerning to parents. You can leave your baby’s scalp to heal naturally on its own, but you can also use breast milk alongside medicated baby shampoo. Here’s how:

• Wash the baby’s hair and head with a mild shampoo. Rinse well.
• Add a few drops of breast milk to the head, directly targeting the cradle cap.
• Gently massage the breast milk into the scalp to loosen up the scales.
• Pat your baby’s head dry following the bath. Apply more breast milk as needed.

Best Cradle Cap Shampoo for Babies

Your baby deserves the best. If you’re looking for an effective option for treating cradle cap symptoms, Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo and Body Wash make a great option.

Formulated with safe and effective active ingredient pyrithione zinc, this anti-dandruff shampoo can help you see improvements in your baby’s cradle cap within a few weeks.

It is:

• Dermatologist tested
• Fragrance-free
• Dye-free
• Alcohol-free
• Paraben-free
• Sulfate-free
• BPA free
• Gluten-free
• Cruelty-free
• Vegan

Are you ready to help your baby achieve soft, smooth, and supple hair and skin again? Browse the Happy Cappy Cradle Cap Bundle.

Key Takeaways

• Cradle cap is a common skin condition in babies known as seborrheic dermatitis in adults.
• Seborrheic dermatitis is a severe form of dandruff that causes flakes and scales.
• Cradle cap in babies is caused by a combination of factors such as hormonal changes, excess sebum, and overproduction of Malassezia yeast.
• Yes, breast milk may help soften the cradle cap scales in some babies.
• Cradle cap scales can be easily removed with the help of cradle cap shampoo and brush.

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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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