My baby has cradle cap it looks awful - what causes it and what can I do to get rid of it?.

A Cradle cap can be quite upsetting for parents because of how it looks. Cradle cap is thought to be caused by overactive sebaceous glands in the scalp. Sebaceous glands normally secrete an oily substance called sebum that helps to moisturize the skin, slough off dead skin cells and keep the pores clear. However, in overproduction of sebum, due to its sticky consistency it appears to prevent the normal shedding of skin which results is thick scaly crusts forming on the scalp. Treatment is to apply aqueous cream or baby oil liberally onto your baby's scalp, 2 or 3 times a day this will help to loosen the crusts naturally. Be aware that some oils may contain nuts and are not recommended to use on babies due to the risk of allergy. Never pick at the crusts, this can make your babies head sore and it may become infected. Gentle towel drying or brushing the hair with a soft baby brush will slough off the lose skin cells. If your babies head becomes red, inflamed or starts to weep pus, your baby may have an infection. Contact you health visitor or GP who will assess your baby and prescribe the appropriate medication. If after 7 days your baby's condition has not improved, becomes infected, deteriorates and appears to be spreading to other parts of your baby's body, see your health visitor or GP.

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