Dandruff is somewhat rare in babies, but cradle cap is not only much more common but also can look a lot like dandruff. It can also look a bit like scales are forming on your baby's head, and the scales might be yellowish or brown. Your baby may also have oily and thick crusty patches on the scalp. If this is the case, it is likely that your baby has a pretty common ailment: cradle cap.
My baby looks like he/she has dandruff. What is it?
Dandruff is somewhat rare in babies, but cradle cap is not only much more common but also can look a lot like dandruff. It can also look a bit like scales are forming on your baby's head, and the scales might be yellowish or brown. Your baby may also have oily and thick crusty patches on the scalp. If this is the case, it is likely that your baby has a pretty common ailment: cradle cap.
Is cradle cap dangerous? When will cradle cap go away?
Cradle cap is pretty much harmless to babies. It can certainly be ugly, especially during the first 1-3 months of your baby's life, but it will usually go away on its own before your baby is a year old. Cradle cap is not dangerous, and will not harm your baby.
What causes cradle cap?
It is actually unknown why babies get cradle cap, but some believe that cradle cap can result from the hormones that are passed from mother to baby during the third trimester of pregnancy. In fact, cradle cap is believed to be caused by a similar mechanism to what is thought to cause baby acne: hormones passed from the mother to the baby make the baby's oil glands over-active. This is just a theory, there is no known concrete cause of cradle cap. 
How to treat cradle cap?
Most pediatricians will likely tell you not to do anything about it. However, if the cradle cap really bothers you, try shampooing your baby's hair 2-4 times a week with a mild shampoo like this one, brushing the hair with a soft brush (like this one) or rubbing a soft towel through the hair.
Some people also find that rubbing their baby's head with olive oil or almond moisturizing oil can help get rid of cradle cap. Usually people rub on the oil, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, use a soft hair brush on the scalp, and then lightly wash off the oil with a mild baby shampoo.
Your pediatrician may also be able to recommend some other treatments such as cortisone cream or special shampoo, especially if the cradle cap spreads and makes your baby uncomfortable.
How to prevent cradle cap.
Once cradle cap goes away, it is unlikely to come back. There is no sure-fire way, however, to prevent cradle cap in the first place. Some do believe that frequently shampooing your baby's hair will help prevent it. Try shampooing about 2-4 times per week (maybe every other day can be your new routine).
Cradle Cap Pictures
A dozen photos of cradle cap. When looking through these pictures of cradle cap, remember to always ask your doctor before beginning any treatment. For a full explanation of cradle cap causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options, see our article here.
Click any Picture to Enlarge!
Treatment Option 1: Aveeno Baby Wash & Shampoo with Natural Oat Extract
Treatment Option 2: Scalp Massaging Brush for Cradle Cap
