Symptoms of Cradle Cap
Symptoms of cradle cap are easy to identify, especially for healthcare professionals and experienced parents. Although the appearance of the condition may seem severe, cradle cap does not cause itchiness, pain, or general distress in infants. The condition usually starts within the first few weeks after birth and often resolves by the time the baby is one year old.
Scaly Patches
The most characteristic symptom is the presence of:
Thick, greasy scales that may be white or yellow in colour
Crusty patches on the baby’s scalp, especially on the crown
Flaky skin that may resemble dandruff as it begins to heal
These patches may vary in size and location but are typically confined to the scalp. As the crusts dry and flake, the underlying skin might appear slightly red.
Affected Areas | Symptoms of Cradle Cap
While the scalp is most commonly involved, cradle cap can also spread to:
Eyebrows and eyelids
Behind the ears
Nose creases
Neck folds
Nappy area (in more extensive cases, known as seborrhoeic dermatitis)
Texture and Appearance
The texture is often waxy or oily to the touch. Parents may notice that the scales are difficult to remove and seem to stick to the scalp. In some cases, there may be a slight odour, but this is not due to infection and is not harmful.
No Itching or Pain
Unlike eczema or allergic rashes, cradle cap is not itchy or painful. Babies usually do not react when the affected areas are touched or cleaned. This is one of the key distinguishing factors from other infant skin conditions.
Hair Loss
Some babies may temporarily lose hair where the scales form. This is due to the flakes lifting the hair shafts as they come off. However, the hair almost always regrows fully once the cradle cap has cleared.
In summary, symptoms of cradle cap include thick, greasy scales on the scalp and surrounding areas, without itching or discomfort. Although it may look unpleasant, the condition is entirely benign and poses no risk to the baby’s health.
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