Cradle cap in newborns: causes, treatments and prevention

They appear as whitish or yellowish areas, of varying thickness, which may have a greasy texture or, conversely, a dry and flaky one. These small crusts often adhere to the scalp and may sometimes form small flakes that detach from the skin. An isolated patch of cradle cap can sometimes appear within the first few weeks of life, before spreading or multiplying.

The most commonly affected areas are:

• the scalp (particularly at the top of the head),
• the eyebrows,
• the area between the eyebrows,
• and sometimes the ears or forehead.

Although they may look striking visually, they generally cause neither pain nor itching, and do not affect the wellbeing or sensitive skin of babies.

Cradle cap is often confused with other skin conditions such as:

• atopic eczema: which causes red patches, widespread redness, often dry and sometimes accompanied by irritation and itching.
• psoriasis: rarer in newborns, but which presents as clearly defined, red patches covered in white scales.
• or even thebaby acne. 

Cradle cap, by contrast, is painless, non-inflammatory, and its greasy or dry appearance is quite distinctive.

Excessive sebum production

At birth, a newborn's body is still under the influence of maternal hormones transmitted during pregnancy. These hormones can temporarily stimulate the sebaceous glands in the skin, particularly those of the scalp. The result: a higher than necessary production of sebum (a natural oily substance).

This excess sebum creates an environment conducive to the appearance of cradle cap, by preventing dead skin cells from shedding normally from the skin's surface. They then accumulate in yellowish or whitish patches visible on the surface.

A yeast naturally present on newborn skin (Malassezia)

Another cause often associated with cradle cap is the presence of microscopic yeasts called Malassezia. These yeasts are naturally present on the skin of all humans, including newborns. But in some babies, they can multiply more easily in a sebum-rich environment, thereby contributing to the formation of these well-known patches of redness.

It is not an infection or a lack of hygiene, but simply a temporary imbalance in the skin.

Is it contagious or dangerous for the baby?

Cradle cap can look alarming, but it poses no health risk to your baby.

Good news: cradle cap is not contagious. It is not caused by an infection, an allergy, or a lack of hygiene. You can continue to cuddle, wash, and brush your baby's hair as normal — with no risk of "transmission" to other children or to yourself.

What's more, cradle cap is not painful. In the vast majority of cases, your baby won't even notice it's there!

Here is a simple routine to follow:

• Moisturise the scalp well with a gentle vegetable oil (sweet almond, coconut, olive or jojoba oil) or a neutral cream. Apply a small amount to the crust and leave for 15 to 30 minutes to soften the area.
• Then wash with a gentle cleansing product suited to babies' delicate skin. Massage the scalp softly with your fingertips to avoid irritating the skin.
• Brush with a soft baby brush after the bath to gently remove any loosened crust residue. There is no need to force off any patches that remain stuck — patience is the best ally!

Establish a simple, regular care routine

• Wash your baby's scalp regularly with an ultra-gentle, fragrance-free, soap-free shampoo. Washing every 2 to 3 days is sufficient to prevent the build-up of sebum and dead skin cells.
• Gently massage your baby's scalp during bath time to stimulate microcirculation and encourage skin renewal.
• Avoid hats or caps that are too warm for extended periods, especially indoors. Excess heat and moisture can encourage the proliferation of the yeast responsible for cradle cap.

Choose suitable products

• Choose hypoallergenic, fragrance-free cleansing products with organic, naturally derived ingredients, formulated for infant skin, with a short ingredient list.
• Avoid oils or rich creams not suitable for paediatric use, as they can intensify the occlusive effect.

And above all… don't overdo it

There is no need to use multiple products or to "treat" a healthy scalp continuously. The best prevention is gentleness and patience: your baby's body is still adjusting, and the balance of their skin will naturally settle over the coming months.

If you are unsure which product is right for your baby, do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist or paediatrician for advice. They will be able to guide you towards natural, safe, and effective products for treating cradle cap gently.

Cradle cap is common, benign, and has no impact on your baby's health. Although its appearance can be surprising, it is neither painful nor contagious, and often disappears spontaneously over time. A gentle routine, a few simple steps, and a little patience are generally all it takes to clear it up.

And if you have the slightest doubt, or if certain areas are changing in an unusual way, never hesitate to speak to your paediatrician or GP. You will be reassured and guided with complete confidence.