Cradle cap (infant seborrheic dermatitis) is scaly patches on a baby's scalp. It isn't serious, but it can cause thick crusting and white or yellow scales. Some babies can also have seborrheic dermatitis in the diaper area or on the face, neck, and trunk. Cradle cap usually clears up within the first year.

Researchers don't know the exact cause of this skin condition. It isn't contagious. It isn't an infection or allergy. Nor is it caused by poor hygiene.

Babies between the ages of 3 weeks and 12 months are at greater risk of getting cradle cap.

Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. They can include dry or greasy yellowish scales on the scalp. The scalp may also appear red. It usually doesn't itch or cause the baby discomfort.

The rash involved with cradle cap is unique. It's usually diagnosed based on a physical exam of your child.

Treatment will depend on your child's symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how bad the condition is.

The problem will go away on its own over time. But most parents want to reduce or get rid of the problem. Treatment may also reduce your anxiety as a parent. Even with treatment, the problem may come back during the baby's first year of life. Treatment is usually effective in helping symptoms. It may include:

• Rubbing the scalp with baby oil or petroleum jelly to soften crusts before washing.
• Frequent shampooing with mild, non-medicated baby shampoo using a soft brush.
• Special shampoo, as prescribed by your child's doctor.
• Corticosteroid cream or lotion for a short time if the problem is really bad or persistent.

Cradle cap is common in young babies. It doesn't point to poor hygiene or lack of care. The following may help prevent the buildup of scales on the scalp:

• Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove the scales from the scalp.
• Shampoo your baby's hair often.
• Apply baby oil to the scalp after shampooing.

Most cases of cradle cap can be treated at home. If the problem doesn't get better, you may ask your doctor to prescribe a shampoo or cream. If the problem still doesn't get better, tell your doctor.

• Cradle cap is scaly patches on a baby's scalp.
• Babies between ages 3 weeks and 12 months are at greater risk of getting it.
• The problem isn't serious and will go away over time.
• Most cases of cradle cap can be treated at home by using a soft-bristled brush, frequent shampooing, and applying baby oil.

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child's doctor:

• Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your doctor gives you for your child.
• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
• Ask if your child's condition can be treated in other ways.
• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
• Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
• If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose of that visit.
• Know how you can contact your child's doctor after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.