Question

My 3 months old kid develops yellow crusts over his scalp. What is it and what can I do about it?

Answer

Cradle cap often presents as thick yellow crusts usually over the scalp. In more severe cases, it could appear on the eyebrows, behind the ears and on the neck . It commonly appears in the first 3 months of life. Parents do not have to worry unduly as cradle cap is temporary, usually resolving after a few weeks, and is harmless. The condition is usually not itchy and most babies are unaware of the problem. Cradle cap is not contagious and is not caused by an infection or allergy.

The exact cause of cradle cap is unknown. One possible cause may be due to excess sebum produced by oil glands in the skin, trapping skin flakes which, with time, stick together and form a crust. High levels of maternal hormones crossing the placenta before baby’s birth as well as parents’ fear of thoroughly cleaning the region over the soft spot of the scalp may be other causes.

Occasionally, the skin under the crusts may become infected and this skin becomes red and inflammed. It is important to seek medical attention if your baby is unwell (e.g. feverish, irritable), if the cradle cap lasts more than 2 weeks with treatment or spreads to other body parts.

You can treat this condition by washing daily with a mild hypoallergenic shampoo along with soft brushing to remove the flakes. Massaging the scalp with baby oil or mineral oil may help to loosen the crusts hence easing removal.

Source: Oh Ching Ching, Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore

More information and advice can be obtained from your pharmacist. Send your questions to sthealth@sph.com.sg.