How to Get Rid of Cradle Cap?

The safest place on earth is the mother’s lap. The love of a mother is unconditional and she always wants to do best for her baby. But she is the same person who takes so much of tension if she sees symptoms of cradle cap in her baby. But this article will relieve the tension of all mothers as you will find some natural remedies to get rid of cradle cap. Cradle cap is a common skin disease among babies. It can appear as scaly patches on the scalp or the yellow and white flakes which can be greasy. The best part is that it is not contagious and does not cause trouble to the baby. When this cradle cap dries it can rub off easily, but can cause hair loss. These scaly patches can also appear on face, neck, nose, and armpits.

Causes of Cradle Cap:

• Genetic history of allergic conditions like asthma and eczema can be one of the causes.
• Sebum production.
• The antibiotics taken by the mother during pregnancy is also one of the reasons of cradle cap.
• Change in weather.
• Food allergies.
• Certain hormones.

Symptoms of Cradle Cap:

• Greasy patches.
• Yellow or white colored flakes.
• Redness of the skin.
• Hair loss.
• Crusty and thick flakes.

Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Cradle Cap:

1. Coconut Oil to Get Rid of Cradle Cap:

The anti-fungal and antibacterial properties of coconut oil help to fight infections. It acts as a natural moisturizer and nourishes the skin. Coconut oil makes the skin smooth and hence the yellow and white flakes gets loose. The best part is that this oil does cause itching and irritation to the baby’s skin.

How to Use:

• Take a small amount of coconut oil in a bowl.
• Massage the oil on the scalp of the baby.
• Leave it for 20 to 30 minutes.
• Soak a cloth in warm water and clean the flakes.
• You can also use a soft brush to remove that white dandruff.
• Repeat this process daily for encouraging results.

2. Shea Butter to Remove Cradle Cap:

Shea butter is a perfect choice to soothe the red and irritated skin as it contains certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It nourishes the delicate skin of the baby. It is a natural moisturizer with healing properties. Shea butter also helps to get rid of dandruff.

How to Use:

• Take some shea butter in a bowl.
• Apply it on the affected area.
• Use a wet cloth to clean the cradle cap.
• You can also comb out the loosened flakes.
• Do this daily to see the difference.

3. Petroleum Jelly to Treat Cradle Cap:

Petroleum jelly is a natural moisturizer and acts as a barrier to prevent the skin from bacteria and other irritants. It locks the moisture and prevents the skin from drying. It helps to lift up the cradle cap so that it comes out easily with a cloth or comb This is one of the simplest remedies to get rid of cradle cap.

How to Use:

• Massage the petroleum jelly on the head.
• Leave it for about 20 minutes.
• Use a soft brush to scrub the flakes.
• Soak a cloth in warm water and clean the affected area.
• Repeat the process several times a week for better results.

4. Olive Oil to Get Rid of Cradle Cap:

The linoleic and oleic fatty acids present in olive oil make it a perfect choice for baby’s skin. The linoleic fatty acid strengthens the barrier to fight infections and oleic acid makes the layers of baby skin more permeable. It has moisturizing properties that help to soften the flakes.

How to Use:

• Warm a cup of olive oil.
• Massage gently on the forehead.
• Leave it overnight.
• Use a soft brush or a clean cloth to remove the loose particles.
• Do this several times a week.

5. Almond Oil to Remove Cradle Cap:

Almond oil is rich in emollients and suits the baby’s skin. It contains certain fats and vitamins that nourish the skin. Almond oil helps to soften the scales so that they can easily come out while washing the head.

How to Use:

• Massage the almond oil on the head.
• Leave it for about for 15 to 20 minutes.
• Use a soft brush to remove the flakes.
• Wash the head using a shampoo.
• Repeat the process daily to get rid of cradle cap.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar to Get Rid of Cradle Cap:

The antimicrobial properties of apple cider vinegar help to fight infections. The acidic property makes it an amazing choice to get rid of cradle cap. It has various healing properties and is known as a powerhouse because of its various uses.

How to Use:

• Dilute the apple cider vinegar with water.
• Apply it on the affected area.
• Leave it for about 10 to 15 minutes.
• Rinse it off using shampoo and water.
• Repeat the process several times a week.

7. Baking Soda to Remove Cradle Cap:

Baking soda contains mild exfoliate properties which make it perfect to get rid of cradle cap. It has an alkaline nature and oil absorbing properties which help in removing cradle cap.

How to Use:

• Take a bowl and add 2 teaspoons of baking soda.
• Add water to make a thick paste.
• Apply on the affected area.
• Use a soft brush to remove the scales.
• Do this twice a week to get rid of cradle cap.

Precaution: Don’t leave baking soda for too long on the babies scalp as it can cause rashes.The skin of babies is very sensitive.

8. Baby Shampoo to Treat Cradle Cap:

This can be an effective remedy to remove cradle cap without causing skin irritation. It softens the scales and loosens them. Avoid using shampoos that contain sodium lauryl sulfate because it is a harsh foaming agent which will cause irritation to the sensitive skin of the baby.

How to Use:

• Pour water on the baby’s scalp.
• Apply the shampoo and massage for 2 to 3 minutes.
• Use a baby brush to remove the cradle cap.
• Apply the shampoo daily to see the difference.

9. Cradle Cap Brush to Remove Cradle Cap:

The market is full of baby products. For this common skin problem, you can buy a soft brush from the market and gently remove the yellow flakes.

Note: Don’t be too harsh on the skin of the baby as it is very sensitive.

10. Tea Tree Oil to Get Rid of Cradle Cap:

The antibacterial and anti-fungal properties of tea tree oil help to protect the baby’s skin from infection. It also has antiseptic properties that can heal infection and wounds. Tea tree oil is also beneficial for various other conditions such as warts, acne, cuts, and dandruff.

How to Use:

• Take a bowl and add one teaspoon of essential oil.
• Add 4 to 5 drops of tea tree oil in it.
• Massage on the affected area.
• Leave it for about 5 to 10 minutes.
• Wash with water and shampoo.

Precaution: It is very toxic. Protect the eyes of the baby from it.

11. Hydrocortisone Cream to Remove Cradle Cap:

This remedy reduces inflammation and relieves the baby from the redness and dryness of the skin. It helps to fight against skin problems like eczema and cradle cap. You just have to apply a little cream on the affected area.

Precaution: Keep it away from the baby’s head as it contains steroids.

12. Mineral Oil to Cure Cradle Cap:

This is another effective method to get rid of cradle cap. The anti-inflammatory properties of the mineral oil are beneficial for treating cradle cap. It is a good choice because of its medicinal properties. Mineral oil is also mixed in various baby lotions and other baby products.

How to Use:

• Massage the mineral oil on the scalp.
• Leave it for a few hours.
• Rinse off with shampoo.
• Gently rub the scalp to remove the flakes.
• Repeat the process several times a week.

Tips to Prevent Cradle Cap:

• Use an anti-dandruff shampoo.
• Keep the skin moisturized by applying oils.
• Wash the scalp properly so that no traces of soap are left.
• Do not use shampoo very frequently.
• Do regular oil massage.
• Use soft blankets and bed covers for baby.
• Do not keep the head covered during humid weather.
• Use a baby comb with soft bristles.