Cradle Cap

Cradle Cap

Cradle Cap, also known as seborrhoeic eczema, is commonly seen in young babies, although by no means exclusively. It is a form of dermatitis in which crusting, greasy scales form on the top of the head. It is usually first noticed when the baby is two to three months old.

The underlying cause is largely unknown but is linked to over-production of a substance known as sebum (oil) by sebaceous glands. Sebum is oily in consistency and is secreted by the body to reduce evaporation of fluid from the skin surface.

Children with Cradle Cap are usually otherwise well and not distressed by their condition. There are no serious complications and the condition usually improves as the baby gets older.

Complementary Health Advice

Herbal Therapy

• Add 2 drops of tea tree oil to a mild shampoo

Homeopathy

• After washing the head in a mild shampoo, try calendula.

Aromatherapy

• Try a blend of lavender oil in apricot kernel or almond oil, or rub olive or almond
  oil into the hair at night and comb through gently the next morning to remove the
  scales.

The following complementary therapies can be used in the treatment of Cradle Cap:
Aromatherapy, Herbal Medicine, Homeopathy, Naturopathy.