Cradle cap: what the scaly patches are and how to clear them
In this article
Cradle cap is the greasy, white or yellow scaly patches on a young baby's scalp. Doctors call it infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis, and the NHS describes it as a harmless skin condition that's common in babies. It is not caused by poor hygiene and it cannot be caught from other babies. Most cases clear up on their own within months, with gentle washing to help the scales lift.
| What it is | Seborrhoeic dermatitis on the scalp |
|---|---|
| Looks like | Greasy white or yellow scales, sometimes a crust |
| Starts | Between 3 weeks and 2 months, the AAP says |
| How common | 70% of three-month-olds have it, the AAP says |
| Clears | Usually by 6 to 12 months, KKH says |
| Catching | No, it is not contagious |
What causes cradle cap
No one is completely sure. KKH says the oil glands in a baby's skin are overactive because of the mother's hormones still circulating after birth, and a natural yeast called Malassezia grows in the extra oil. That causes redness and a build-up of skin cells, which you see as scales.
The AAP is firm on what does not cause it: not an allergy, not an infection, and not poor hygiene. You have not done anything wrong. The NHS adds that it cannot be caught from other babies.
The scales are usually on the scalp, but KKH says the same condition can show up on the eyebrows, ears, back of the neck and nappy area.
How to lift the scales at home
Treatment is optional. The AAP says you don't need to treat cradle cap, but a few steps help the scales come away.
- Wash the hair with a mild baby shampoo. KKH suggests daily, the AAP every other day.
- Soften thick scales first with a little oil or moisturiser, then shampoo it out.
- Brush gently with a soft brush or baby comb.
- Do not pick at the scales. KKH and the NHS both say picking raises the risk of infection.
Brushing over the soft spot is fine. The AAP says a thick, durable membrane protects the brain there. Some hair may come away with the scales, and the NHS says it soon grows back. Our cradle cap and baby hair loss guide walks through it step by step.
The olive oil question
Singapore and UK sources disagree here. KKH suggests olive oil on thick scales for 30 minutes to 1 hour before shampooing, and HealthHub suggests leaving it on for a few hours. The NHS says not to use olive oil, because it may not be suitable for skin, and suggests an emollient (moisturiser) or coconut oil instead. The NHS also says to skip peanut oil, because of the allergy risk, as well as soap, adult shampoo and anything with perfume.
If you are unsure which to use, ask the nurse at your polyclinic or a pharmacist.
How long it lasts, and when to see a doctor
HealthHub says cradle cap usually disappears after 1 to 2 months. KKH says babies usually outgrow it by 6 to 12 months, and the AAP says most cases have cleared by age 1, though some toddlers keep a little flaking. Washing the hair often once it clears helps stop it coming back, the AAP says.
HealthHub says to see a doctor if it does not go away and seems to be spreading. The NHS adds these signs: no better after a few weeks of treatment, cradle cap all over the body, crusts that bleed or leak fluid, or skin that looks swollen. Those can point to an infection or eczema. KKH notes that some babies with this condition go on to develop eczema, especially with a family history of eczema, allergic rhinitis or asthma. For stubborn cases the doctor may suggest a medicated shampoo or cream.
Frequently asked questions
What is cradle cap?
It is a common, harmless scaly rash on a baby's scalp, also called infantile seborrhoeic dermatitis. The AAP says it usually starts between three weeks and two months after birth.
Is cradle cap caused by poor hygiene?
No. The AAP says it is not caused by poor hygiene, an allergy or an infection. Regular gentle washing helps the scales lift, but dirt is not the cause.
Can I use olive oil on cradle cap?
Sources differ. KKH and HealthHub suggest olive oil to soften the scales, while the NHS says not to use it and suggests an emollient or coconut oil. Never use peanut oil. Ask your polyclinic nurse if you are unsure.
Will cradle cap make my baby's hair fall out?
A few hairs may come away with the scales. The NHS and the AAP both say the hair grows back.
Related terms
- Fontanelle (Soft Spot): A soft, membrane-covered gap between a baby's skull bones. The one on top usually closes by 12 to 18 months.
- Vernix (Vernix Caseosa): The white, cheesy coating on a newborn's skin at birth. It moisturises the skin, so leave it to soak in.
- Neonate (Newborn): The medical word for a newborn baby in the first 28 days of life.
- Polyclinic: A public primary care clinic with subsidised fees, where Singapore families can take children for jabs and checks.
- NHS - Cradle cap (read 9 November 2026)
- AAP (HealthyChildren.org) - What is Cradle Cap? (read 9 November 2026)
- KKH (via SingHealth) - Neonatal Rashes (read 9 November 2026)
- HealthHub - Guide to Common Infant Conditions (read 9 November 2026)
- AAP (HealthyChildren.org) - How Your Newborn Looks (read 9 November 2026)
