Wash the baby's hair and scalp to prevent cradle cap

Gently wash the baby's scalp during each bath using a mild baby shampoo and a soft-bristle brush or washcloth. This helps prevent and manage cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), which causes flaky, yellowish scales on the scalp. Cradle cap is harmless and common in infants under 3 months.

Steps

1. Wet the baby's head with warm water using a cupped hand or damp cloth
2. Apply a small amount of mild baby shampoo and gently massage the scalp with your fingertips or a soft brush
3. Use gentle circular motions to loosen any flaky scales without picking or scraping
4. Rinse thoroughly, shielding the baby's eyes with your hand
5. Pat dry gently with a towel

Tips

• For stubborn cradle cap, apply a small amount of mineral oil or petroleum jelly to the scalp 15 minutes before the bath to soften scales
• Do not pick at scales, as this can irritate the skin and increase risk of infection
• Cradle cap typically resolves on its own by 6-12 months of age
• Consult your pediatrician if the scalp appears red, inflamed, or if the condition spreads beyond the scalp