Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Pediatrician
Content reviewed against published AAP, AAP, NIH guidelines
Last reviewed:
Baby skin is sensitive and changes frequently. If you are noticing cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), here is what you need to know.
The short answer
Cradle cap is a very common, harmless condition that causes yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on your baby's scalp. It is not caused by poor hygiene, it does not bother your baby, and it almost always clears up on its own within the first several months of life.
Key takeaways
- Cradle cap is a very common, harmless condition that causes yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on your baby's scalp. It is not caused by poor hygiene, it does not bother your baby, and it almost always clears up on its own within the first several months of life.
- Usually normal when: Yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on the scalp that do not seem to bother your baby
- Call your doctor if: The affected areas are cracked, bleeding, or oozing pus, suggesting a secondary infection
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
“Eczema is very common in babies and children. About 1 in 10 children will develop eczema, typically starting in the first few months of life.”
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What Parents Should Know
According to AAP, NIH guidelines, cradle cap is a very common, harmless condition that causes yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on your baby's scalp. It is not caused by poor hygiene, it does not bother your baby, and it almost always clears up on its own within the first several months of life. At 0-3 months, cradle cap most commonly appears in the first few weeks of life. You may notice thick, yellowish or brownish crusty patches on the scalp, and sometimes in the eyebrows, behind the ears, or in skin folds. It is thought to be caused by leftover maternal hormones stimulating oil glands. It does not itch or cause your baby any discomfort. It is generally considered normal when yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on the scalp that do not seem to bother your baby. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if the affected areas are cracked, bleeding, or oozing pus, suggesting a secondary infection.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
0-3 months
Cradle cap most commonly appears in the first few weeks of life. You may notice thick, yellowish or brownish crusty patches on the scalp, and sometimes in the eyebrows, behind the ears, or in skin folds. It is thought to be caused by leftover maternal hormones stimulating oil glands. It does not itch or cause your baby any discomfort.
3-6 months
Most cases of cradle cap begin to improve by this age. Gentle daily washing with a mild baby shampoo and soft brushing of the scalp can help loosen and remove scales. You can also massage a small amount of mineral oil or petroleum jelly into the scalp before bath time to help soften thick patches.
6-12 months
By this age, cradle cap has typically resolved. If it persists or seems to be spreading or becoming red and inflamed, it is worth mentioning to your pediatrician, as it may overlap with eczema or require a medicated shampoo.
12 months+
Cradle cap occasionally persists into toddlerhood but this is uncommon. Persistent, widespread, or recurrent scaly patches after the first year may be a different form of dermatitis and should be evaluated by your child's doctor.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if cradle cap is spreading to the face, neck, or diaper area.
- Mention if the affected skin is becoming red, swollen, or weeping.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on the scalp that do not seem to bother your baby
- Mild flaking that comes off when you gently brush the scalp
- Small patches behind the ears, in the eyebrows, or on the forehead
- Gradual improvement over weeks to months with gentle daily care
- Cradle cap is spreading to the face, neck, or diaper area
- The affected skin is becoming red, swollen, or weeping
- Cradle cap persists beyond 6-8 months despite regular gentle care
- You notice your baby scratching at the patches or seeming uncomfortable
- The affected areas are cracked, bleeding, or oozing pus, suggesting a secondary infection
- Your baby develops a widespread red, weeping rash along with fever or irritability
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that yellowish, greasy, scaly patches on the scalp that do not seem to bother your baby — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At 0-3 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products on your baby's skin. Avoid over-bathing — 2-3 baths per week is usually sufficient.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if the affected areas are cracked, bleeding, or oozing pus, suggesting a secondary infection.
Related Resources
Baby Skin Conditions Guide
Visual guide to common baby skin conditions, rashes, and when to see a doctor.
Month-by-Month Development
Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.
When to Call the Doctor
General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.
Frequently asked questions
Is cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) normal?
When should I call the doctor about cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis)?
When is cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) normal?
What causes cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis)?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis)?
Is cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) normal at 0-3 months?
Is cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) normal at 3-6 months?
Should I go to the ER for cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis)?
Does cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) go away on its own?
References
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis).
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if cradle cap is spreading to the face, neck, or diaper area.
- Mention if the affected skin is becoming red, swollen, or weeping.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Cradle cap is spreading to the face, neck, or diaper area
- The affected skin is becoming red, swollen, or weeping
- Cradle cap persists beyond 6-8 months despite regular gentle care
Urgent signs to report immediately
- The affected areas are cracked, bleeding, or oozing pus, suggesting a secondary infection
- Your baby develops a widespread red, weeping rash along with fever or irritability
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis) are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if the affected areas are cracked, bleeding, or oozing pus, suggesting a secondary infection.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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