{"id":1534,"date":"2025-07-21T21:23:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-21T21:23:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/letmommysleep.com\/blog\/?p=1534"},"modified":"2026-09-11T19:30:07","modified_gmt":"2026-09-11T19:30:07","slug":"cradle-cap-eczema-and-infant-acne-explained","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/letmommysleep.com\/blog\/2025\/07\/21\/cradle-cap-eczema-and-infant-acne-explained\/","title":{"rendered":"Cradle Cap, Eczema, and Infant Acne Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

After spending 9 months in the womb, it makes sense that newborns might experience skin conditions in their new environment! This blog Cradle Cap, Eczema, and Infant Acne Explained shares common reasons newborns experience skin irritation and how you can help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Cradle<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cradle Cap, Eczema, and Infant Acne Explained<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What is Cradle Cap?        <\/strong><\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cradle cap is scales and redness on a baby\u2019s scalp.  When this rash occurs on the scalp alone, it\u2019s known as cradle cap.  It may start as scaling and redness of the scalp and can also extend to the face and diaper area, too.   When it does, pediatricians call it seborrheic dermatitis<\/em> (because it occurs where there are the greatest number of oil producing sebaceous glands).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"newborn<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Seborrheic dermatitis is a noninfectious skin condition that\u2019s very common in infants, usually beginning in the first weeks of life and slowly disappearing over a period of weeks or months. It is rarely uncomfortable or itchy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Treatment:        <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cradle cap is not harmful and will typically go away on its own by baby\u2019s first birthday. It can be treated, by washing hair frequently with a mild baby shampoo and using a soft brush to remove the scales. Some doctors recommend a stronger, medicated shampoo or cortisone cream. These may remove the scales quickly but can be irritating to baby\u2019s sensitive skin. Only use them after consulting a pediatrician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is not recommended to use baby oil or mineral oil on cradle cap. Doing so allows the scales to build up on the scalp, particularly over the fontanelle, or soft spot on baby\u2019s head. Sometimes a yeast infection may form on the crease areas of the skin (rarely on the scalp.) If this happens, the area will be red and itchy. Seek the care of a pediatrician who may prescribe an anti-yeast cream.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is infant eczema?        <\/strong><\/em><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Eczema\u00a0presents as red, itchy patches and may be triggered by dryness, allergens, or even saliva. Managing it often means moisturizing, avoiding triggers, and using prescription creams if needed. Also known as atopic dermatitis (AD), is a chronic skin problem that causes red, dry, and itchy rashes. In babies, the rashes usually occur on the face or scalp or folds of skin. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is the most common skin problem treated by pediatric dermatologists. Eczema can be hereditary and occur in conjunction with allergies or asthma. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also baby’s saliva from drooling can provoke irritation. Eczema in babies tends to be worse in the drier, winter months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"infant<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Eczema. See more examples of eczema<\/a> via the Mayo Clinic <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Treatment:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Infant eczema usually clears up before 4 years of age. Before then however, different triggers cause eczema so treatment can vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Parents should contact their pediatrician for specific direction but common non-medical treatments include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n