Check if your baby has cradle cap

The main symptom of cradle cap is patches of greasy, scaly skin.

It's usually found on the scalp and face, but sometimes affects the nappy area. It can look like:

• patches of white or yellow greasy scales on the scalp and face that form a crust which might flake off
• small, dry flakes of skin on the nappy area

The scales look similar on all skin tones. But the skin under the scales may look pink or red if your baby has white skin, or lighter or darker than the surrounding skin if your baby has brown or black skin.

It is not itchy or painful and does not bother your baby.

The cause of cradle cap is not clear, but it cannot be caught from other babies.

Things you can do to help with cradle cap

A pharmacist can help with cradle cap

You can ask a pharmacist about:

• an emollient you can use on your baby's scalp
• unperfumed baby shampoos
• barrier creams to use on your baby's nappy area, if it's also affected