Cradle cap意思

"Cradle cap" is a term used to describe a common skin condition in infants that causes yellowish or white scaling on the scalp. It is also known as seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp in infants. The condition is not serious and is usually not itchy or painful for the baby. It is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including the baby's developing sebaceous glands and the presence of a yeast called Malassezia that is normally found on the skin.

Cradle cap is very common and usually clears up on its own within a few weeks or months. In the meantime, it can often be managed by gently massaging baby oil or another mild oil into the scalp to soften the scales, then gently wiping or brushing them off. Over-the-counter shampoos designed for cradle cap can also be effective. It is important to avoid scratching or picking at the scales, as this can cause skin irritation or infection. If cradle cap is severe or does not improve with home treatment, a doctor may recommend a stronger medicated shampoo or topical cream.