How do I care for my newborn’s cradle cap?
Cradle cap often clears over time. Avoid picking the scales and use gentle care that follows current health guidance.
The short answer
The NHS says cradle cap commonly causes greasy, white or yellow scales and often improves over time. Gentle brushing and suitable emollients may help loosen scales. Don’t pick them or use products the NHS advises against.
Recognize the common pattern
The NHS describes cradle cap as greasy, scaly patches that are often white or yellow on a baby’s scalp or face. It can also affect skin folds or the nappy area. The condition is usually not itchy or painful and often gets better over time.
A description or photograph can’t confirm what a skin change is. If the area looks different from the NHS description, is spreading quickly or you’re worried, ask a pharmacist or health professional rather than trying several products.
Use gentle care
The NHS suggests lightly massaging a suitable emollient or coconut oil onto the scalp to loosen scales, then gently brushing with a soft brush and washing with baby shampoo. Follow product directions and ask a pharmacist which product is appropriate.
Don’t pick crusts. The NHS advises against olive oil, peanut oil, soap, adult shampoo and fragranced products for cradle cap. A baby’s skin may need different care if they were born prematurely or have a medical condition.
Know when to seek advice
Ask a GP if cradle cap doesn’t improve after a few weeks of treatment, covers the body, or the crusts bleed, leak fluid or look swollen. These signs may need a professional assessment.
This article summarizes NHS guidance for families in the UK. The correct service and product advice may differ elsewhere. Follow your local health service if your baby seems unwell.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.