Seborrheic Dermatitis (CRADLE CAP)
 Seborrheic dermatitis is a recurrent, scaly rash. It is commonly known as dandruff in adults and cradle cap in babies. It primarily affects the scalp, but it can involve the face, ches, ears, eyebrows, and folds of skin in teh arms, legs, and groin. Though the cause is unkown, seborrheic dermatitis may be related to heredity, an abnormal production of sebum (oil), a fungus (Pityrosporum ovale), Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, spinal injuries, or maternal hormones. Seborrheic dermatitis more commonly affects men than women. Outbreaks are usually worse during the winter months.
Symptoms may include:
- Red and oily skin
- White or yellowish flakes of skin
- Possible skin inflammation (swelling, tenderness, warmth)
- Itching
What your doctor can do:
- Diagnose the condition by asking about your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and order laboratory blood tests or a biopsy (removal and study of a small amount of tissue) in chronic cases that do not respond to treatment.
- Prescribe a topical steroid cream for samll areas, non-prescription shampoos (containing tar preparations, selenium sulfide, sulfur or salicylic acid), anti-fungal agents, or prescription shampooos containing ketoconazole (anti-fungal).
- Prescribe a mild steroid shampoo for treating babies
What you can do:
- Apply baby oil or olive oil to scalp. Let soak for 5-10 minutes
- Rough up scales with baby brush or wash cloth
- Shampoo using a gentle baby shampoo
- Use a clean baby brush to brush away scales
- Be sure to remove all oil as residual oil can make cradle cap worse
- Repeat every three days or every other day, as needed.
What you can expect:
- There is no cure for seborrheic dermatitis
- With treatment, the symptoms can be controlled
- Some complications may include bacterial skin infections and chronic seborrheic dermatitis
Contact your doctor if your child develops symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis or if the condition worsens despite the treatment.
Contact Lake Area Pediatrics at
(936) 582-5620
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