Dandruff, medically called seborrheic dermatitis, typically causes flaky skin on the scalp. In infants, it's sometimes called cradle cap.
The ADAM Encylopedia says seborrheic dermatitis -- which isn't dangerous, contagious or caused by poor hygiene -- may have other symptoms:
- In addition to the scalp, flaky skin also may appear around the nose and lips, behind and inside the ears, on the trunk of the body, on the eyelids or the eyebrows.
- Large flat patches or a skin rash.
- Skin that appears oily.
- Scaly skin that may be white or yellow.
- Itchy skin.
- Loss of hair.
- Mild skin redness.
Health Tip: Treating Cradle Cap
Red, scaly skin on a new baby's scalp could be seborrheic dermatitis, also called cradle cap.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests how to help clear baby's flaky scalp:
- Wash baby's hair with a mild shampoo, and gently scrub the scalp.
- If your pediatrician says it's OK, use a medicated shampoo.
- Use a soft brush to gently brush baby's hair and remove scales from the scalp.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the head. Avoid baby oil, which isn't effective for this purpose.
- Use 1 percent hydrocortisone cream on baby's scalp, if your pediatrician recommends it.
- Shampoo regularly to help prevent cradle cap from coming back.
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