What causes cradle cap in black babies?

The cause of cradle cap isn’t known. One contributing factor may be hormones that pass from the mother to the baby before birth. These hormones can cause too much production of oil (sebum) in the oil glands and hair follicles.

When does a black baby’s hair change?

Between birth and 4 years old, your baby’s hair texture can change considerably, states Deborah R. Lilly, author of “Wavy, Curly, Kinky: The African-American Child’s Hair Care Guide.” Initially, her hair is silky, straight or curly and very soft, but it can become coarser.

Do all newborns get cradle cap?

Cradle cap is a common skin condition in newborns and babies that causes rough patches on their scalp. Babies are known for their soft, smooth skin, but cradle cap is common in newborns.

Is cradle cap a serious condition?

Cradle cap (infant seborrheic dermatitis) is scaly patches on a baby’s scalp. Cradle cap isn’t serious, but it can cause thick crusting and white or yellow scales. Some babies can also have seborrheic dermatitis in the diaper area, and on the face, neck, and trunk. Cradle cap usually clears up within the first year.

How do you treat cradle cap on African American babies?

Cradle cap will typically go away on its own within a few months, but if it bothers you, try shampooing more often and gently brushing your baby’s scalp with a soft brush or massaging it with a terry cloth towel.

What can I put in my newborn’s black hair?

From the time your baby is born, using the simplest most natural products like coconut, avocado, or almond oil are your best choices. Put a little in your palm and run it through your baby’s hair with your fingers.

What gets rid of cradle cap fast?

Cradle cap usually doesn’t require medical treatment, as it usually goes away on its own. In the meantime, wash your baby’s hair once a day with mild baby shampoo. If the scaling is heavy, apply mineral oil to the scalp for a couple of hours before shampooing.

Does Vaseline help cradle cap?

If the scales don’t loosen, consider massaging petroleum jelly onto your baby’s scalp to help lift any stubborn, dry skin. Don’t use baby oil or mineral oil for cradle cap as it can cause more scaly buildup.

Is Vaseline good for cradle cap?

If the scales don’t loosen easily, rub petroleum jelly or a few drops of mineral oil onto your baby’s scalp. Let it soak into the scales for a few minutes, or hours if needed. Then brush and shampoo your baby’s hair as usual. If you leave the oil in your baby’s hair, the cradle cap may get worse.