Baby Dry Scalp - Here’s Why Your Baby Has A Dry Scalp & Treatments

Baby dry scalp is a common occurrence in newborns and can last for months without proper treatment. The most likely culprit for baby dry scalp is cradle cap which is also referred to as infantile seborrheic dermatitis. However, there are other possible causes for dryness to occur such as over washing, fungal infection and scalp psoriasis to name a few.

Baby Dry Scalp
Causes And Treatments Of Baby Dry Scalp
Cradle Cap Is A Leading Cause Of Dry Scalp
2019 Leading Cradle Cap Causes
Understanding Baby Dry Scalp
Baby Dry Scalp Causes
Dry Scalp Prevention

Causes And Treatments Of Baby Dry Scalp

It is understandable to feel worried that your baby has dry scalp. Anything unusual on a baby’s skin is a cause for consternation in parents. There are several causes for dry skin, and determining the trigger can help determine the treatment. For parents who find themselves scratching their heads as to why their little one has dry skin, these causes and their treatments are worth examining.

Cradle Cap Is A Leading Cause Of Dry Scalp

Cradle cap is a common problem in many babies. It is best described as yellow or whitish scales that accumulate on the scalp and flake off with time. Cradle cap tends to disappear on its own, but dry, flaky skin on a baby’s head is a cause for concern and needs to be treated as soon as possible.

Cradle cap often appears when a baby’s sebaceous glands produce excess amounts of oil. This leads to oily patches on the skin which can dry and transform into flakes.

Treating cradle cap begins by applying a vegetable oil such as coconut oil or olive oil on your fingertips. Massage the oil into your baby’s hair and scalp. If vegetable oil is not available, opt for baby oil or petroleum jelly. Leave the oil on for 15 to 30 minutes to soften the flakes so you can remove them with a washcloth. Make sure to be gentle. Use a mild baby shampoo afterward, and wash the oil off thoroughly to avoid worsening the condition of the cradle cap ^[1]. Tea tree oil may also tame the dryness but must be diluted in a carrier oil such as almond or olive oil.

2019 Leading Cradle Cap Causes

When a baby has dry scalp, it is a commonly linked it to cradle cap. Cradle cap is quite frequent in newborns and affects the hair, scalp, eyebrows and the bridge of a baby’s nose.

There is no specific cause of cradle cap currently identified, but there are theorized factors including the following:

Hormones

Mothers may pass certain types of hormones to their baby during pregnancy that cause excessive oil production in the hair follicles and oil glands hence the appearance of cradle cap.

Yeast

Another possible reason why a baby has dry scalp is the presence of yeast called Malassezia. This fungus usually grows in the oil that your baby’s skin produces with bacterial growth. Antifungal treatments are usually effective in taming the problem ^[5].

Poor immune system

When a baby’s immune system is not working properly, the infant is prone to various ailments such as a dry cough, fever and excessive oil production. Offering dry fruits can supplement the vitamins and minerals necessary when a child is at the right age for solids.

Cradle cap is not painful for babies. It is not itchy and does not cause discomfort. However, parents are often worried about cradle cap as it leaves the skin scaly and flaking.

Understanding Baby Dry Scalp

Baby dry scalp is often characterized by a dry and itchy scalp that can cause discomfort. This often happens when you wash your baby’s hair too often at a young age using a baby shampoo containing harsh ingredients. Doctors recommend avoiding giving babies a bath every day as it can cause dry skin.

Fortunately, the treatment for dry scalp is similar to that of cradle cap. Use oils like olive oil to help rejuvenate the dry skin. Use a small amount of oil on your fingertips and massage your little one’s scalp. Apply gentle pressure as you massage in a circular motion. Allow the oil to sit for 15 minutes to soften the dry, flaky scalp. Using a soft baby brush, brush your baby’s scalp and hair in a gentle, circular motion. Use a mild shampoo such as MADE OF organic baby shampoo and body wash to remove the remaining flakes and soothe the irritation and dryness ^[2]. Use dry shampoo on days you do not wash your baby’s hair.

Baby Dry Scalp Causes

There is a difference between cradle cap and overly dry scalp. There is no specific origin of cradle cap, but a dry scalp may be due to an underlying condition such as eczema or a fungal infection. It is also possible that dry skin on the scalp is caused by the pores becoming clogged by sebum or natural oils. This needs to be checked by a doctor. It is also possible a shampoo is causing the blockage of the pores. There are different approaches to treating dry hair and skin depending on what caused it in the first place. Consider looking for a baby shampoo for dry scalp to alleviate the problem ^[6].

Dandruff

If you notice that your baby has dry scalp, keep in mind that this is normal especially during the first few weeks to months. However, dandruff is a rare occurrence in babies as it typically appears in teens and tends to taper off on its own. If your baby has this skin condition, it is possible that poor hygiene has caused it.

There are many factors for dry, itchy scalp to appear in babies including excess oil or the overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus. This fungus causes skin cells on the scalp to shed and white or gray flakes to accumulate on a baby’s head. This skin condition is not contagious or even dangerous. However, it can cause discomfort and leave your baby’s skin dry, itchy and flaking.

Treating the dry scalp conditions caused by dandruff requires time and knowledge. Brush the baby’s dry hair first so that larger and more visible flakes can be removed before you shampoo their hair. Regular shampoo can be used if your little one has mild dandruff, but a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo is recommended when stronger remedies for dry and flaky skin are required. Follow the recommended use for medicated dandruff shampoo on your baby to get rid of the flakes as soon as possible. Use your fingers to massage your baby’s scalp to create a good lather as you cradle their head for added support. Rinse afterward, and do not use conditioners. Gently pat your baby’s head dry.

Some may confuse dandruff with head lice as both have symptoms of itching and flaking. However, there are noticeable differences between the two. The first is that lice are transferred from one person to the next. Be patient when treating your baby’s lice problem since prescription medication is not an option due to their young age.

Try using Selsun Blue when dealing with dandruff on your little one as this shampoo is known to reduce flaking and itching. Selsun Blue Shampoo is typically used by adults to treat dandruff, but Selsun can be used for babies. Dilute the shampoo as it may cause some side effects on your baby’s sensitive skin. Massage the shampoo into your little one’s hair and scalp, and leave it on for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Baby Eczema

Another possible reason why your baby has dry scalp is because of eczema which can be confused with cradle cap. To discern if your baby has eczema or cradle cap, look for red or dry skin that is rough or itchy on the scalp. This may indicate that your baby has eczema and not cradle cap. Eczema can be triggered due to genetics, lack of moisture and the presence of bacteria. Having dry skin can exacerbate the problem ^[3].

A possible solution for eczema on your little one’s scalp is to wash the hair and scalp with lukewarm water to soothe the irritation they are feeling. A baby shampoo for dry scalp that is safe and effective is the MADE OF organic baby shampoo and body wash. These products contain organic ingredients that are perfect for the most sensitive skin. The main goal is to ensure that your baby’s skin is well moisturized to prevent eczema and hair loss.

Scabies

Scabies may also contribute to baby dry scalp. Scabies can appear as a rash on the scalp, feet and hands. This type of infection requires medical attention. If the rash does not disappear or worsens at night, bring your baby to a medical professional for a checkup. Usually, a medicated cream or lotion is used to deal with the itching and cold sores ^[4].

Aside from scabies, a cutaneous horn may develop on the scalp of your little one. This can be a source of concern, but a medical practitioner can inform parents of what steps to take to remove it or determine why it appeared in the first place.

Dry Scalp Prevention

Cradle cap happens from time to time. The good news is that there are preventive measures that may keep cradle cap at bay.

Bathe less

A common reaction to the formation of cradle cap is for parents to bathe their babies regularly to remove the flakes. Unfortunately, this practice strips your baby’s skin of its natural oils, hence the skin goes into overdrive to replace the oils lost. In these instances, cradle cap remains in the same condition. Many physicians recommend choosing a baby shampoo for dry scalp such as MADE OF organic baby shampoo and body wash since it is mild and will not make your baby’s condition worse. In the same fashion as when you wash your hair to treat dry scalp, do not overdo the use of hair products on your baby since they may cause further dryness.

Use a humidifier

A lack of moisture in the air can make your baby’s skin overly dry which can contribute to the appearance of cradle cap. Add more moisture by installing a humidifier in the nursery. This helps regulate oil production, hence the scalp problem will be reduced.

Skip the heat

If you use a hair dryer to dry your baby’s hair and scalp, consider patting the area dry instead.

Apple cider vinegar

This treatment may help cradle cap as apple cider vinegar contains antifungal and probiotic properties which combat the problem. Mix ¼ cup of filtered water and 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar, and use it to wash the affected child’s hair. Massage for a few minutes, and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

Aloe vera

Another natural remedy for your baby’s dry scalp is aloe. The gel of this plant contains soothing and hydrating properties that nourish dry skin. Apply a small amount of gel on the affected parts and massage for a few minutes. Wash it off afterward.

Baby Dry Scalp Resources:
[1] Medline Plus; Dandruff, Cradle Cap, and Other Scalp Conditions, October 16, 2016.
[2] US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health; Skin care for your baby, March 2007.
[3] National Eczema Association; Understanding Your Child’s Eczema.
[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Parasites.
[5] Mayo Clinic; Cradle cap.
[6] Kids Health from Nemours; Cradle Cap, Infantile Seborrheic Dermatitis, Rupal Christine Gupta, MD, August 2014.

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