#asktheexpert mam my baby is 2 months old and he has very itchy scalp and dandruff problem so what to do

Question

Accepted Answer

If your 2-month-old baby has an itchy scalp and dandruff, it's likely due to cradle cap, which is a common condition in infants. Cradle cap, or seborrheic dermatitis, is a harmless condition where the skin on the scalp becomes greasy, scaly, and sometimes itchy. It typically appears as yellowish or brownish patches and can cause dandruff-like flakes.

Here's what you can do to manage it:

1. Gentle Washing: Wash your baby's scalp with a mild baby shampoo. Avoid using strong or adult shampoos, as they can irritate your baby's sensitive skin.

2. Massage the Scalp: Use your fingertips to gently massage the affected areas of your baby’s scalp to help loosen the scales. You can do this while washing the baby’s hair or using a soft brush.

3. Use Baby Oil or Mineral Oil: Before washing your baby’s hair, apply a small amount of baby oil, coconut oil, or mineral oil to the scalp. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, which will help soften the scales. Afterward, gently comb or brush the scales off and then wash the scalp with a mild shampoo.

4. Soft Brush or Comb: After applying oil, you can gently use a soft brush or comb to remove the loosened flakes. Be sure to be very gentle to avoid irritating your baby's sensitive scalp.

5. Avoid Scratching: Try not to let your baby scratch their scalp, as it can cause further irritation and potential infection. Keep your baby’s nails trimmed to avoid scratching.

6. Moisturize: If the scalp remains dry after washing, you can apply a small amount of gentle baby moisturizer to help keep the skin hydrated.

7. Consult the Pediatrician: If the condition doesn’t improve, becomes inflamed, or spreads, it’s best to consult your pediatrician. In some cases, a pediatrician may recommend a medicated shampoo or cream to help manage the condition.

Cradle cap usually resolves on its own over time, but the measures above can help alleviate discomfort and speed up healing.