Hi, my baby is 6 months old and she continuously scratches her head at the back .. on the bottom near the hairlines .. I see there is some red patch . small in size ... what could be that?

Question

Accepted Answer

It sounds like your 6-month-old baby might have a condition called eczema or cradle cap, which are common skin conditions in babies. Let’s look at both possibilities:

1. Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis):

Symptoms: Cradle cap often appears as yellow or greasy scales or a red patch on the scalp. It's common around the hairline, especially at the back of the head. Babies tend to scratch the area, and the skin may become dry or flaky.

Treatment:

Gently wash the scalp with baby shampoo and use a soft brush to remove flakes.

You can also use baby oil or coconut oil to soften the scales before gently brushing them out.

If the condition persists, consult your pediatrician for other treatments like medicated shampoos or creams.

2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis):

Symptoms: Eczema often appears as red, dry, itchy patches of skin. It could be on the scalp, face, or body. If your baby is scratching, it might be a sign of eczema.

Treatment:

Keep the skin moisturized with a hypoallergenic baby lotion or ointment.

Avoid irritants like scented products or harsh soaps.

Your pediatrician may suggest a mild steroid cream if eczema is diagnosed.

What You Can Do:

Moisturize: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to the affected area to help soothe and protect the skin.

Avoid Scratching: Keep your baby’s nails trimmed to reduce the chance of skin damage from scratching.

Monitor the Red Patch: If it’s persistent, worsens, or shows signs of infection (like pus or oozing), consult your pediatrician.

When to See a Doctor:

If the patch doesn’t improve after regular care or becomes more inflamed.

If you’re concerned that it might be something more serious or need advice on treatments.

It’s always good to check with your pediatrician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your baby’s skin needs.