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Symptom Checker

Cradle Cap

Cradle cap is a common condition that causes greasy, flaky or crusty scales on a baby’s scalp. It can also appear around the eyebrows, ears or other oily areas of the skin.

The exact cause is not fully understood. Oil produced by the skin and a type of yeast that normally lives on the skin may contribute.

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AAP Guide to Cradle Cap

The AAP guide below explains what cradle cap looks like, gentle care at home, and when the scalp changes should be checked.

AAP Symptom CheckerCradle cap

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Symptom CheckerCradle cap New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The scalp becomes very red, swollen, painful or weepy.
  • The rash spreads widely beyond the scalp.
  • Your baby seems very itchy or uncomfortable.
  • The rash is not improving and you are unsure whether it is cradle cap.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has any life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms