Cradle cap: advice from your osteopath

Cradle cap, or seborrheic dermatitis, is a benign skin condition that affects many babies in the first few months of life. They manifest themselves as whitish or yellowish patches, often localized on the scalp, and are due to an overproduction of sebum associated with the presence of natural yeasts on the infant's skin. Although benign, they can be unsightly and sometimes slightly irritating. Here are some osteopathic tips to help your baby get rid of it gently.

Cradle cap is generally due to excessive sebum production, under the influence of maternal hormones still present in the baby's body after birth. This accumulation of sebum encourages the proliferation of yeasts (of the Malassezia genus), leading to the appearance of the patches.

• Gentle, regular washing

  Use a gentle, sulfate-free, fragrance-free shampoo specially designed for infants. Body wash shower oil can also be used on the scalp.
  Gently massage your baby's scalp with your fingertips to avoid irritation. Do not scratch the scabs.

• Moisturizing and natural care

  Apply vegetable oil (sweet almond, olive or coconut oil) to the scabs an hour before bathing and leave on. This will help soften the scabs and facilitate their natural removal during washing.
  Breast milk can also be used and applied directly to the scalp.

• Gentle brushing

  After bathing, use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove softened crusts. Avoid scratching or rubbing vigorously, as this can irritate your baby's skin. You can use a baby comb, but without scratching.

• Check diet and digestion

  Difficult digestion or abdominal tension can sometimes lead to cradle cap. An osteopathic session can help rebalance your baby's digestive system and promote general well-being.

• Monitoring progress

  If cradle cap spreads to other areas of the body (face, skin folds) or is accompanied by redness and inflammation, consult a healthcare professional to rule out atopic dermatitis or infection.

Cradle cap is a frequent and harmless phenomenon in infants. By adopting simple, natural gestures, they generally disappear within a few weeks. However, if they persist or are accompanied by other disorders, it may be worth exploring a more global approach. Osteopathy, with its action on the general balance of the body and the baby's well-being, can be a valuable complementary solution. Don't hesitate to consult an osteopath to help your baby develop harmoniously!