Cradle Cap
Definition
Cradle cap is a form of seborrheic dermatitis, a minor inflammatory disease of the scalp, face, and occasionally other areas of the body. It is a common scalp problem in infants and younger children.
Description
Cradle cap appears as thick, oily yellowish or brownish patches on the skin, particularly the scalp. It is also often found around the eyebrows, around the nose, behind the ears, and in the genital area. The skin itself often appears to be red, flaky, and irritated underneath the oily patches. It most often effects children who are between two weeks and two years old. Although cradle cap may be unsightly, it is usually not harmful to the child.
Causes & symptoms
During infancy and early childhood, the glands that produce sweat and oil are in a highly reactive state. Cradle cap is most likely due to a buildup of sweat and oil produced by these overactive glands. This buildup may also cause an irritation of the skin. Sometimes an over-growth of the yeast called Pityrosporum ovale may also contribute to the condition. Occasionally, cradle cap is a symptom of more serious problems.
Diagnosis
Cradle cap is easily recognizable, and usually it requires no further diagnosis. However, if the rash seems to be very itchy or irritating, it may be necessary to rule out eczema. If there are additional symptoms, a health-care provider should be consulted for a physical exam and possible testing.
Treatment
Most remedies for cradle cap can be applied directly to the oily patches on the skin. Tannins, for example, can help to slow down oil production, as well as clear away the cradle cap. Warm caffeinated tea, German chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita), burdock tea (Arctium lappa), or diluted witch hazel extract (Hamamelis virginiana,) can be rubbed into the skin with a cloth several times per day.
A comfrey rinse can also be used. It should be rubbed onto the affected area with a washcloth. The rinse can be used after shampooing or bathing, or it can be applied to dry skin. This treatment can be given nightly for up to ten days until the symptoms are gone. The comfrey rinse can be made by boiling two ounces (about 57 grams) of comfrey root, Symphytum officinale, in one quart (or one liter) of water. The tea should be simmered for 20 minutes and then allowed to cool. A batch of the comfrey rinse can be used and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.
A rule of thumb in science is that like dissolves like; therefore, any type of food grade oil can be used to dis-solve
Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) is useful in soothing a variety of skin problems, and can be applied to affected areas several times per day. The herb can also be misted liberally with water or used as a tea. Ointments containing Calendula offinalis or plantain (Plantago major) are also appropriate to use on areas of cradle cap. These herbs can often clear up an outbreak in as little as four days.
Internal remedies for cradle cap can be quite effective. These include tincture of burdock root, which can help to balance oil and sweat production. Burdock is also a good general tonic to take to keep the skin healthy. Burdock should be given for at least three weeks for full effect. A tincture of the wild pansy flower, Viola tricolor, can also be given. Biotin, a B vitamin, works well for cradle cap and can be given at dosages of 10 micrograms (mcg) for age 0-6 months; 15 mcg for age 6-12 months, and 20 mcg for age one to three years.
