Why is My Baby's Head Dry?
Your baby's dry head is often due to cradle cap, also known as seborrheic dermatitis. This common condition affects infants in their first year and presents as crusty or oily, scaly patches on the scalp. It's typically not painful or itchy, but it can appear as thick, white, or yellow scales. While it usually resolves on its own within 6-12 months, there are ways to manage it.
- Cradle Cap (Seborrheic Dermatitis): This is the most frequent cause of a dry, scaly scalp in babies. It's a harmless condition thought to be related to overproduction of oil by the sebaceous glands and possibly a fungus ( Malassezia globosa). [Source: Mayo Clinic, KidsHealth]
- Over-washing: Washing your baby's hair too frequently can strip away essential oils, leading to dryness. [Source: Provided text]
- Underlying Skin Conditions: In some cases, dry scalp might indicate eczema or other underlying skin conditions. [Source: Healthline]
Treatment and Management:
- Gentle Washing: Wash your baby's hair 2-3 times a week with a mild, baby-specific shampoo. Rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo residue, as this can worsen the dryness. [Source: Provided text]
- Soft Brushing: Gently brush your baby's hair with a soft baby brush to remove scales. [Source: Provided text, Reddit]
- Olive Oil (Home Remedy): Applying a small amount of olive oil, leaving it on for 10-15 minutes, and then gently brushing can help loosen scales. [Source: Reddit]
- Micellar Water (Between Baths): Using micellar water between baths can help maintain scalp moisture. [Source: Mustela]
- Short Baths: Keeping bath times short helps to prevent excessive dryness. [Source: Mustela]
Important Note: While cradle cap typically resolves without treatment, consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about the severity, persistence, or spread of the dryness. They can rule out other potential skin conditions.
