Discovering cradle cap on your child's delicate scalp can be worrying, but don't worry. In this blog, we delve into the world of cradle cap and provide insight into its nature, causes and, most importantly, how to effectively treat it with our natural skincare solutions.

What is cradle cap?

Cradle cap is a common skin condition that commonly affects infants in the first three months of life. It appears as thick, waxy, yellow crusts on the baby's scalp and eyebrows and is easily recognizable visually. Although it may seem alarming, cradle cap is generally harmless and does not cause pain or itching.

Symptoms of cradle cap

• Yellow, greasy, waxy scales or flakes on the scalp, sometimes extending to the eyebrows.
• Redness of the skin, occasionally due to eczema developing under the cradle cap.
• It is not contagious and usually goes away on its own after a few months.

Discovering the causes of cradle cap

What causes cradle cap?

The exact cause of cradle cap is still unknown, but several factors can contribute to it:

• Inflammation or abnormalities of the oil glands and hair follicles.
• Presence of a yeast fungus with bacteria in the sebum.
• Hormonal changes, stress, fatigue and seasonal fluctuations.
• Relationship to skin fungi

Infection and cradle cap

In some cases, the skin beneath the crusts of cradle cap can become infected, causing redness and small blisters. If your baby shows signs of infection, such as spreading redness or discomfort, you should seek medical attention immediately. Unlike cradle cap, infection is contagious and may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Natural solutions for the scalp

Our natural skincare products are all enriched with Manuka oil and are designed to relieve the symptoms of cradle cap and gently care for your baby's sensitive scalp.

1. Waikura Manuka Shampoo for sensitive scalp: Our antibacterial shampoo effectively washes the scalp, fights inflammation and gently removes crusts and excess oil.
2. Waikura Manuka Conditioner for sensitive scalp: A creamy, soothing conditioner that softens and nourishes crusty areas and is easy to rinse out.
3. Waikura Manuka Body Lotion: This body lotion with Manuka oil is ideal for massaging into the scalp to reduce inflammation and applying to the scalp to soften crusts. Research* has shown that Manuka oil is a powerful ingredient with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral and antioxidant properties that significantly improve the treatment of cradle cap and itchy skin conditions.

Soothing nightly ritual against cradle cap

Create a soothing nighttime routine by massaging the scalp with our Body Lotion and washing the hair the next morning with our Shampoo and Conditioner. Gently remove the crusts with a soft brush to moisturize the scalp and reduce irritation.

Care at home

Although cradle cap often resolves on its own, you can speed up the process with a few simple measures:

• Loosen the crusts by applying a light moisturizing eczema-body lotion to the scalp.
• Wash your baby's hair with our Manuka Oil Shampoo for sensitive scalps and gently remove the crusts with a soft brush or comb.
• If necessary, use a mild shampoo that does not irritate the baby's skin or eyes for one to two weeks.

Cradle cap can recur, but with consistent care the symptoms can be treated effectively.

With our natural skin care solutions, treating cradle cap becomes a smooth journey. Enjoy the nourishing effects of Manuka Oil products to ensure your child's scalp gets the care it deserves. Experience the beauty of a soothed and happy baby, free from the worries of cradle cap. 

Sources 

1. Maddocks-Jennings, W. et al. (2005) A fresh look at manuka and Kanuka Essential Oils from New Zealand, International Journal of Aromatherapy. No longer published by Elsevier. Available here.
2. Douglas, Malcolm & Klink, John & Smallfield, Bruce & Perry, Nigel & Anderson, Rosemary & Johnstone, Peter & Weavers, Rex. (2004). Essential oils from New Zealand manuka: Triketone and other chemotypes of Leptospermum scoparium. Phytochemistry. 65. 1255-64. 10.1016/j.phytochem.2004.03.019.
3. Vanessa Ngan, Staff Writer, 2002. Updated by Dr Thomas Stewart, General Practitioner, Sydney, Australia, November 2017 Available here