2. Hydrate the scalp: Hydrating the scalp is good for loosening flakes, and some people feel it nourishes the scalp underneath. You’ll need a pure plant oil, such as olive, coconut, jojoba, or almond oil. Baby oil also works. Whichever you choose, try a small amount on your baby’s scalp first to see if it causes any irritation. You can use this method once a day. Anecdotally, people find this method to be effective, but there’s no research to support it. As long as your child isn’t allergic to the oil, this is a safe method.
3. Wash baby’s hair: Proper hair hygiene can go a long way toward diminishing the appearance of cradle cap. A baby shampoo may be enough to help treat the cradle cap. Only use dandruff shampoo with your doctor’s permission because it might not be safe for your baby.
Ask your pediatrician how often they recommend you wash your baby’s hair. Too much shampooing might dry out the scalp and make cradle cap worse.
Shampooing is very effective for temporarily removing cradle cap flakes, and it’s very safe when using baby shampoo. Just be careful not to get soap in your baby’s eyes.\
4. Try essential oils: These highly concentrated oils are herbal remedies that contain the essence (active ingredient) of various plants. Using antimicrobial essential oils may help fight cradle cap caused by yeast (though this is an uncommon cause of cradle cap in babies). Anti-inflammatory essential oils may soothe the scalp.
When choosing an oil, consider lemon or geranium essential oil and a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil. Some people also recommend tea tree oil, but this oil may not be safe for young babies and should be avoided on babies younger than 6 months.
