Knowing how to treat baby dry scalp is important because it can make your little one uncomfortable if it’s left neglected. Plus, you can see it in pictures and it makes quite a mess. So, learn these easy at-home remedies to prevent a trip to the pediatrician. Then, make your baby book more beautiful.
How to treat baby dry scalp at home
Believe it or not, those flakes on your baby’s head are pretty normal. In fact, a majority of newborns will experience dandruff within the first few months of their life. To treat it at home without calling the doctor, do these 3 simple things:
#1. Know the causes
Baby dry scalp, or “cradle cap” as it’s sometimes called, can be caused by many different things. Some causes can be harmful while others are just a part of nature. In most cases, it’s due to the fact that your baby was in your water for 9 months and their skin is finally drying out.
However, your baby could also have a case of eczema or allergies to the products you use at bathtime. So, monitor your little one for a while to find any potentially dangerous correlations. If you suspect the problem is something more serious, call a doctor.
#2. Examine the problem
Next, you want to look closely at your baby’s scalp. Try to find any evidence of bleeding because that’s a telltale sign of a more pressing issue. If you don’t find anything alarming, then chances are your baby is just shedding her outer layer of skin. It’s a healthy part of the birthing process and it usually takes a few months to complete.
#3. Begin treatment right away
The sooner you start addressing cradle cap the sooner it will go away. That means you have to begin treatment as soon as you notice flakes. To stay safe, consult with your pediatrician if you’re worried about ingredients or frequency. However, most home remedies are gentle and effective on sensitive baby skin.
4 ways to treat baby dry scalp with natural products
There are several different treatment options for dry scalped babies. Plus, many of them are all-natural so the side effects are minimal. Here are your top 4 choices:
- Medicated Shampoo
- Mineral Oil
- Olive Oil
- Hydrocortisone Cream
You might also consider changing your baby’s everyday shampoo and body wash. Or, think about skipping a day in between baths to give your baby’s skin a chance to secrete precious oils.
When to see a doctor for baby dandruff
Did you know that cradle cap can show up on different parts of the body besides your baby’s head? It usually starts on the scalp but can sometimes move to the face, groin, and armpits too. It’s also itchy and uncomfortable for newborns.
Itchy skin can cause incessant scratching. That, in turn, can cause an infection. As a responsible parent, you should check your baby’s scalp often to make sure there’s no oozing or discoloration present. If you see anything that looks abnormal or unhealthy, call your doctor to set up an appointment immediately.
