After a baby is born, a layer of grayish-white vernix often covers their scalp, leaving moms perplexed about how to handle this seemingly dirty cradle cap. In fact, this is a normal occurrence. The sebaceous glands on a newborn baby's scalp secrete a large amount of oil, which, if not cleaned promptly, combines with dirt to form a thick layer of cradle cap. By mastering the correct cleaning methods, moms can easily resolve this issue at home.
Prepare Cleaning Tools:
Before cleaning the baby, moms should gather all necessary cleaning tools, including baby oil, baby shampoo, a soft towel, and a baby bathtub. Choose gentle and non-irritating bath products.
Cleaning Steps:
1. Lay the baby on their back in mom's arms. Use one hand to support the baby's head, resting their back on the forearm. Cover the baby's ears with the thumb and index or middle finger of that hand to prevent water from entering. Use the other hand to gently wash the baby's hair with a damp towel. Avoid using a showerhead to prevent water from getting into the baby's eyes.
2. Gently apply a layer of baby oil to the cradle cap. After letting it soften for a while, use a soft brush to loosen the buildup.
3. Wet the baby's scalp with warm water around 40°C, then apply baby shampoo to wash their hair. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
4. Finally, pick up the baby and gently dry their hair with a clean, soft towel.
Note: Use baby oil sparingly to avoid it getting into the baby's eyes. If the cradle cap isn't completely removed the first time, repeat the process the next day until it’s clean.
In addition to learning how to clean cradle cap, proper daily care can help prevent its occurrence.
1. Frequent Hair Washing:
Regularly washing the baby’s scalp not only keeps their hair clean but also reduces the formation of cradle cap, promotes hair growth, and prevents itching. When washing, control the water temperature properly, use baby-specific products, shampoo gently without scratching the scalp, and soothe the baby to reduce discomfort.
2. Proper Care:
In addition to frequent hair washing, proper care is also important for the baby’s scalp health. Ensure the baby gets adequate sunlight exposure—but avoid direct sun—and sufficient sleep. Avoid using hair dryers.
Cradle cap should be handled carefully and never picked off directly with fingers to prevent infection. With the right methods, cleaning cradle cap is not difficult at all.
