Cradle cap

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Cradle cap on baby's scalp, with close-up of oily, crusty buildup of skin

Cradle cap is an oily, yellow scaling or crusting on a baby's scalp. It is caused by a buildup of sticky skin oils, scales, and sloughed skin cells. Cradle cap is common in babies and is easily treated.

Current as of: March 1, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Susan C. Kim MD - Pediatrics
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
John Pope MD - Pediatrics

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