Cradle cap

Skip Navigation
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: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.