These can all cause a flaky scalp in children. Here’s how to tell them apart and what to do.
Cradle Cap (Infant Seborrheic Dermatitis)
- Who: Mostly 0–12 months.
- Look: Greasy yellow scales stuck to scalp; mild redness; not very itchy.
- Care:
- Soften with a little baby oil/petroleum jelly 15–30 minutes before bath.
- Gentle baby shampoo; lift flakes with a soft brush—don’t scratch.
- If stubborn, ask your pediatrician about short-term anti-dandruff shampoo (ketoconazole/zinc/selenium) 2–3× weekly.
Dandruff in Older Kids (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
- Who: Toddlers to teens.
- Look: White/yellow flakes with mild redness/itch; often also around eyebrows, ear creases, sides of nose.
- Care:
- Use anti-dandruff shampoo 2–3× weekly (ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, salicylic acid). Leave on 3–5 minutes, then rinse.
- For stubborn itch/redness, clinician may add a short course of a prescription anti-inflammatory solution/foam.
Scalp Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis on Scalp)
- Who: Children with eczema elsewhere (cheeks in infants; elbow/knee folds in older kids).
- Look: Dry, itchy patches; may ooze/crack; often sensitive to fragrances/harsh shampoos.
- Care:
- Use gentle, fragrance-free shampoo; moisturize scalp/skin after bath (light oils/creams that won’t clog scalp).
- Short courses of prescribed steroid or non-steroid anti-inflammatory solutions for flares per clinician guidance.
When to see a clinician
- Hair loss, tender swollen lymph nodes, thick/boggy areas, or circular scaly patches (possible ringworm/tinea capitis needs oral antifungals).
- Bleeding, crusting, or possible infection.
- No improvement after 4–6 weeks of proper care.
Everyday tips
- Avoid harsh scrubbing and hot blow-drying.
- Fragrance-free products if sensitive.
- Don’t share combs/brushes; clean tools regularly.