Soon after the baby is born, a layer of mud-like substance appears on the head, which is called "cradle cap". Some new moms may find it dirty and try to wash it off. Is this practice right or wrong? Let me answer that for you!
Why do babies have cradle cap?
Cradle cap, also known as "seborrheic dermatitis", refers to the white, greasy substance that attaches to the baby's skin shortly after birth.
It is formed during the 17-20th week of fetal development and initially serves to protect the baby's skin from contamination in the amniotic fluid.
This greasy substance acts as a barrier, isolating the amniotic fluid and preventing the baby's skin from wrinkling like after being soaked in water for too long.
During the process of giving birth, these white secretions can lubricate the birth canal and help the baby be delivered smoothly.
Every baby is born with some amount of cradle cap, which is normal. Moms don't need to be nervous or treat it as dirt.
Can cradle cap be washed off?
Cradle cap itself is beneficial for the baby. After the baby is born, it becomes a "blanket" to keep the baby warm and maintain normal body temperature.
Cradle cap also prevents pathogenic microorganisms from growing on the skin, acting as a "protective clothing" for babies.
However, there are some cases that need attention. Generally, cradle cap starts to be absorbed or shed a few hours after birth.
But in some babies, cradle cap may accumulate slowly and mix with the shed scalp, sebum secreted by epithelial cells, and dust in the air, forming crusts that are black, grayish, or brownish and hard and scaly in appearance.
Although cradle cap does not affect the baby's health, it may cover the fontanelle and limit its buffering function, affecting the doctor's assessment of certain diseases. Therefore, cradle cap needs to be cleaned.
Reminder: Not all "cradle cap" is cradle cap. It may also be eczema or scalp ringworm, which should be treated promptly.
So, when cradle cap first appears, take the baby to see a doctor to check for any abnormalities.
