# What are dandruff and cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis)? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hi-qashrat-al-ras-wa-qabaat-al-mahd-iltihab-al-jild-al-dahni Language: en Category: dermatology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.367Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.367Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-hi-qashrat-al-ras-wa-qabaat-al-mahd-iltihab-al-jild-al-dahni Dandruff and cradle cap are two names for a common skin condition known as seborrheic dermatitis, which is an inflammatory condition that primarily affects the scalp but may appear in other areas rich in sebaceous glands. This condition is characterized by the appearance of white or yellow scales and may be accompanied by itching and redness. The name of the condition differs depending on the age group affected. Dandruff is seborrheic dermatitis that affects adults and adolescents after puberty, while the condition is known as cradle cap in infants [\[2\]](). ## What is dandruff? Dandruff is a flaking of the skin on the scalp, appearing as white or yellow scales. It is often accompanied by scalp itching. It usually begins after puberty and is more common in men. Dandruff is a symptom of seborrheic dermatitis, a skin condition that can also cause redness and skin irritation [\[2\]](). ## What is cradle cap? Cradle cap is a type of seborrheic dermatitis that affects infants. It is characterized by the appearance of thick, scaly, yellow, or brown crusts on the baby's scalp. Scales may also appear on the eyelids, ears, and around the nose [\[3\]](). This condition often lasts for a few months and then disappears on its own, but in some children, it may last until the age of two or three years [\[3\]](). Contrary to common beliefs, cradle cap is not contagious, is not caused by poor hygiene, is not an allergy, and is not dangerous [\[3\]](). ## Causes of seborrheic dermatitis The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is unknown, but it is believed to be related to increased secretion from the sebaceous glands in the scalp [\[3\]](). Some types of fungi that naturally live on the skin may also play a role in worsening the condition [\[2\]](). ## Treatment and prevention ### Treatment of dandruff in adults: - **Anti-dandruff shampoos:** In most cases, dandruff can be controlled using a special anti-dandruff shampoo [\[2\]](). - **Visiting a doctor:** If regular anti-dandruff shampoo does not succeed in controlling the condition, it is recommended to see a healthcare provider [\[2\]](). ### Treatment of cradle cap in infants: Most cases of cradle cap can be managed at home [\[3\]](). Tips include: - **Gentle massage and shampoo:** Gently massage the baby's scalp with your fingers or a soft brush to loosen the scales and improve blood circulation. Wash the baby's hair daily with a gentle shampoo as long as scales are present. Once the scales disappear, the frequency of washing can be reduced to twice a week [\[3\]](). - **Baby oil or mineral oil:** If the scales do not loosen easily, baby oil or mineral oil can be applied to the baby's scalp, and the head can be wrapped with a warm, damp cloth for up to an hour before washing with shampoo [\[3\]](). Ensure the cloth does not cool down to avoid lowering the baby's temperature [\[3\]](). - **Prescription medications:** In severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe a medicated shampoo or cream [\[2\]](). For more information about causes, treatment, and prevention, you can visit [Dandruff and Cradle Cap: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention of Seborrheic Dermatitis (Arabic)](). ## When to see a doctor? For dandruff, you should see a doctor if the condition does not improve using regular anti-dandruff shampoos [\[2\]](). For cradle cap, you should contact your child's healthcare provider if [\[3\]](): - The scales or other skin symptoms do not disappear or worsen after home care. - The patches begin to secrete fluids or pus, form crusts, or become very red or painful. - Your child develops a fever (this could be due to a worsening infection). ## Medical references - [Dandruff, Cradle Cap, and Other Scalp Conditions]() - [Cradle cap]() - [Tea Tree Oil]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hi-qashrat-al-ras-wa-qabaat-al-mahd-iltihab-al-jild-al-dahni#answer