Ask the Expert

Q: What's the best way to prevent and treat cradle cap?

A: Cradle cap is another name for seborrheic dermatitis, which occurs during infancy. While the condition is usually easy to treat, there's no real way to prevent it. For most babies, it is helpful to apply some mineral oil to their wet scalp at the site of irritation about an hour before shampooing and then to massage the affected area when shampooing with baby shampoo. Anti-seborrheic (anti-dandruff) shampoo can help. In more severe cases, a topical medication may be necessary, like hydrocortisone, but you should consult with your pediatrician or pediatric dermatologist.

Dr. Amy Paller is the Chair of Dermatology and Professor of Pediatrics at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois.