The arrival of a newborn is like welcoming a precious gift to every family. They are witnesses to love, carrying the hopes and dreams of the family. In the journey of a child’s growth, careful nurturing by parents is crucial, especially in terms of diet and hygiene, which require special attention, particularly in caring for newborns.
Usually, a layer of natural sebum covers the baby’s scalp, which is a normal sign of active sebaceous glands. If not cleaned promptly, the sebum may mix with dust and over time form a hard, unhygienic crust known as cradle cap, which could hinder the healthy functioning of the scalp. Therefore, timely cleaning is essential.
At times, even with frequent washing, cradle cap may reoccur because it is primarily formed by the accumulation of sebum secretions and external dust. The less frequent the washing, the thicker the accumulated crust. Hence, consistent and gentle cleaning is crucial for the baby’s comfort.
Facing the baby’s cradle cap, mothers can employ gentle methods: using soft, moist gauze or a small towel for gentle wiping, or first applying a gentle baby-designed cradle cap oil, followed by a gentle combing with a fine-toothed comb. If not completely removed at once, trying again the next day is advisable, but it is important to avoid direct scratching with nails to prevent harming the baby’s delicate scalp.
Having learned the methods of dealing with the baby’s cradle cap, mothers no longer need to worry about the white vernix that adheres to the baby’s scalp at birth. By following the correct cleaning steps, they can effectively remove cradle cap while ensuring the baby’s safety and comfort.
