Q5. What causes cradle cap?

A5. There is not a precise cause of cradle cap: there are, in fact, several causes of cradle cap which include an over-production of oil in the baby’s skin. This is due to the presence of the mother’s hormones which can cause this excess production.

An over-production of oil or sebum causes the skin to become sticky which enables dead skin cells to adhere to it. This results in a build up of cells and oil which cause cradle cap. Find out more in our cradle cap causes section.

FAQS Index : A guide to Cradle Cap

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Cradle Cap FAQs

1. What is cradle cap?
2. Does it only affect babies?
3. What are the signs of cradle cap?
4. Is cradle cap contagious?
5. What causes cradle cap?

6. What is the difference between cradle cap and seborrhoeic dermatitis?
7. How do I treat cradle cap?
8. Can I use tea tree oil to treat my baby’s cradle cap?
9. Does what I eat whilst breastfeeding increase the risk of cradle cap?
10. Are there any complications with cradle cap?

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