The Best Cradle Cap Treatments

FridaBaby Three-Step Cradle Cap System

Complete cradle cap system

Including everything but the shampoo, this complete system features a sponge, brush, comb, and storage stand for optimal cradle cap treatment.

Best Overall

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Getting rid of cradle cap can be tricky, which is why this three-part system is such a convenient option. Gentle enough for your baby’s sensitive scalp but tough enough to get rid of the issue at hand, this set includes a soft foam sponge for lathering, a massaging bristle brush, and a fine-tooth comb to lift away any stray flakes. And although you’ll need to bring your own shampoo to the game here, this handy all-in-one tool really makes a difference in combatting a stubborn case of cradle cap.

Pros:

• Includes a storage stand
• Super gentle sponge system
• The fine-tooth comb is curved for better contact points

Cons:

• Can be challenging to clean the comb and pad thoroughly after each use
• Does not include treatment shampoo, just a combing system

Mustela Cradle Cap Foam Shampoo for Newborns

Safely soothing shampoo

This gentle shampoo is effective and safe enough to use on newborns.

Best Shampoo

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Despite this shampoo’s name, it’s not just for newborns. While this formula is certainly gentle enough for a newborn, it’s still super effective at treating cradle cap on older babies, too. Made without soap and designed specifically to not only wash away flakes but also to prevent future cradle cap breakouts, this ultra-gentle formula is a winner for anyone struggling with those pesky flakes and unsightly build-up.

Pros:

• Foam texture stays in place, making it safe to use on forehead and eyebrows as well
• Free of harmful ingredients such as parabens and fragrances
• Tear-free formula won’t irritate sensitive eyes or skin

Cons:

• For best results, leave on for two minutes — which can be tricky with a squirmy baby
• May take multiple washes to fully clear cradle cap

FridaBaby DermaFrida Flakefixer Sponges

Soft and sweet

This sponge may be pillowy soft, but it effortlessly lifts away those telltale flakes.

Softest Sponges

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To loosen up stubborn patches of cradle cap, it’s beneficial to use an agitator to lift away the flakes. The Flakefixer system works to do just that. In combination with a shampoo or oil specifically designed for cradle cap, this soft foam sponge works to loosen and lift the flakes from the scalp and free from the hair. When combined with a shampoo and the entire Flakefixer system, even the most stubborn case of cradle cap won’t withstand a chance.

Pros:

• Soft sponge is still tough on stubborn spots
• Gentle for use on face and skin
• Small size for easy scrubbing

Cons:

• Sponges will need to be replaced every month with routine use
• Entire system is sold separately

Elizabeth Parker Naturals Organic Cradle Cap Baby Balm

The all-around balm

This healing balm works for everything from dry skin to baby acne — and of course, cradle cap, too.

Most Versatile

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Thoughtfully crafted with organic ingredients, this ultra-gentle formula uses the power of nature to soothe and comfort an irritated scalp. Ideal for removing cradle cap once and for all, this nourishing balm contains essential oils, rich vitamins, honey, and calendula to provide an instantly calming balm on not just a flakey scalp but also psoriasis, eczema, and a variety of other ailments. Its versatility is one of the main reasons we keep this on hand — it’s wonderful for adult skin, too.

Pros:

• Can remove cradle cap within days
• Deeply nourishing formula for versatile use, even for diaper rashes
• Works for the entire family

Cons:

• For cradle cap, this formula is best for babies with little to no hair
• This product does contain honey, so make sure babies under one are not able to ingest it

Era Organics Superbalm

Pure and simple

This gentle, pure formula uses organic ingredients to stop cradle cap in its tracks.

Best Balm

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Ideal for sensitive skin, this product lives up to its name. Skipping all of the harsh ingredients, Era Organics’ Superbalm uses a natural approach to deliver a rich, calming balm for cradle cap, baby acne and eczema, diaper rashes, and more. Created using calendula, avocado oil, and cocoa butter, among other ingredients, this formula goes on silky smooth and even works with thicker hair. Gentle enough to use on cracked, open skin, this is wonderful as a year-round moisturizer for all ages, too.

Pros:

• USDA Organic formula
• Free of fragrances, mineral oil, and other harsh chemicals and additives
• Non-oily formula absorbs into skin

Cons:

• Not the best container for the diaper bag
• Best for milder skin irritations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to prevent cradle cap?
Although cradle cap may be unsightly, it’s not a serious condition. It’s typically fairly easy to treat and doesn’t require much more than gentle exfoliating, oils, and sometimes a specialized shampoo. With special care and upkeep, it’s possible to keep cradle cap completely at bay. Even if your baby is bald, use a soft bristled brush to gently loosen any dead skin or build-up from your baby’s scalp and hair. Shampoo regularly, and always massage oil into the scalp after washing.

What is the cause of cradle cap?
Although there are some theories, there is actually no definitive cause of cradle cap. Common up until about three months of age, it can last as long as a year or more.