What is the best way to remove cradle cap?
The crusts of the milk crust must not simply be scraped off or peeled off. The scalp is already irritated by inflammation and would be further irritated. There is also the danger of injuring the scalp, which causes small wounds in which infections can spread.
Therefore, there are gentle procedures for the removal of milk crust, which do not unnecessarily damage the scalp. Besides special milk crust gels, which are available in pharmacies, home remedies or homeopathic remedies can also be used. In addition, a milk crust comb can be used to brush the hair, which should have soft bristles or rounded teeth.
The itching caused by cradle cap is very annoying for the baby. This can often be alleviated by removing the crusts. However, the crusts must not be simply scraped off, as otherwise small wounds will develop which are entry points for bacteria.
The scalp should be soaked sufficiently beforehand to gently brush out the loosened scales with a comb. The milk scab comb should not have any sharp points, which can damage the already irritated scalp, but rather rounded ends. There are numerous manufacturers of milk scab gel.
However, all of them contain gentle and caring oils. After massaging or lightly spreading it over the fontanel and allowing it to soak in for at least 30 minutes or overnight, the crusts and scales of the milk scab can best be gently removed with a soft baby brush. Many of the milk scab gels are slightly acidic with regard to the pH-value in order to achieve a dissolving (keratolytic) effect. No fragrances, preservatives, alcohol or colorants should be used in these gels.
How can you prevent milk crust?
Milk crust usually occurs very quickly without any precursors. Risk factors are dust, high humidity or excessively warm caps under which the hot air accumulates. In addition, common infections such as a cold or already existing skin irritations can be a trigger.
As a preventive measure, an attempt can be made to avoid the risk factors. However, the occurrence of milk crust cannot always be prevented. An important positive influencing factor is breastfeeding within the first half year of life.
Breastfeeding thus has a protective effect against milk crust. Equally protective is the mother’s renunciation of nicotine during pregnancy.If an allergic predisposition is to be assumed in the baby, for example, if neurodermatitis, bronchial asthma or allergies are known in a family, a so-called hypoallergenic food can be tried. Since a genetic component usually plays a role, the occurrence of milk crust cannot be prevented in all cases.
