Approfondimenti scientifici
Neonatal scalp wellness
Cradle cap, the common name for infantile seborrheic dermatitis, is a benign dermatological condition frequently observed in the first months of life. It typically appears starting from the second week after birth and tends to resolve spontaneously by the sixth month.
The typical manifestation consists of whitish-yellow, greasy-looking scales and crusts, primarily located on the scalp. The most commonly affected areas include the hairline, eyebrows, nose, cheeks, and ears. The condition is generally asymptomatic and does not cause itching in most cases, with a limited impact mainly of aesthetic concern.
The exact causes of cradle cap are not yet fully understood. The most widely accepted pathogenic hypothesis attributes the onset of the condition to excessive activity of the sebaceous glands, stimulated by maternal-origin androgens still present in the neonatal circulation. The progressive elimination of these hormones, generally by the third month of life, is associated with the natural regression of seborrheic dermatitis.
Non-pharmacological treatment
Cradle cap management is based on simple, non-invasive hygiene practices aimed at softening and gradually removing the scales:
- Application of vegetable oil (e.g., sweet almond oil) to the affected area to soften the scales.
- Gentle removal with gauze, soft-bristle brushes, or combs with rounded tips, avoiding aggressive maneuvers that could cause micro-lesions on the skin.
- Avoid any mechanical scratching, whether with fingers or rigid tools.
- Scalp washing with specific oil-based, pH-neutral cleansers every 2–3 days.
General guidelines for neonatal head cleansing
- Use gentle cleansing products free of harsh surfactants, with physiological pH and natural composition.
- Limit the frequency of washes to prevent skin dryness and alteration of the dermobiota.
- Avoid contact of the product with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Use minimal amounts of water in the first weeks of life to support sensory adaptation.
The frequency of washing can vary based on individual conditions, ranging from daily to twice a week in the absence of specific clinical indications.
Drying and post-bath care
Head drying should be done carefully, using soft towels and patting motions, especially in the presence of open fontanelles. In infants with thicker hair, soft-bristle brushes or wide-toothed combs can be used. The use of a hair dryer is permitted with precautions: lukewarm temperature, low power, and no direct airflow to the face. Some newborns may respond positively to the white noise produced by the dryer, which recalls reassuring intrauterine stimuli.
Relational dimension of bath time
Bath time also holds a relational significance. It is considered a meaningful opportunity for strengthening the emotional bond between adult and baby. Through behavioral signals such as crying and smiling, the newborn elicits caregiving responses that contribute to the development of bonding and early communication.
Although not directly related to dermatological care, these interactions play an important role in the overall context of neonatal health, influencing emotional and relational well-being from the very first weeks of life.
