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Cradle cap is something I’ve dealt with a few times, and here’s how I learned to care for it using coconut oil.

7 month old baby wearing a white onesie sitting on rug.
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So far, both of my kids have experienced cradle cap at one time or another. Cradle cap can be very annoying and essentially looks like dandruff in their hair. Though it isn’t usually harmful in any way, I definitely wanted to get rid of it.

What I most love about this DIY is you only need one ingredient; coconut oil! It’s so easy!

What is Cradle Cap?

Cradle cap is white or yellow crusty skin that babies get on their heads. Toddlers, children, and even adults can have cradle cap, but it isn’t as noticeable because it is covered by their hair.

Most of the time cradle cap is harmless and will resolve by itself in less than a year. In severe cases, you may need to see a doctor for cradle cap.

What Causes Cradle Cap?

The exact cause for cradle cap is unknown, but studies suggest that it has to do with excessive oil production in the skin glands. The overproduction of oils can be caused by the mother’s hormones that are passed on to the baby during birth.

How to use Coconut Oil for Cradle Cap

Top of baby's head after getting cradle cap brushed out.
  1. About 20 minutes before bath time, scoop about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil into the palm of your hand and massage it into your baby’s head.
  2. Allow the coconut oil to sit and soak into the scalp.
  3. Put your baby in the tub and, using a soft, fine-tooth comb, gently comb your baby’s hair. The cradle cap will come right off.
  4. Rinse your baby’s hair with warm water and wash with a homemade baby wash.

Note: If cradle cap comes back, repeat the process. Be very careful when combing the cradle cap. The top of a baby’s head is very delicate; if your child shows any signs of discomfort or pain, stop immediately.

Does it Hurt to Pick Cradle Cap?

Picking your baby’s cradle cap will be so tempting, but it is something you should not do. Picking at it can irritate your baby’s skin and cause it to itch. Picking at it can pull hair out, and cause pain.

It is best to leave it be until you plan to use coconut oil to loosen the scales first and then brush it out.

Best Shampoo for Cradle Cap

I love making my kids homemade shampoos, homemade body wash, and DIY baby lotions. It ensures me that I know exactly what is in the products I am putting on my kid’s skin. Using a gentle and natural shampoo is the best shampoo to use for your baby’s cradle cap.

If your baby has a mild cradle cap, washing the hair with natural shampoo may take care of it.

If you made this DIY and loved it, I suggest reading this one next: homemade skin salve!

4.63 from 8 votes

How to Care for Cradle Cap with Coconut Oil

Prep: 1 minute
Active: 2 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total: 13 minutes
Learn how to care for cradle cap using coconut oil.
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Ingredients 

Instructions 

  • About 20 minutes before bath time, scoop about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil into the palm of your hand and massage it into your baby’s head.
  • Allow the coconut oil to sit and soak into the scalp.
  • Put your baby in the tub and, using a soft, fine-tooth comb, gently comb your baby's hair. The cradle cap will come right off.
  • Rinse your baby’s hair with warm water and wash with a natural shampoo.

Video

Notes

Do not pick at the cradle cap.
If cradle cap comes back, repeat the process. Be very careful when combing the cradle cap. The top of a baby’s head is very delicate; if your child shows any signs of discomfort or pain, stop immediately.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before using this on your baby. 
Tried this recipe?Mention @our_oily_house or tag #ouroilyhouse!
This recipe is for your own viewing pleasure and is not meant for healing purposes. Readers must perform their own research and tests before making any recipe.

About Laura

Welcome to Our Oily House, I’m so glad you’re here! Explore DIY cleaners, homemade soaps, skincare and hair care recipes, fragrance-free solutions, and sustainable laundry tips for a naturally inspired home.

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4.63 from 8 votes (8 ratings without comment)

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6 Comments

  1. Amy says:

    Do you melt the coconut oil or put it on as-is from the jar? I got mine from Aldi too! Thank you!!

  2. Kimberly Rosario says:

    Thank you for the info. How often should you do this process? My Childs cradle cap leaks is that common?

  3. Vanessa says:

    Thanks for this video. Super helpful! Also do you mind me asking what brand of Coconut oil you utilize?

    1. Laura says:

      I get it from aldi!

  4. Amanda Aspy says:

    Ben is so adorable. Adding this to my next grocery order to try. Happy Holidays.

    1. Laura says:

      Thank you so much!