Mountain in baby: what you can do about it (7 tips)

Those greasy, yellowish flakes on your baby's head? There's a good chance that your baby has cradle cap. This common skin condition in babies is harmless and will go away on its own after a while. Still, some parents want to treat cradle cap. Especially if your baby's cradle cap smells, appears on the forehead or face, or just doesn't seem to go away. Fortunately, there are a few gentle, natural tips you can do a lot to treat cradle cap and prevent it.

What is cradle cap in babies?

Cradle cap is a mild form of seborrheic eczema in babies, which usually develops in the first weeks or months after birth. You can recognize this form of 'baby dandruff' by the greasy flakes or crusts on the scalp, but sometimes also on the forehead, face, or even the eyebrows. These flakes or crusts are usually yellow and brown in color. The skin underneath may be slightly red, but cradle cap is painless and usually does not itch.

Please note: cradle cap is different from dry skin, as it can actually itch. Here you will find our best grandma tips for an itchy scalp.

Why does a baby get cradle cap?

Baby cradle cap is likely caused by a combination of factors, such as temporary overproduction of sebum, influences from the mother's hormones and an immature skin microbiome.

How long does cradle cap last in babies?

In most cases, it disappears on its own within a few weeks to months. Sometimes, however, it can take a few years for all the flakes to disappear. Baby cradle cap is very common and is a completely harmless skin condition , but it is understandable that you would prefer to remove it. Especially if the cradle cap on your baby smells or keeps stubbornly coming back.

Can you leave a baby sitting in the mountain?

Yes, you can safely leave cradle cap alone. Babies usually don't notice it much, and the flakes are not harmful. Therefore, there is no need to treat or remove cradle cap. So, if your baby isn't bothered by it, just be patient and trust the natural process. In the meantime, make sure to use an organic shampoo bar that is mild enough for your little one's skin.

Sometimes there are situations where treatment is useful – for example if the mountain stinks, you don't like it or you want to prevent it from getting worse.

When to remove a baby's cradle cap?

Although cradle cap usually goes away on its own, there are times when it’s good to take action. You may consider treating your baby’s cradle cap if:

• The lump smells (which may indicate a yeast overgrowth or sebum buildup)
• The scales are thick, crusty or yellowish
• The mountain expands to the flakes on the face, forehead or eyebrows
• Your baby sweats a lot or in warm periods

Treating Seborrheic Eczema: 7 Tips for Baby Cradle Cap

How can you reduce mountain in a natural, gentle way? Read the tips below!

1. Remove mountain with oil (coconut oil or argan oil)

Coconut oil is a classic for cradle cap. It softens the flakes and has a mild antifungal effect. But organic argan oil also nourishes and soothes baby skin—and your skin. Read more about argan oil for the face here.

Want to remove dandruff with oil? Massage a few drops of coconut oil or organic argan oil onto your baby’s head, leave it on for at least 30 minutes (or overnight), and then gently remove the loosened flakes with a washcloth.

2. Comb away baby's mountain

Loose flakes in your baby's hair can be carefully combed away. Do this with a soft hand and without pressure, otherwise wounds can appear in the scalp. Repeat this a few times a week, depending on the severity of the cradle cap. Possibly in combination with argan or coconut oil, as described in the first cradle cap tip.

3. Choose the right baby shampoo

Wash your baby's head with a sulfate- and paraben-free baby shampoo . This cleanses the skin without stripping it of natural oils. Please note: use a shampoo specifically developed for sensitive baby skin and avoid products containing perfume or alcohol. This way, you can effectively treat cradle cap in your baby and help prevent recurrence.

How to use a shampoo bar ? It's very simple! You can find more information with our hair products.

4. Mountain baby face: what can you do?

You can also carefully apply coconut oil to your baby's face. Let it work for a short while and wipe away excess oil with a soft cloth. Do not use soap or shampoo on the face afterwards, only lukewarm water.

Extra tip: use a hydrating face spray without alcohol or questionable ingredients. Flow Chamomile & Probiotics has a soothing effect, and added probiotics strengthen your little one's natural skin barrier. Chamomile water is also perfect for irritated baby bottoms, so it's a win-win!

5. How to Care for Mountain Baby Eyebrows

Brows on the eyebrows are often more difficult to treat. Use a cotton swab with oil and work gently. Do not comb the flakes away too hard and be extra gentle in this area.

6. Prevent baby mountain

Keep your baby's head clean and dry, and avoid clothing that is too warm. Babies who sweat a lot have a slightly higher risk of cradle cap. Use a mild baby shampoo weekly and care for the skin with organic argan oil to maintain the natural balance.

7. Mountain baby ointment: yes or no?

Preferably do not use regular ointment unless it is specifically intended for babies and is free of perfume and other synthetic additives. Also avoid products containing salicylic acid, as these can irritate sensitive skin. Our organic shea butter works better and more gently than a thick, occlusive ointment. This ointment is even suitable for delicate baby skin and is the best remedy for eczema.

With these gentle, natural tips, you can safely treat your baby's head, face or forehead. Give the process some time, be patient and trust the power of nature. In case of doubt or serious complaints, it is always wise to ask your GP or child health clinic for advice.

Does your little one have other eczema symptoms? Then also read our best eczema face tips.