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?

Mountain is a mild form of seborrheic dermatitis in babies, which usually occurs 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 can be a little red, but cradle cap is not painful and usually does not itch.

Please note: mountain is different from dry skin, which can itch. Here you will find our best itchy scalp grandma tips.

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 will disappear on its own within a few weeks to months. Sometimes it can take a few years for all the scales to disappear. Baby cradle cap is very common and is a completely oharmless skin condition, but it is understandable that you would rather remove it. Especially if the pile on your baby stinks or keeps coming back stubbornly.

Can you leave a baby sitting in the mountain?

Yes, you can safely leave cradle cap on. Babies usually don't notice it and the scales are not harmful. Therefore, there is no need to treat or remove cradle cap. So if your baby is not bothered by it, just be patient and trust the natural process. In the meantime, make sure that organic shampoo bar that is gentle 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 mountain. It softens the flakes and has a light anti-fungal effect. But organic argan oil also has a caring and soothing effect on baby skin - and on your skin. Read more about it here argan oil for the face.

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 the head with a baby shampoo without sulphates and parabens. This cleanses the skin without stripping the natural oils. Note: Use a shampoo that is specially formulated for sensitive baby skin and avoid products with perfume or alcohol. This way you can effectively treat your baby's cradle cap and help prevent it from returning.

How a use shampoo bar? It's very simple! More information can be found in 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 moisturizing facial spray without alcohol or questionable substances. Flow Chamomile & Probiotics has a calming effect and added probiotics strengthen the natural skin barrier of your little one. chamomile water is also perfectly suited for irritated baby bottoms, so 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 wearing clothes that are too warm. Babies who sweat a lot are slightly more likely to get cradle cap. Use a mild baby shampoo once a week and care for the skin with organic argan oil to maintain the natural balance.

7. Mountain baby ointment: yes or no?

It is best not to use regular ointment unless it is specifically intended for babies and is free of perfume and other synthetic additives. Also avoid products with 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 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.