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Cradle Cap is one of the unexpected things a parent experiences with his/ her first child. It is very common for a three month old baby or a toddler of two years to develop cradle cap. Cradle cap, resembling and often mistaken for dandruff, is a deposition of flaky, crusty and greasy skin rash on the scalp. It is either yellowish or creamy- brown in color. Though severe cradle cap is a rarity, it is advised to stave off the scales on a regular basis. Now, following are a few natural remedies which scale from mom- tested solutions to doctor- approved treatments.
Following Trusted Effective Natural Remedies For Cradle Cap:
Shea Butter
Baby skin is tender and softer as compared to an adult. Shea butter, also being a natural remedy for cradle cap, works wonders on baby skin without having any side effects. It prevents the pores on the scalp from clogging and leaving any greasy residues. Take half a cup of Shea butter and apply it very gently on the scalp. Extreme care has to be taken so as to not scrub off the deposit, even by mistake. After 20 minutes, using a soft comb, gently start to pick out flakes from the scalp. Wash the scalp with shampoo and wipe. Each and every step should be performed tenderly. Tea Tree Oil Tea Tree oil, often known as the Wonder Oil of nature is highly toxic. This oil has anti- fungal and anti- septic properties due to the presence of terpenoids (natural lipids) in it. It should be applied with utmost care as it is volatile in nature and should not come in contact with eyes, nose and mouth. Because it is very strong, it should be heavily diluted with a carrier oil before application. Mix tea tree oil with almond oil in the ratio 1:10. Leave the mix on the scalp for 15 minutes and wash off with a mild shampoo.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is preferred by all mothers due its moisturizing capability on a softer skin and easy availability. The presence of Vitamin E and fatty acids activate the anti- microbial and anti- fungal properties in it. Thus, forming a layer of protection around the delicate scalp and also making it easy to brush off the cradle cap deposit. Apply the oil very gently. Comb the hair in upward motions. You will see that the dry flaky substances will start sticking to the comb. Don’t rush this process.
Olive Oil
Olive oil comprises of anti- oxidants which cleanses, protects and moisturizes the human skin. Vitamin A and E help restore the elasticity of hair and is capable of penetrating deep into the scalp and prevent the pores from clogging. Apply small amount of olive oil to the affected area. After 10- 15 minutes, gently rub the scalp with a warm cloth. Wash with mild shampoo later.
Calendula (Marigold) Flowers
Because of its flavonoid content, calendula flower has anti- septic, anti- inflammatory and anti- viral properties. It speeds up the healing process and increases blood flow to the scalp. This makes it easier and quicker to treat cradle cap. To treat cradle cap, an infusion of calendula herb can be made. Dry some calendula flowers in the sun. Put the dried flowers in a cup. Cover them up with virgin olive oil, cover it and leave for 2 weeks. After the stipulated time, drain the flowers from the oil and store the oil only. Apply on the affected area and leave for half an hour. Use a fine comb to gently pick out the dead skin off the scalp. Afterwards, wash the scalp with shampoo and warm water.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.