Baby dandruff: what it is and how to treat it | Parenting Hub
Flaky scalp in babies — when it's just dandruff, when it's cradle cap, and what helps. Nurse-reviewed, aligned with Raising Children guidance.
White flakes on baby's scalp are common and harmless. Gentle washing usually clears it; thicker, yellow scale is cradle cap.
What is it?
Dandruff is small, dry white flakes on the scalp. In babies it's usually mild and harmless. If the flakes are thick, greasy and yellow-brown, it's more likely cradle cap.
Symptoms
- Small white or grey flakes in hair or on shoulders
- No redness or itch
- Scalp looks otherwise healthy
Causes
- Normal skin cell turnover
- Dry air or over-washing
- Mild seborrhoeic dermatitis (overlaps with cradle cap)
What helps
- Wash hair 2–3 times a week with a mild baby shampoo
- Gently massage the scalp with your fingertips while shampooing
- Brush hair with a soft baby brush after bath
- Avoid medicated dandruff shampoos unless your GP recommends one
When to see a doctor
See your GP if the scalp becomes red, weepy, very itchy, smells unusual, or the flaking spreads to the face and body. These can be signs of seborrhoeic dermatitis or eczema needing treatment.
When to seek urgent care
Urgent review if there's pus, fever, or fast-spreading redness on the scalp.
When to seek help
- Weeping, crusting or pus
- Spreading red rash on face or body
- Fever with scalp changes
Common questions
Is it cradle cap?
Cradle cap is thicker, greasy and yellow-brown, often in patches. Dandruff is fine, dry and easily brushed away. See our cradle cap article for treatment.
Can I use oil?
A small amount of plain emollient or baby-safe moisturiser, massaged in 20 minutes before a wash, can lift flakes. Skip olive oil — current guidance advises against it on baby skin.