Should you apply liniment to cradle cap?

There is a whole array of products and treatments available in pharmacies and parapharmacies and it is not always easy to choose the right ones. Some healthcare professionals advise the application of fatty substances such as liniment on cradle cap.

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Summary

The right habits to adopt

Above all, there's one thing you shouldn't do! Do not scratch the crusts dry with your nails or a brush, as this could lead to further irritation of the scalp, or even promote superinfection of the crusts.

In order to take care of cradle cap, it is recommended to implement some daily cleansing measures:

  • First of all, gently wash the scalp and hair,
  • Then brush hair after each shampoo to promote the mechanical removal of loose crusts.

Cradle cap and liniment

When cradle cap is thick, some healthcare professionals recommend applying a fatty substance, such as liniment, a few hours before the bath and massaging to soften the crusts. Their elimination will then be facilitated during washing with a gentle or treating shampoo.

Liniment is an extremely greasy product, since it contains at least 50% olive oil. It will "grease" the scalp and make the scales on its surface less dry.
If cradle cap crusts are really well attached to the scalp and/or very thick, there are specific dermo-cosmetic products that in addition to softening the crusts with a fatty substance, contain one or more mild keratolytic active ingredients that will allow the mechanical removal of the scales.

In case of doubt, treatment failure or if you no longer know what to do to fight against cradle cap, do not hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice or consult your pediatrician. They will support you and find solutions if cradle cap persists in spite of treatment.

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