Important Information about Cradle Cap and Kopec Naturals Cradle Cap Comfort

What is cradle cap and what causes it?

Cradle cap is a non-contagious skin condition also known as infant Seborrheic dermatitis, but it is commonly referred to as cradle cap because the condition is usually found on the scalp of babies. Cradle cap usually occurs in the first three months but can occur anytime up to a year. There are several theories on what causes cradle cap. One theory is hormones from mom pass through the placenta just before birth causing sebaceous glands to become overactive. Another theory is new skin cells on baby grow faster than baby can shed the old skin cells. There is also the possibility of the sensitivity of new baby skin to harsh chemical ingredients found in even the gentlest of shampoos, baby wash and moisturizers and the skin becomes congested in the most sensitive of spots.

What are the symptoms of cradle cap?

The most common symptoms of cradle cap are dry or greasy, flaky, crusty skin patches of skin found mostly on the scalp forehead, ears and neck. Sometimes the condition can spread to the face. Typically the condition will occur where sebaceous glands are the most active, and sebaceous glands are usually most active where hair grows such as the scalp, ears, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Other places Seborrheic dermatitis can occur include the nasal folds, body folds and creases including the naval and groin. The skin infected with Seborrheic dermatitis is extremely sensitive and is often irritated by soaps, shampoos and ordinary moisturizers.

Why is cradle cap so difficult to clear?

Cradle cap is so difficult to clear because health professionals cannot agree on what causes the condition to begin with, as a result recommendations on how to care for baby skin varies.

How should I use Cradle Cap Comfort?

Cradle Cap Comfort can be used after a bath when skin is warm on all dry and irritated patches of skin, paying close attention to the dry and crusty patches. After a few minutes you may gently massage the crusty patches on the scalp with a soft washcloth being careful not to break the skin which can cause a secondary infection to set in. Cradle Cap Comfort can also be used every 4-6 hours during an outbreak to keep skin properly functioning. The most important feature of Cradle Cap Comfort is its ability to help skin function properly so the skin begins to filter and release necessary bacteria on its own (known as “proper release of sebum”), and to suffocate any bacteria before it multiplies on the skin. It is necessary to use Cradle Cap Comfort often until the skin clears. Often we expect an instant cure, but in order to address a chronic condition correctly without damage to other organs, a longer investment is necessary. Additional tips to consider:

1. During an outbreak, bathing once a day is important. Bath water should be lukewarm (between 82-84 degrees) and should not exceed 85 degrees. Hot water can further inflame the outbreak. Do not use soap or other irritating body washes which can further keep the skin from functioning properly. Do not rub the skin on the body with a washcloth. If your child finds the water “burns” the skin this may be a reaction from the chlorine and other chemicals in our water supply. Remember how sensitive the skin is during an outbreak. Suggestions for eliminating the “burn” of bath water are: 1. Purchase a water filter for the bath tub, OR 2. to fill a small baby bathtub/sink with distilled water, OR 3. Add a half cup of sea salt into the bath water. (When using a salt bath, please test the water for irritation on a section of the skin before entering the bath).
2. Avoid using any products, soaps, baby washes, shampoos containing Lauryl sulfates, especially Sodium Lauryl sulfate, also known as Sodium Laureth sulfate. During an outbreak the use of soaps and washes can be altogether eliminated. If necessary consider Dr. Bonner’s castile soap for babies.
3. Avoid the use of mineral oil (either straight or as an ingredient in baby oils) and avoid petrolateum or petroleum jelly. The harm of these ingredients on the skin are too numerous to list but are a very real toxin to the skin.
4. Avoid the use of diaper wipes on infected skin. Wipes often encourage bacterial overgrowth. Use a damp paper towel or cotton wash cloth instead.
5. Keeping baby from scratching is very important. Infants that cannot keep from scratching should wear cotton socks over their hands to keep from further infecting their skin. Children that can keep from scratching during the day should still wear cotton socks over the hands at night. Scratching during sleep is often an involuntary response.
6. The body can further heal while sleeping, and so it is important to ensure a proper night’s sleep. If sleep patterns are interrupted by an outbreak of a skin condition, calming products such as Kopec Naturals Child Calm before bed can help give a restful night’s sleep.

Can I email you with additional questions?

I am so very happy to help you improve your health, share my thoughts and experiences, and provide you with relevant information. I am here to help, but I will also urge you to be very proactive in the solution. Often the solution may require extra work that is unpleasant for us to consider, but it can be the path to health and healing.

Laura Kopec, Nutritionist and Health Educator is studying for her Doctor of Naturopathy, and pursuing her PhD in Health Psychology. She has been creating health remedies since 1998, and in addition to her nutritional consulting and public speaking, she provides health information and support to customers as part of the exemplary customer service Kopec Naturals offers.

Information provided is solely for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not use this information for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing of any medications or supplements. Only your healthcare provider should diagnose your healthcare problems and prescribe treatment. None of our statements or information, including health claims, articles, advertising or product information have been evaluated or approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products or ingredients referred to are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, diet or exercise program, before taking any medications or receiving treatment, particularly if you are currently under medical care. Make sure you carefully read all product labeling and packaging prior to use. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, do not take any supplements without first consulting and obtaining the approval of your healthcare provider.