A dry, flaky scalp is normal for an infant's tender skin, especially during the winter months when indoor air is dry. Dry skin usually clears up in time and isn't usually cause for concern, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Consult your physician if your baby's scalp cracks or seems painful or itchy, of if the dry skin doesn't improve after a few months.
Step 1
Wash your baby's scalp once every five to seven days. Avoid long, hot baths and opt for shorter baths in lukewarm water.
Step 2
Wash your baby's scalp with a soap-free, fragrance-free shampoo. Clean the baby's scalp by washing it with clear water and a washcloth.
Step 3
Place a humidifier in your baby's room to keep the air from becoming too dry. Use a quiet, warm-mist humidifier. Set the thermostat in your home at 68 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent dry, overheated air, suggests What to Expect.
Step 4
Massage a gentle moisturizer into your baby's scalp after bath time. Apply the moisturizer once or twice during the day to keep your baby's scalp hydrated.
Step 5
Treat your baby's scalp with oil if her scalp is extremely dry and flaky, or has yellow or crusty patches. Soften the areas with olive oil, baby oil or sweet almond oil, suggests AskDr.Sears.com. Allow the oil to remain on your baby's scalp for 15 to 30 minutes, and loosen the flaky skin gently with a soft toothbrush. Shampoo the oil out of your baby's scalp immediately, as oil can cause a rash if allowed to remain too long.
Things You'll Need
- Soap-free, fragrance-free shampoo
- Washcloth
- Humidifier
- Moisturizer
- Olive oil, baby oil or sweet almond oil
- Soft toothbrush
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