Suggest Treatment For Dry Scaly Rashes On The Scalp In A Child

Posted on Wed, 29 Jun 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 29 Jun 2016 Answered on

Tue, 19 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi Doctor,

My son is 6 months old and recently we are seeing dry crusty scale on his head.
He never had this before after birth.

Should we get him examined by a pediatrician or will it get cured by itself.

Thanks,

Answered by Dr. Dr. Pradeep Kumar Jain (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It may be seborrhea capitis

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for the query

Dry scaly lesions over the scalp is very common in infancy.It is due to increased production of sebum by the glands or infection with the fungus (Malassezia furfur spp).
It is a self limiting condition and there is not much to worry.In most of the cases it gets improved with conservative treatment.
I would suggest you to apply oil (coconut or olive oil,Baby oils can also be used)over the scalp during bed time ,leave it overnight for loosening of scales.Wash the scalp in morning with mild baby shampoo.Do this 3-4 times a week.
If there is no improvement consult your physician for evaluation.Antifungal or mild steroid cream helps in such condition.

I hope this helps.
Please let me know if you have any doubts.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar