What is adult cradle cap?
When you hear the words cradle cap the first thing that comes to mind are babies. That’s true! Cradle cap is another name for Seborrheic Dermatitis in infants. It usually occurs during the baby’s first few months and clears up within a year. However, it can also affect adults, normally ages 40 and below. Adult cradle Cap or Seborrheic Dermatitis (Seborrhea, Seborrheic Eczema) is a chronic skin condition that causes skin inflammation. It is usually seen on the scalp but can affect other parts of the body where the oil glands are very active like the face, back and chest areas.

Symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis:

• Oily or greasy red patches on the scalp.
• Forms yellow or white scales
• Crusted scales are attached to the hair but can be easily removed
• Can be very itchy
• Your scalp can be sore
• It can also affect the parts of the body where the oil glands are very active like the chest and back areas

Seborrheic Dermatitis can sometimes be confused with Scalp Psoriasis. Please be aware that Seborrheic Dermatitis and Scalp Psoriasis are two different skin conditions. You can read more about their differences through this helpful article: Seborrheic Dermatitis vs. Scalp Psoriasis.

Causes of Seborrheic Dermatitis

Cradle cap both in infants and adults are not contagious. It doesn’t also mean that you have a bad hygiene. The underlying cause of this skin condition is still unknown. However, there are combinations of factors that can cause Seborrheic Dermatitis like:

• Your genetic make-up. It is believed that having adult cradle cap is hereditary.
• A fungus called Malassezia.Malassezia is naturally found in the skin and the reaction of the skin’s sebum and the fungus can cause Seborrheic Dermatitis
• Weather. Extreme weather like seasonal changes; Cold and dry as well as hot and humid weather can trigger this skin condition.
• When your immune system is weakened. Fatigue, stress and lack of sleep are also a factor.
• Hormonal imbalance, some medical conditions (Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and Depression) and medicines (Lithium, Psoralen, Interferon) can also increase your chances.
• It is highly recommended to consult with a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Aqi Sensitive Everyday Shampoo and Conditioner are highly recommended products to calm and soothe sensitive, dry and itchy scalp.