Gently massage your baby's scalp, not scrub. Use your fingertips or a soft washcloth to cleanse their delicate skin. Avoid harsh scrubbing or using anything scratchy like your fingernails.
Gentle Scalp Cleaning Techniques
Several reputable sources emphasize the importance of gentle cleansing when washing a baby's head. Aggressive scrubbing can irritate the sensitive skin. Here's how to properly clean your baby's scalp:
- Use a mild, fragrance-free shampoo: This is crucial for preventing irritation. Many baby shampoos are specifically formulated for this purpose. (Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, AAD, WebMD)
- Massage gently: Use your fingertips or a soft washcloth to gently massage the shampoo into the scalp in a circular motion. (Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, AAD)
- Avoid harsh scrubbing: Never scrub your baby's scalp vigorously. This can lead to redness, irritation, and discomfort. (Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, Alberta Health Services)
- Consider a soft brush: For cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), a soft brush may help remove scales after applying a mild shampoo. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)
- Rinse thoroughly: Make sure to completely rinse all shampoo from the hair and scalp to prevent any residue that might irritate your baby's skin. (Source: Alberta Health Services)
Frequency: Most sources recommend washing your baby's hair with a mild shampoo once or twice a week, or every other day if needed. (Source: Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, AAD)
Addressing Cradle Cap: If your baby has cradle cap, you can apply baby oil to their scalp before bathing to loosen the scales, and then gently massage while shampooing. (Source: AAD) Remember to be extra gentle if dealing with cradle cap.
