Your 5 Week Old Baby A Parent's Guide to Newborns

What Might Concern You at 5 Weeks

Some babies develop cradle cap. This is white flakes on the baby’s head that will remind you of adult dandruff. This is quite normal in many babies, and there are things you can do to try to clear up the flakes.

Simple shampooing on a daily basis may make it worse. As with adults, daily shampooing can dry out your babies scalp and make the flakes worse. For minor cases of cradle cap, try massaging mineral oil or Vaseline on your baby’s head before shampooing. Let it sit and loosen the flakes, then shampoo as normal. Keep your babies head cool and dry as sweat can make the flakes increase in consistency. Cradle cap is not dangerous to your baby, but when in doubt, check with your pediatrician.