When the condition affects the scalp, shampoos containing tar or antifungal agents (such as selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, miconazole or ciclopirox) are usually effective.
Creams containing antifungal and/or corticosteroid can be used for the face and trunk. Agents that help exfoliate the scaly skin such as salicylic acid are also useful. Treatment often needs to be used on a regular basis in order to clear the condition completely, with intermittent use thereafter to maintain long term control.
In babies, cradle cap can be treated by softening the scales on the skin with a little olive oil applied before bathing, and then removing the scales gently with a cotton bud. Sometimes a cream containing a mild corticosteroid (such as hydrocortisone 1%) or an antifungal agent or a tar-based product may also be useful to clear the scaling.