Finding unusual bumps on your child’s scalp can be alarming—especially when the next available doctor’s appointment is still weeks away. Your thoughts immediately jump to the worst possibilities: Is it an infection? Lice? Something serious?

Take a moment to breathe. Most scalp bumps in children are harmless and easy to treat. While a medical evaluation is still important, knowing the most common causes—and how to safely care for your child at home—can ease your worry and help keep them comfortable while you wait.

**Common Causes of Scalp Bumps in Children**

**1. Cradle Cap (Infant Seborrheic Dermatitis)**
**Who it affects:** Babies, though it can continue into toddlerhood
**Appearance:** Yellow, greasy scales that may include small red bumps
Not painful and not contagious

**Home care:**
• Massage the area gently with coconut oil or baby oil
• Wash with a mild shampoo
• Use a soft baby brush to loosen flakes

**2. Folliculitis**
**Cause:** Bacterial (often Staph) or fungal infection of the hair follicles
**Appearance:** Small red bumps or white-tipped pimples around follicles; may itch or feel tender

**Home care:**
• Keep the scalp clean using a gentle shampoo
• Avoid hats or tight headbands that trap heat and sweat
• Do *not* pick or squeeze the bumps, as this can spread infection

**3. Head Lice Bites or Nits**
**Lice bites:** Tiny, itchy red bumps—commonly behind the ears and at the nape of the neck
**Nits:** White or yellow oval specks firmly attached to hair shafts (unlike dandruff, they do not brush off)

**Home check:**
Use a fine-tooth lice comb under bright light. Look for live lice (small grayish insects) or nits located close to the scalp.

**Treatment:**
• Over-the-counter permethrin lotion (follow instructions exactly)
• Wash bedding, hats, brushes, and combs in hot water

**4. Contact Dermatitis**
**Cause:** Irritation or allergic reaction to shampoo, gel, hair dye, laundry detergent, or even a new hat