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