Why Does My Baby Scratch His Head While Sleeping?
Being a parent comes with many new experiences and concerns. Many of those new experiences have to do with your baby’s behavior and development. While infants and babies all have the same basic needs, sometimes their behaviors can be strange or confusing. Especially when it comes to sleep.
From the exhaustion of colic to the concerns of your baby oversleeping, our little ones sometimes have odd sleep habits. If your baby starts scratching their head at night, you may find yourself wondering, "Why does my baby scratch his head while sleeping?"
It’s not as unusual as you might think.
There are several reasons why your baby might scratch their head while they’re sound asleep. While it can be concerning to witness, head-scratching during sleep is usually harmless and a normal part of your baby's development. Continue reading to learn more.
What it Means When a Baby Scratches Their Head During Sleep
It's helpful to understand the potential reasons behind this behavior. By identifying the underlying cause, you can take appropriate steps to alleviate any discomfort or irritation your baby may be experiencing. Here are some potential reasons behind it.
Cradle Cap
One of the most common reasons babies scratch their heads is cradle cap, a harmless condition characterized by crusty, yellow/brown scales on the scalp. Cradle cap can cause your baby itchiness and discomfort, prompting him or her to scratch their head—even while sound asleep.
This scalp condition is caused by an excess buildup of skin cells and oils. It's prevalent in newborns and young infants. While it may look concerning, cradle cap is generally not a cause for alarm and typically resolves on its own within a few months.
Skin Irritation
Babies have delicate skin that can be easily irritated by environmental factors. If your baby's clothing, bedding, or surroundings contain irritants or allergens, it can lead to skin discomfort and itchiness, causing them to scratch their head while sleeping.
Common culprits of skin irritation in babies include harsh laundry detergents, synthetic fabrics, dust mites, pollen allergies, or even certain foods your baby is sensitive to. Addressing these irritants can help alleviate the discomfort and reduce the need for scratching.
Self-Soothing Behavior
In some cases, head scratching during sleep may simply be a habit or self-soothing behavior that your baby developed. Just like adults, babies can find comfort in repetitive motions or actions, and scratching their head may be one of those soothing behaviors.
This habit can become ingrained, especially during sleep when your baby is seeking comfort and security. While it may seem unusual, this behavior is generally harmless. It can be a way for your baby to self-regulate and cope with any discomfort or stress they may be experiencing.
When to Be Concerned About Your Baby’s Head Scratching
Certain signs may indicate a more serious underlying condition if your baby scratches his or her head.
Talk with your baby’s doctor if you notice:
Excessive scratching
Redness or bleeding on your baby's scalp
Scratching accompanied by fever or irritability
Changes in appetite or sleep
Aggressive or incessant scratching that seems painful
It’s important to see a doctor if these other signs arise because head scratching can sometimes be a sign of an underlying neurological condition or sensory processing disorder. If you notice your baby scratching their head excessively or repetitively, or if it seems to be interfering with their daily activities, it's best to seek medical advice.
Tips to Prevent and Minimize Baby Head Scratching
If you want to help your baby break the habit or scratching their head, first address the potential causes. Make their environment more comfortable if you can. You can reduce discomfort or irritation in a few ways.
Keep Your Baby’s Scalp Clean and Moisturized
Maintaining a clean and well-moisturized scalp can prevent itchiness and discomfort that may lead to head scratching.
Use a gentle, fragrance-free baby shampoo to cleanse your little one's scalp.
Follow up with a mild, hypoallergenic moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
If your baby has cradle cap, you can gently massage a small amount of coconut or olive oil onto the affected areas before bathing to help loosen the scales. Brush them away with a soft-bristled brush.
If your baby has other scalp conditions, your pediatrician can give you individualized instructions on scalp and hair care for your baby.
Use Soft, Breathable Fabrics
The fabrics your baby comes into contact with can also contribute to skin irritation and scalp scratching.
Choose soft, breathable materials like cotton or bamboo for your baby's clothing, bedding, and blankets. These natural fibers are gentle on delicate skin and less likely to irritate. Additionally, wash all new items before they come into contact with your baby’s skin to remove potential irritants or residues from the manufacturing process.
Keep Your Baby’s Nails Short
To prevent your baby from accidentally scratching themselves and causing skin damage, keep their fingernails short and smooth. This will minimize the risk of scrapes, cuts, and scabs.
Use Sleep Mittens on Your Baby’s Hands
Consider putting soft mittens or sleeves to cover your baby’s hands during sleep. This can be especially helpful if your baby has a tendency to scratch excessively or if their nails are still bothering the skin. However, be sure to remove the mittens during waking hours to allow proper hand and finger development.
Track Your Baby’s Sleep Behavior Over Time
If your baby scratches their head during sleep, don’t worry. It’s a common and typically harmless behavior that often resolves on its own over time. If the scratching persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult your pediatrician for further guidance.
However, usually the best thing you can do when the situation is harmless is to monitor your baby’s sleep behaviors, including scalp scratching.
To easily track your baby's sleep patterns and behaviors, download the Baby Connect app. With Baby Connect, you can easily monitor your little one's habits, health, sleep, meals, and developmental progress, as well as share updates with your healthcare provider. Get started with a free trial of the app today!
