Diaper rash is a common skin condition in infants that causes discomfort and irritation. It results from prolonged exposure to moisture, friction, or being sensitive to some diaper materials. Although it is mostly mild, in some cases, it can turn into yeast diaper rash, which requires specific medical attention. Knowledge of effective diaper rash remedies will assist parents in preventing and managing this problem.
At Cloudnine, our skilled paediatricians help new parents take care of babies by guiding them on how to deal with diaper rash. Below is a comprehensive document to ensure that your baby has blemishless, healthy skin.
There are various reasons behind diaper rash such as:
1. Prolonged Moisture Exposure: Leaving urine and stool in contact with the skin for too long can be irritating. This can then cause diaper dermatitis since diapers are harsh on the skin, leading to irritation.
2. The Risk of a Yeast Infection: At times, a recurrent rash that has not improved even with normal diaper rash remedies may mean that yeast has overgrown in a place too moist and warm, such as on the bottom part of your baby’s body.
3. Allergic Reactions: Some babies may react to diaper materials, wipes or detergents.
4. Antibiotics: They alter the skin’s pH balance, thereby increasing the chances of developing a rash.
In order to keep your child dry and comfortable, follow these simple steps below in order to reduce diaper rash:
1. You must maintain cleanliness at all times – Keeping clean includes rinsing off poo, urine right after it has been released, and cleaning the skin using wipes now and then, especially when there are leaks from their diapers.
2. Drying the area without rubbing the skin – Patting skin dry is preferred to rubbing so as not to cause friction, which may lead to inflammation.
3. Use of a barrier cream – A protective ointment containing zinc oxide can prevent moisture absorption through diaper materials into the skin.
Early intervention is crucial when your child develops a rash. Below are some diaper rash treatment strategies you can turn to, in case it happens:
1. Keep it dry and clean.
2. Gently wash with lukewarm water and mild soap.
3. Apply an appropriate diaper rash cream.
4. Let the skin air dry before putting on a new diaper.
5. Zinc oxide creams or petroleum jelly may be used for soothing purposes, while products containing alcohol or strong fragrances should be avoided.
6. Do not dress in tight clothing.
7. Put on loose clothes so as not to cause more irritation.
Fungal overgrowth causes yeast diaper rash, which presents itself as red, inflamed blotches with little bumps, unlike common varieties. It requires specific treatment most of the time:
If symptoms persist, consult a paediatrician about what can be done.
1. Antifungal Creams: A physician might suggest using mild antifungal ointments for diaper rash treatment.
2. Frequent Diaper Changing: Keeping the area well-ventilated and not moist is advisable since this will reduce the chances of getting fungal infections.
3. Engage Paediatrician for Consultation: Trusted health care providers like Cloudnine would assist you with how your baby can be looked after in case there is no sign of relief at all times.
Though mild ones might be handled at home, consult a pediatrician if:
● The rash grows worse or spreads outside of the diaper region.
● It fails to disappear after lasting several days on end even if treated.
● When your newborn is feverish or their behaviourchanges, this could mean they are experiencing pain.
At Cloudnine, our paediatrics team provides expert advice on how to care for diaper rashes that are customised for each child.
Diaper rash is a prevalent but preventable condition that requires the right preventive measures and remedies. Therefore, it is important to maintain good hygiene, use barrier creams, and sometimes seek medical attention to care for your infant’s skin.
For all-encompassing consultation services on newborn health and expert paediatric care for babies, Cloudnine is available to guide you through every step. If you are worried about diaper rash or need expert advice, visit Cloudnine today.
Generally, a diaper rash can be treated successfully at home. One can keep the diaper area clean and dry after rinsing the baby’s bottoms with warm water. Moreover, you can gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Let your baby's skin dry completely before you put on another diaper. You can also pat the baby’s skin gently with a soft cloth to dry it as rubbing can irritate the skin and cause chafing. It is also recommended to change diapers every 2 hours or so, and after every poop.
The main cause of a diaper rash is prolonged contact of the skin with urine, faeces or both. This is because when urine breaks down, it releases ammonia which causes the pH of the skin to rise. The enzymes from the baby's stool become more active which then results in tissue/skin damage, leading to diaper rash.
Yes, you can use petroleum jelly to create a moisture barrier and help treat diaper rash, but there are other options in the market that do everything the same without clogging pores or risking contamination.
