If your child is in diapers, at some point you will probably deal with a diaper rash. At least half of all babies develop diaper rash.
Diaper rash, also called diaper dermatitis, refers to skin inflammation in the diaper region. The two biggest causes of diaper dermatitis are wetness and friction. Basically, urine and stool from the diaper can irritate your baby’s skin over time. Diapers can also rub against your baby’s bottom, creating friction. Changes in the pH of the skin from pee, poop or some skin products can cause rash. Typically, you’ll see red or pink skin with tiny papules or bumps. Your child may be uncomfortable and fussy due to itching, stinging and irritation. A diaper rash can be mild or appear as painful, open sores, which are susceptible to infection. Symptoms of diaper rash may include:
But while diaper rash is a common problem, there is plenty you can do to help your baby.
- Change dirty diaper as soon as possible. This reduce moisture on the skin that can inflame the rash.
- Be gentle while cleansing diaper area. Use luke warm water and a soft wash-cloth or baby wipes that are alcohol & fragrance free. If the rash is severe, use the squirt bottle of water to clean the area, as doing so is gentle to the skin. Next, allow the area to air dry. Let your child go diaper-free as long as possible to let the skin heal properly.
- Apply a diaper cream with zinc oxide. This is especially important if the skin stays red between diaper changes. If the baby has severe diaper rash, layer it on like you are frosting a cake. There is no need to remove the cream with each diaper change. It can be fully cleaned at the end of the day.
- Consult a dermatologist if your baby develops signs of a skin infection. Signs of a skin infection may include a fever, blister, pus that drains from the rash and a rash that does not go away after treatment or even worse further. Another sign of a skin infection is if the baby is in pain or is hard to console.
