Diaper rash happens to every baby at some point in time, and depending on how sensitive your baby’s skin, it may happen frequently. Learning how to prevent and treat the rash will help your baby to be more comfortable and rash free.
What is Diaper Rash?
There are several types of diaper rashes. A regular diaper rash, that every baby will get at some point in time, is due to moving contact with a diaper and appears as red, irritated skin.
A yeast rash appears as a red, raised rash with crisp edges in addition to isolated red spots. Treatment for this rash can include an anti-fungal such as Nystatin as well as a topical diaper rash ointment.
Impetigo appears as large round blisters or raised patches that will ooze. This requires a prescription antibiotic in addition to typical diaper rash treatment.
An allergy ring can be caused by any food that irritates baby’s bottom, including citrus and acidic foods such as tomato based sauces. It appears as a red ring on baby’s bottom and you should eliminate that food from the baby’s diet or from mom’s diet if she is breastfeeding.
Preventing Diaper Rash
Whenever possible, it is best to prevent diaper rash altogether. To do this, you should change your baby’s diaper frequently. Change poopy diapers as soon as absolutely possible and be sure to clean baby’s bottom thoroughly.
If your child seems to have sensitive skin, and is prone to diaper rash frequently, use either unscented wipes or clean with water. You can also use a barrier cream (diaper rash cream) even when there is no rash present.
Treating Diaper Rash
All babies get diaper rash, no matter how carefully you attempt to prevent it. When you notice your baby’s bottom becoming red or the beginnings of a rash starting, treat it promptly. When cleaning the bottom, wash gently, and do not rub on the sore area. Before putting on a clean diaper, generously cover affected area with a barrier cream.
Ensuring some air flow is helpful, and if you are at the upper end of the weight range for the size diaper you are using, consider moving up to the next size to allow more air flow. You can also allow baby’s bottom to air dry, leaving the diaper off for a while.
For bad rashes, an oatmeal bath can be helpful. Be sure to dry baby’s bottom completely after a bath before putting on a new diaper.
Use preventative measures for diaper rash every day, and treat any rash promptly. If an open sore develops from the rash, or if the rash does not clear up, call your doctor to ensure that you do not need an antibiotic or antifungal to help clear the rash up.
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