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What to Do About My Baby’s Diaper Rash?

Does your child have a diaper rash? Don’t worry, you’re not a bad parent! Most infants will get a rash in their first week of life: at some point, there will be an episode or episodes of rash even if you clean your diapers well! Here’s what to do about your baby’s diaper rash. 

What Is Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is an inflammation of the fragile skin of a baby’s bottom that can occur during the first year and a half of a baby’s life. The thin, delicate skin of a baby’s bottom is very fragile, and if exposed to feces or urine, the skin can develop painful lesions. Although diaper rash is not harmful to immediate health, it is very unpleasant and painful for the baby and can cause other problems!

If you notice:

• Very red and hot buttocks;
• Red patches on the buttocks, thighs or genitals;
• Very sensitive and painful skin on the buttocks;

Your baby may have a diaper rash! 

Keep an Eye Out for Diaper Changes

Diaper rash should be taken seriously, as it can progress to a more severe infection (fungal or bacterial) of the genitals or groin. Pay special attention to this problem if your child is on antibiotics, as this may change his or her usual gastrointestinal condition. If treated promptly, diaper rash should disappear within a few days of the lesions appearing on the skin of the buttocks.

What Causes a Rash on the Buttocks?

The skin on your baby’s bottom is constantly in contact with a diaper! Whether it’s a disposable or cloth diaper, if not changed regularly or cleaned correctly, it can cause problems with the skin barrier. Stool and urine, or things like perfume in disposable diapers can cause diaper rash.

Red marks or lesions on the skin of the buttocks can be caused by bacteria or fungus. If not treated properly, there is a risk of the infection spreading to other areas of the body!

Moisture and acidic pH from stool and urine can make it worse, so be careful. When introducing food, you may also notice the beginnings of irritation; by introducing one food at a time every few days, it will be easier for you to identify the various reactions.

H2: How to Prevent Diaper Rash?

• Put your baby in diapers that fit well and don’t block airflow;
• Be aware when buying cloth diapers: some are much more absorbent and can keep the bottom dry;
• If you use disposable diapers, try different brands to see which one is best for your baby;
• Some studies have shown that breastfeeding reduces the risk of diaper rash: breastfed children have fewer bowel problems;
• Cleanliness is key! Make sure you wash your hands before diaper changes to reduce the risk of diaper rash;

What to Do in Case of a Rash?

Have you noticed redness, very red bottoms or increased sensitivity in your child? It’s possible he or she has a diaper rash! Below are Pravi’s recommendations for preventing and treating diaper rash:

First of all, What Do You Clean Their Booty With?

Several children have delicate skin and react to toiletries containing perfume or preservatives. A cleanser or protective cream that balances this acidity is often appreciated by little ones! Do you know what oleocalcaire liniment is? Here is a post that might interest you.

If you use disposable wet wipes, choose a brand that doesn’t contain fragrance or alcohol to protect baby’s skin. There are several simple steps you can take to avoid diaper rash and the need for stronger treatment, including using gentle cleansers or a clean washcloth. 

If You Use Cloth Diapers:

Remember to clean your cloth diapers and wash them well! Reusable diapers are great, but whether they are made of cotton or bamboo, it is important to properly wash your baby’s diaper to avoid bacteria and potential infection. Direct contact with a poorly washed diaper creates the perfect conditions for diaper rash to develop.

Here is a short video on the daily care of diapers (around the 13 minute mark) as well as a link to a method for cleaning cloth diapers.

If You Use Disposable Diapers:

Be aware that some disposable diapers contain perfume that can cause irritation. No matter what brand of disposable diaper you use, the sooner they are changed, the less irritation there will be! Also, be careful not to wrap the diapers too tightly because they may prevent air from circulating and make the skin dry.

Last but not least, leaving your baby’s bottom out in the open is often a life-saving treatment for diaper rash! The more time the baby spends without a diaper, the faster the healing process will take place. It’s a good time for you to go out and buy a quilt!

What Treatment is Available for Baby’s Skin?

A Zinc Cream Treatment

Despite our best efforts, diaper rash can sometimes occur. Apply a zinc-based ointment or cream (10 to 20%) when the redness is not very severe and add a paste (20 to 40%) when the irritation is more extensive*. It’s important to choose a cream that won’t aggravate your child’s bottom. 

Whether you decide to buy or make your own zinc ointment, choose a zinc oxide product that is free of nanoparticles. To learn more, read this article. Do not hesitate to contact the manufacturers if information is missing. If I were to buy a cream, I would look at Green Mouse’s Herbozinc.

Avoid any creams with added fragrances or perfumes, which are very common in baby products. Have you read the article on ingredients to avoid in cosmetics? The same recommendations apply to the composition of baby’s buttocks creams.

In Case of Advanced Infection, an Antifungal Cream Can Be Used

In case of a bacterial or fungal infection, you may need to use an antifungal or antibacterial cream. Do not hesitate to consult a pharmacist or your doctor if the symptoms persist or if the situation worsens. Hang in there! Diaper rash shouldn’t take long to disappear from your life!