A common, yet frustrating baby skin
problem is diaper rash. Diaper rash is a
skin irritation typically caused by
irritants or excessive moisture in the
diaper area. Diaper rash is especially
common when baby starts eating solid
foods, is teething, or is taking
antibiotics.
A mild case of diaper rash involves a
simple, red rash, while more serious
cases can actually include blistering,
bleeding and open sores. There are
several steps you can take to avoid
diaper rash or to treat a mild case:
~ Change baby frequently -- it is
important to keep baby dry and clean.
Cloth diapers need to be changed more
frequently than disposables. Remove
soiled diapers immediately.
~ Avoid using diaper wipes,
especially those with heavy perfumes and
alcohol. Instead, use lukewarm water and
a washcloth to cleanse the diaper area.
Pat dry or allow to air dry completely
before putting another diaper on.
~ If using cloth diapers, wash in a
mild detergent - again, without perfume
or bleach. If using disposables, try
changing brands for persistent rashes.
~ Apply a thin layer of diaper rash
ointment or petroleum jelly on baby’s
dry bottom during diaper changes and
after bath. If baby is particularly
sensitive and prone to diaper rash, you
may want to get into the habit of doing
this at all diaper changes to prevent
further outbreaks.
~ Allow baby to go diaperless
whenever possible. The fresh air will
keep baby’s bottom dry and if he’s
recovering from a case of diaper rash,
it will feel wonderful to his tender
skin. Just a few minutes of fresh air
can make a difference.
~ If the rash does not clear up
within a few days, if there is bleeding,
blisters or open sores, or the rash is
primarily in the folds of baby’s skin,
contact your pediatrician. The rash may
actually be a yeast infection, or may be
serious enough to require preion
medication to aid the healing process.
Few babies are fortunate enough to
avoid this pesky condition altogether
during their diaper days. However, by
keeping baby’s bottom clean, dry, and
away from known irritants, you can
lessen the chances and severity of an
outbreak.
