Diaper rash is the general term use to describe irritation and inflammation of the skin develop around the buttocks, genitals, upper thigh or lower abdomen areas covered by the diaper. Diaper related rashes are caused by soil diaper left on too long or friction of the diaper against the baby upper thigh; sometimes a change in brand of diaper or wipe can also irritate the skin. The signs may vary depending on the degree of the rash, from a slight sore like redness to aching areas of the skin that are raised, flaking or weeping. An over the counter tube of Desitin diaper rash cream will help soothe the sting and give your baby some immediate relief.
For a new parent the first appearance of diaper dermatitis on your baby can be a little scary, seeing your little one with raw looking bottom and tiny red sores for the first time can send some parents into a frenzy. Try not to panic, if the irritation have not spread to the baby’s entire body then most likely you are seeing a common case of diaper rash. Most first time parents are of the mistaken impression that they are in control of everything, but the truth is some things are simply part of your baby normal growing up process and diaper rash just happens to be one of them.
Your baby is not alone, all babies at some point experience diaper rash. Below are some helpful tips to cure and prevent diaper rash:
~ Clean skin is the best prevention and cure for diaper rash ~
– Always change diapers in a timely manner
– Change soil diapers immediately and if possible watch bottom with soap and warm water
– Dry your baby properly before putting on another diaper
– When possible allow your baby to ‘air out’ without diaper (just for a few minutes)
~ Barrier can help protect the skin ~
– Use a little bit of powder or Vaseline
– Skin Ointments and paste (A+D Original Ointment works great)
~ If you think the brand of diaper or wipes you are using is causing skin irritation ~
– try changing brand
– Try using wipes that are unscented
– Wash baby’s bottom with warm water instead of wipes
– Instead of cloth diapers use disposable diapers / pampers (especially if the baby has diaper rash)
Diaper rash if treated in a timely manner is not a major problem, but if the rashes become worst or last longer then a few days you should consult your pediatrician about the baby’s condition.
