No matter how vigilant you are, your child will most likely get diaper rash at some stage. The majority of babies do! Fortunately, there are creams and ointments to treat the problem, as well as diapering know-how that can help deter it before it occurs. So, schedule ahead of time. Learn how to cure nappy rash to keep it from recurring. Your baby's butt will thank you!
What is a nappy rash?
Nappy rash is a typical side effect of using wet or soiled nappies. As we know, nappies are usually removed at 15 months of age, and until then, nappy rash can be a strong enemy to fight. Despite the fact that urine is usually clean (except for certain conditions or infections), it can be a bit painful for the skin. Therefore, leaving the baby in a wet nappy for a long time can lead to nappy rash. For this reason, it is advisable, if the baby sleeps in a nappy, to remove it when he wakes up, as some children may suffer from what is known as nocturnal enuresis.
Some babies' skin can be very sensitive, and they can grow rashes on other areas of their bodies as well. Infections, such as thrush, aggravate the inflammation. A few babies develop nappy rashes when they have a cold or another contagious infection.
Ways to Prevent Nappy Rash
Follow these simple measures to avoid nappy rash:
- Remove the nappy as much as possible.
This allows for fresh air to reach the skin. You can't, of course, keep the nappy off all the time. The more fresh air, though, the better. Allowing the baby to lay without a nappy on a towel or plastic absorbent sheet for some time per day can be beneficial, as this will aid in keeping the diaper area dry. However, as soon as the towel or sheet gets damp, replace it.
- Maintain a clean and dry setting.
The most important thing you can do to avoid and cure a rash is to keep your baby's diaper dry and clean. Always make sure the diaper isn't too tightly packed.
While changing your baby's diaper, use a soft cloth or a squirt of water from a bottle to clean the area gently. Wipes are acceptable; however, you must use them with caution. Stop using alcohol-based wipes and rubbing the skin too rough.
Diaper Changing Suggestions
- It would be best if you washed your hands before and after diaper changes.
- Check the baby's diaper often and replace it as soon as it becomes damp or soiled.
- Make use of pure water. Use a gentle cleanser to remove feces from your baby's skin.
- Rather than rubbing, gently pat the surface clean and dry.
- Use a clean, fluffy washcloth to clean the baby's bottom.
- When putting on a new diaper, make sure the area is spotless and dry.
Application of powders such as talcum powder is not recommended.
This can trigger skin irritation. It would help if you also avoided soaps, bubble baths, and lotions.
Make use of barrier creams or ointments.
Barrier creams or ointments, available in pharmacies, can help protect the skin from wetness: they act as a buffer between your baby's skin and poo or pee from any leakage. Apply a thin layer of protective topical cream just before putting on each nappy. Apply sparingly, however, as it can reduce the "breathability" of the nappy. The following ointments are recommended:
- An ointment containing zinc and castor oil.
- Metanium®
- A cream made of light white paraffin.
- Ointment Bepanthem®
When to call the doctor!
While diaper rashes can appear uncomfortable and aggravated, they usually do not harm your infant. The rash gets contaminated if it becomes infected. If the rash seems to be infected, contact your child's pediatrician.
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