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Seeing tiny, red bumps or bright patches on your little one’s bottom can make any new parent worried, but diaper rash is a common condition that almost all babies will go through at some point, especially during the first three years of their life.
What does diaper rash look like?
According to WhatToExpect, there are different types of diaper rash. These include:
1. Chafing
This is the most common type and looks like redness all over the skin, accompanied by small spots or bumps in “areas of high friction.”
2. Yeast infection
This bright red, tender rash starts in the creases between the stomach and thighs. It can spread to other areas of the body.
3. Impetigo
This is a type of bacterial infection characterized by large, pus-filled sores that break open and ooze yellowish fluid, then crust over.
4. Intertrigo
This raw rash can appear on skin folds. It is itchy and can ooze white or yellowish fluid.
How to prevent diaper rash
There are many factors that can affect baby’s diaper rash. Here are some tips and reminders to avoid it.
1. Don’t leave a soiled diaper on for too long.
Baby’s skin can get irritated if you let him wear a soiled diaper — whether because of pee or poop — for an extended period. This is also the reason babies with frequent bowel movements or diarrhea are more prone to diaper rash.
2. Check if baby’s diapers are too tight.
A tight diaper can rub against the skin and cause irritation. This can lead to rashes.
ADVERTISEMENT – CONTINUE READING BELOW3. Watch out for yeast.
Diapers can leave very little room for air circulation. This creates a warm, moist environment that bacteria and fungi like yeast love.
4. Be wary of irritants and allergic reactions.
Ingredients in disposable diapers, baby wipes, laundry detergent, soap, or lotion can all irritate your little one’s delicate skin. It’s also possible that baby’s skin is too sensitive that he can still develop diaper rash even when you’re being careful.
5. Observe baby when introducing new food.
Rashes are common when your baby is introduced to solids or after feeding them a new type of food. The food can change the composition of your little one’s stool which causes rashes.
6. Watch out when taking antibiotics.
If you’re breastfeeding and taking antibiotics, or if baby needs to take this medicine, it can increase the risk of yeast infection, according to WhatToExpect. Antibiotics can also lead to diarrhea, which leads to diaper rash as well.
Easy treatment and remedies for diaper rash
Diaper rash is common and usually clears up within a few days. Here are some home remedies you can try:
1. Avoid wet wipes.
Newborns are especially prone to diaper rash. Many of our Smart Parenting Village moms suggest soaking cotton balls in warm water to clean baby’s private parts instead. Then pat dry with a washcloth.
2. Try an ointment or petroleum jelly.
Rash creams and petroleum jelly can act as a protective barrier between baby’s skin and a wet diaper, but the key to making it work is to make sure your little one’s bottom is dry before applying it.
CONTINUE READING BELOWRecommended Videos“If it can lock moisture out, it can also lock moisture in, which defeats the purpose of keeping your baby’s skin dry,” explains pediatrician Dr. Ina Atutubo in a previous SmartParenting.com.ph article.
There are different products in the market, but it is always best to consult a pediatrician first. Our Village moms swear by products like petroleum jelly, Calmoseptine, Drapolene, and hydrocortisone creams.
3. Buy a bigger diaper size.
If you can, loosen your baby’s diaper a bit or opt for a size bigger to allow better air circulation and less rubbing. If you think the diaper is causing the rash, try another brand.
4. Pay extra attention to what baby wears and what products you use.
Look for mild and fragrance-free soaps and detergents — harsh chemicals can cause diaper rash. Choose cotton clothing and avoid using fabric softener. If you must use wipes, look for hypoallergenic ones and stop using it if it causes diaper rash.
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