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Diaper rash is a common skin condition found in babies and toddlers who wear diapers. While it can be frustrating and initially alarming to have your child get diaper rash, it’s usually not a cause for major concern. Diaper rash is often caused by letting the skin sit against dirty or wet diapers too long, which leads to red, inflamed skin.
The best treatment for diaper rash might take a little trial and error and the advice of your doctor, and some diaper rash can be treated with ingredients you already have at home.
What causes diaper rash?
Think about wearing a diaper for a moment and you can understand why diaper rash is so prevalent among babies. You have urine and poop collected in a bulky pad that may sit on the skin for a while before you can change the diaper. Both pee and poop throw off the pH balance of your baby’s skin leading to irritation. Combine that with elastic bands to hold everything in place, and you can also get chafing which can lead to diaper rash on its own.
Also, be cognizant about any new products you use on your baby’s bottom; remember that your baby’s skin is sensitive and may be irritated by new soaps or lotions. The same can be said as you introduce your baby to new foods which can increase the frequency of stools leading to diaper rash.
Salena McKelvey knew food could be the cause of her son’s problem. “Luckily, I knew he tried pineapples for the first time and the acid can cause diaper rash,” she explained to Mom.com. Another common cause of diaper rash is a yeast infection that often starts because of antibiotics use.
When your baby has diaper rash, you will notice the bright red coloring of the skin that can extend from the buttocks to the thighs and genitals. You may even suspect diaper rash before you unwrap their bottom because your baby may be uncomfortable and somewhat distressed. Babies will often fuss or cry during changes or baths when they have diaper rash.
What to do about diaper rash: Remedies and preventative treatments
Treating diaper rash should begin with a call to your doctor to assess the severity of the rash and to get advice on how to treat it. Also, when it comes to diaper rash, prevention is worth its weight in gold. Here are some treatments — and some preventative measures you can take — to bring relief to your little one:
1. Change often
Get those dirty diapers off baby as soon as possible. “Change diapers frequently so skin is not in prolonged contact with a wet or soiled diaper,” Pierrette Poinsett, MD told Mom.com.
2. Warm water washes
Wash your baby’s bottom during diaper changes with warm water. If you use soaps, choose a mild, fragrance-free one.
3. Pat skin dry
Gently pat the bottom dry instead of wiping it for a more soothing way of doing it.
4. Make sure diapers fit properly
Tight diapers and clothing can lead to more chafing. It also prevents airflow that keeps the area moist and primed for diaper rash.
5. Go diaperless
When possible, let your baby go without a diaper for a while during the day. This is the most gentle way to let the bottom dry and prevent diaper rash. A good time to go without a diaper is right after your baby has done her business.
6. Use ointments
Petroleum jelly and zinc oxide are great ways to prevent diaper rash. They create a barrier between the skin and irritants.
7. OTC medications
Brands of diaper rash medication you might find at your drugstore include Aquaphor, Burt's Bees, A + D, Balmex, Desitin, Triple Paste and Lotrimin (used for yeast infections). Make sure you use products formulated for babies, and check with your doctor before applying any medications.
The Mayo Clinic advises you avoid products containing baking soda, boric acid, camphor, phenol, benzocaine, diphenhydramine, or salicylates, as these ingredients can be toxic for babies.
Natural treatments and home remedies for diaper rash
In most cases, home remedies for diaper rash will be enough to resolve the problem. Here are some ways you can fight diaper rash at home:
8. Zinc oxide
This creates a barrier between the rash and any irritants to alleviate what is causing the problem. The thick, pasty cream is also soothing to your baby’s bum.
9. Baking soda bath
A lukewarm bath with two tablespoons of baking soda helps alleviate the acidic pH of the skin and kills bacteria that is growing.
10. Apple cider vinegar
Soak your baby’s bottom in a lukewarm bath that has two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar which will help restore the pH of your baby’s skin. Be sure to rinse thoroughly after soaking.
11. Coconut oil with lavender essential oil
Use as a moisturizer for the bottom. The mixture will help kill any bacteria while soothing the skin and promoting skin cell growth. Make sure to check with your doctor before treating with any essential oils, as some can be toxic to kids and babies.
12. Pure aloe vera juice
Use the juice and not a gel to help restore the natural pH of the skin. The juice is soothing with a cool sensation to the touch and also has antibacterial properties to help heal the area.
You’ll want to see a doctor if the diaper rash persists, is accompanied by a fever, bleeds, or itches. If your child is in pain when urinating or having a bowel movement, call your doctor. Your baby may need a prescription medication.
