Diaper rash is a common ailment among babies. Some babies have sensitive skin and are more prone than others to develop diaper rash. It can take on many forms, but a diaper rash typically appears on or near the baby’s bottom, around the area where a diaper meets the skin.
The primary cause of diaper rash is moisture. If a baby’s bottom is not thoroughly dry when a new diaper is donned, wetness gets trapped and creates an ideal environment for yeast to grow. If not treated, diaper rash can become serious. Often, diaper rash troubles parents more than it seems to bother babies, but if left untreated, it can become severe and extremely uncomfortable for your little one.
When changing your baby’s diaper, first, clean the area thoroughly. Newborn babies’ skin is often very sensitive, and sometimes common chemicals found in wipes are too harsh for their tender skin. As a general rule, it is a good idea to refrain from using packaged baby wipes on newborns. Washcloths or cotton ovals (commonly used for makeup removal) moistened with water are both gentler alternatives.
Next, after your baby’s bottom is clean, be sure to dry it completely. A cloth diaper or hand towel can be used to gently blot a baby’s bottom dry. Some parents use hairdryers to ensure a totally dry bottom, but if you do, be sure to only use the low setting and low heat: hot hairdryers held too closely to a baby’s bottom can cause severe burns.
Finally, when you’re sure your baby’s bottom is dry, apply diaper cream liberally to the affected area. There are a wide variety of diaper creams available over the counter. Some are petroleum jelly-based, while others’ primary ingredient is zinc oxide. Keep in mind that one brand may work better on one baby than another. Choosing the right brand for you and your baby requires patience and trial-and-error.
If your baby’s diaper rash does not go away within a few days, you should call your pediatrician. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe a prescription-strength yeast medicine (nystatin) or a PAD compound. In extreme situations, diaper rash can develop into open sores, in which case silver sulfadiazine could be needed to heal the wounds.
As is often the case, the best cure for diaper rash is prevention. However, if you are the parent of a baby with a sensitive bottom, there are many treatment options available. Find the one that works best for you and your baby, and take action immediately.
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