What is Diaper Rash & What Causes It?

 

Diaper rash is a common form of inflamed skin (dermatitis) that appears as areas of sore and reddened skin on your baby’s bottom. Diaper rash can be alarming to parents and very uncomfortable for babies, however it usually clears up with simple at-home or over the counter treatments. It is very common for babies to have diaper rash at some point, and uncomplicated diaper rash is not a cause for concern.

 

 

Single or combined factors can cause diaper rash:

 

             •   Prolonged contact with stool or urine in diaper can increase risk of skin irritation and rash onset.

              •   Chaffing and rubbing of an ill-fitting diaper can exacerbate diaper rash.

              •   Irritation to the delicate skin by use of a new product.

              •   Introduction of new foods (diaper rash often appears at weaning).

              •   Bacterial or yeast (fungal) infections.

              •   Uses of antibiotics or other medications.

 

Natural Remedies for Diaper rash

 

As soon as you see any sign of diaper rash it is time to take-action. One of the first, and most effective things you can do is allow your baby plenty of time with no diaper so that the skin can breathe and heal in the air.

 

Otherwise, look no further than your kitchen for natural remedies for your baby’s diaper rash! Although these remedies aren’t medically approved, they’re tried and tested by mums around the world.

 

 

White Vinegar & Apple Cider Vinegar

 

Urine is very acidic and can burn a baby’s soft skin; vinegar can balance out the acidity. Make a very weak solution by adding one teaspoon of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to one cup of water. You may use this solution to clean your baby’s bottom between diaper changes. If you use re-usable diapers, you can make a solution of one cup of white vinegar to one bucket of warm water to soak your baby’s diapers.

 

Coconut Oil

 

Coconut oil is packed with anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties. Try using coconut oil to gently clean your baby’s bottom or to use as a safe barrier cream.

 

Corn Starch

 

To make sure your baby’s bottom is perfectly dry, try dusting with corn starch after carefully cleaning and patting your baby’s bottom dry with a soft towel. Dampness cannot be avoided in a diaper, but knowing your baby’s skin is thoroughly dry in their fresh diaper is a great start to managing and preventing diaper rash.

 

Oatmeal

 

Choose organic oatmeal and put a handful into a muslin and tie at the top. Allow this to soak in your baby’s bath for to soothe the skin.

Baking Soda is another way to soothe your baby’s skin in the bath – just add a couple of tablespoons.

 

Chamomile & Honey

 

Brew some organic chamomile tea (teabags of loose leaf) – allow the tea to cool and add a teaspoon of honey; Manuka honey, has great natural antiseptic and soothing properties – make sure your baby’s skin is dry after application.

 

Tea Tree Oil

 

To enhance coconut oil's antifungal properties, you can add 5 drops of tea tree oil to every 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Never apply the oil directly to the skin. 

 

Zinc & Caster Oil

 

This ointment forms a water-resistant barrier to protect dry and chapped skin, it can be the best for the relief of nappy rash symptoms when you need a barrier.

 

When to Seek Medical Help

 

Call your doctor if the rash does not get better in 4-7 days; if the rash is getting worse, or has spread over the body. If the rash appears to have a bacterial infection with symptoms such as a yellowish discharge or a yellow coloured crusting, or if any fever develops. If in any doubt consult your medical professional.