You might have your own diaper rash go-tos by now, but it never hurts to have a few backup ideas of how to treat it. If you haven’t encountered diaper rash yet, you’re either very lucky or very good at prevention!
Managing diaper rash
Keeping the diaper area clean and dry is the most important step, more than any fancy product.
- Change early and often.
Frequent diaper changes allow for Baby to remain clean and healthy. Whenever Baby needs a change, make sure to respond to their needs. Clean dirty areas gently during every diaper change, and avoid scented diapers, wipes or soap, which can irritate sensitive skin. If possible, use soft, wet washcloths instead of wipes while diaper rash is healing. - Avoid baby powder.
This product can actually build up in Baby’s skin creases and hold moisture, which can help bacteria grow and cause an infection. Talc and cornstarch powders contain tiny particles that can be inhaled by Baby, so the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says to skip this step entirely. - Switch diaper brands,
Sometimes, particular diaper brands can irritate Baby’s sensitive skin. It can often take some experimenting to find just the right one. If you use scented diapers, the first switch should be to an unscented brand. - Allow for air-drying.
There is a reason it’s called diaper rash! Going diaper-free and exposing skin to the open air is very effective in helping to prevent or clear diaper rash. If possible, plan certain times when the diaper can remain off for extended periods. - Soak in the tub.
Let Baby sit in a warm bath for 10 minutes three times a day. Add a little baking soda or plain oatmeal to the tub for some extra healing power. You should also make sure to pat dry, as opposed to rubbing, as this could irritate already sensitive skin. - Lay it on thick.
Barrier creams containing zinc are some of the best at treating diaper rash. But are you using enough? Probably not! The layer of cream should be so thick that no skin shows underneath.
If a diaper rash persists even with careful tending, Baby‘s pediatric provider may evaluate them for a fungal or bacterial infection, which might require additional treatment. These rashes are often shiny, very red and spread quickly. Typical diaper rashes can take a few days to start to disappear, even with treatment. If the diaper rash doesn’t start to improve after a prescribed treatment, be sure to let their provider know.
Read more
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Diaper rash.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic. April 7, 2020. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaper-rash/basics/treatment/con-20019220.
