Home treatment diaper rash: Diaper Rash Treatment Tips: Home Remedies and More

Опубликовано: December 28, 2022 в 8:53 am

Автор: alexxlab

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Diaper Rash Treatment Tips: Home Remedies and More

Diaper rashes are a common skin concern for infants and toddlers. They can cause red splotches and scales to appear in the genital area and on the child’s bottom. In some cases, rashes might spread up the child’s legs and to the stomach.

Diaper rashes are common because they grow in warm, moist places. That makes a diaper the perfect place for the rash to develop. Factors that can make diaper rash more likely include:

diapers that are too tight
sensitive skin
irritated skin
antibiotics
introducing new foods

Fortunately, you can treat most mild cases of diaper rash at home. Try the tips below to help relieve your child’s diaper rash.

The most important step you can take to prevent and treat a rash is keeping your baby’s diaper dry and clean. When you change the diaper, clean the area gently with a soft cloth or a squirt of water from a bottle. Wipes are fine, just be gentle.

Don’t rub the skin too hard, and avoid wipes with alcohol. It can also help to give your child some time without a diaper when they have a rash. You can lay towels or disposable waterproof pads down so that your child can have some diaper-free time.

It’s best to change your child’s diaper as soon as possible. It only takes a little bit of trapped moisture to irritate the skin and cause a rash. That’s why even slightly wet diapers should be changed right away, especially if your child has an active diaper rash.

Cloth diapers have several benefits, but they’re not the best choice when your child has a diaper rash. It can help to switch to super-absorbent disposable diapers until the diaper rash heals. They’ll help keep your child dry and can promote faster healing.

Wearing the wrong size diaper can increase the chances of diaper rash and make it harder for an active rash to heal. A diaper that’s too tight can cause extra moisture and faster rash growth. A diaper that’s too large can rub and cause friction that makes rashes worse.

Check your child’s current diaper size. Switching to a new size might help.

You can use pastes or barrier creams that contain zinc to soothe the skin and prevent contact with feces and other irritants. Examples of these products include:

Triple Paste
A+D
Balmex
Desitin

Apply a thin layer to prevent stool or urine from touching your baby’s skin.

Jellies like Vaseline may be ideal, since they’re inexpensive and usually contain fewer dyes or perfumes. However, jellies may stick to cloth diapers and can be hard to wash off. They also don’t offer a barrier as strong as other creams.

Consider alternative soothing remedies

Some people claim that alternative or natural remedies provide better relief for their child’s diaper rash.

However, most of these methods haven’t been researched and aren’t backed by scientific studies. Use caution with any of them and stop if you notice that the rash is getting worse or doesn’t seem to be healing.

Popular alternative remedies include:

aloe vera gel
calendula cream
witch hazel ointment
shampoo clay
breast milk

Shop for diaper rash creams

Order these soothing creams online:

Triple Paste
A+D Ointment
Balmex
Desitin

When it comes to preventing and treating diaper rash, less is more. Avoid using highly fragranced products, including fabric softeners and dryer sheets. Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free are much less irritating for many babies.

You should also refrain from using baby powder on your baby. It’s a no-no for babies because they can inhale it, which can harm their lungs.

Cornstarch is another remedy that isn’t safe to use on little ones because they can also inhale the powder, and it can irritate their lungs. Cornstarch can also worsen diaper rashes caused by the fungus Candida.

Diaper rashes are caused by moisture and friction irritating your child’s skin. It often happens when urine and feces sitting against their skin in the diaper cause the skin to become red irritated. However, this isn’t the only cause. Other causes include:

diapers rubbing, chaffing, and causing irritation
an allergic reaction to laundry detergent, bubble bath, wipes, or another product that touches your child’s skin
a reaction to antibiotics
an allergic reaction to newly introduced foods

Diaper rashes are common and can happen to any child who wears a diaper. However, some risk factors make it more likely that a child will develop a diaper rash.

These include:

being between 6 and 9 months old
having diarrhea
having a cold or other illness
taking antibiotics
starting to eat solid foods
starting to sleep through the night

Although diaper rashes can look painful and irritated, they often won’t bother your child. The exception is when the rash becomes infected.

An infected diaper rash should be treated by a pediatrician. It’s a good idea to make an appointment if you suspect your child’s diaper rash is infected.

Symptoms of an infected diaper rash include:

blisters on the diaper area
fever
redness
swelling
pus or discharge that drains from the diaper area
a rash that will not go away after treatment or starts to worsen

Your baby’s rash can also develop into a secondary fungal or yeast infection called candidiasis. It appears bright red and raw.

It can sometimes be found in the creases of the skin, with spots of the red rash outside of the diaper area on the abdomen or thighs. These are known as satellite lesions.

Check with your doctor or nurse for a diagnosis if you notice these symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream if they think your baby has a fungal diaper rash.

If your child becomes difficult to console or seems to be in pain related to their diaper rash, these are also signs to call the pediatrician.

Diaper Rash: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Medically reviewed by George Krucik, MD, MBA — By David Heitz on February 27, 2020

What Is Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is an irritation of the skin. It occurs mostly in babies, and it is a common condition. In the United States, it affects up to 35 percent of children under two years old. Most children suffer from it at least once before they are toilet trained (Medscape, 2012).

Also known as diaper dermatitis, diaper rash causes uncomfortable burning and redness on areas of the skin that come into contact with and rub against a diaper.

Types of Diaper Rash

This article focuses on common diaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, which responds to basic treatments including frequent diaper changes.

Other types of skin rashes may be agitated by wearing a diaper. These rashes include other forms of dermatitis, psoriasis, and rashes caused by conditions such as syphilis, HIV, and bullous impetigo.

What Causes Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash occurs when someone sits too long in a soiled diaper. Diarrhea can exacerbate the problem. Sometimes a child will first experience diaper rash when beginning solid food or taking antibiotics. Breast-fed children can develop diarrhea from what is passed on by their mother’s diet.

Babies soil diapers every three to four hours, so it’s important to keep them changed. The acidic nature of human waste allows bacteria and yeast to thrive. All of these elements can irritate the skin.

Sometimes, diapers that are too tight or that don’t fit properly will cause chafing. Chemicals from detergents or other products that touch the baby’s skin, including the diapers themselves, can cause irritation.

Who Is at Risk for Diaper Rash?

As many as one in three children develop diaper rash. Breast-fed babies are at lower risk, due to reduced acidity in their diets. All infants and toddlers who wear diapers can develop diaper rash. Usually, diaper rash does not become a problem until the age of three weeks. Risk is highest for babies between three months and one year old.

Occasionally, diaper rash is passed from infant to infant.

What Are the Symptoms of Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash causes the skin to look red and irritated. Affected skin may also feel warm to the touch. Parents and caregivers should call a doctor if a bright red diaper rash lasts longer than 48 hours or is accompanied by a strong odor of urine, which may indicate dehydration (Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, 2012).

Other times to seek medical help include when rashes form blisters or become weepy, or if the baby develops a fever (Mayo Clinic, 2012).

How Is Diaper Rash Diagnosed?

Diaper rash is common. Most people who care for children know it when they see it. Sometimes, it’s still a good idea to call a doctor, who will offer an expert opinion based on prescriptions and other baby items.

Diaper rashes caused by yeast infections sometimes occur when an infant takes antibiotics. Those kinds of rashes will not get better without physician-prescribed ointment.

When you speak to your doctor, be prepared to discuss brands of diapers, lotions, detergents, and other household items your baby comes into contact with.

Treatments for Diaper Rash

Research published in the Scientific World Journal in 2012 suggests that creams made of plant derivatives, including aloe and calendula, help fight diaper rash (Panahi, et al., 2012). In particular, calendula fights inflammation and bacteria, two of the biggest problems with diaper rash.

Topical creams and ointments are commonly used to treat diaper rash. They include:

hydrocortisone to reduce swelling
antifungal or antibiotic creams to combat infections (a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics as well)
zinc oxide
creams and ointments containing steroids should be taken only at a doctor’s recommendation.

Home Care

It’s usually easy to treat occasional bouts of diaper rash with over-the-counter medications and smart practices at home. The best prevention is also the best cure: frequent diaper changes.

Make sure your child’s diapers fit properly and not too tightly. The diaper should allow air to get to sensitive areas. Try letting the baby go without diapers during naps.

Don’t use a lot of soap or wipes with alcohol or perfumes. These can cause drying, which can make symptoms worse.

Don’t use talcum powder. It can be harmful to babies when inhaled.

Prognosis

Diaper rash generally clears up with home remedies in a day or two. If it doesn’t, call a doctor.

Prevention

Diaper rash can lead to fussy, miserable babies. It is usually preventable if you follow these tips:

Wash your child’s buttocks with water during each diaper change. Pat dry with a soft towel. Don’t use wipes containing alcohol or perfumes.
Keep diapers loose. Consider letting your child go without diapers as often as possible.
Keep zinc oxide and petroleum jelly on hand. They’re important home remedies in the battle against diaper rash.

Last medically reviewed on February 27, 2020

Parenthood
Baby

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Diaper Rash. (2012, May 15). Medscape Reference. Retrieved August 12, 2013, from
emedicine.medscape.com/article/801222-overview
Diaper Rash. (2010, July). Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Retrieved Aug. 12, 2013, from h
ttp://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/diaper-rash/
Diaper rash. (2013, July 13). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved Aug. 12, 2013, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/diaper-rash/DS00069
Panahi, Y. , et. al. (2012, April 19). A Randomized Comparative Trial on the Therapeutic Efficacy of Topical Aloe vera and Calendula officinalis on Diaper Dermatitis in Children. Scientific World Journal. Retrieved Aug. 12, 2013, from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3346674/?report=classic

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb 27, 2020

Written By

David Heitz

Edited By

Frank Crooks

Medically Reviewed By

George Krucik, MD, MBA

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Medically reviewed by George Krucik, MD, MBA — By David Heitz on February 27, 2020

15 Best Home Remedies for Baby Diaper Rash | BuyMama Moscow

Diaper rash are red spots and scales in the genital area of babies, buttocks. Although this is a common problem, it needs to be addressed. If you have a newborn baby at home, you need to know how to prevent rashes and diaper rash if you want your baby to be completely healthy.

What causes diaper rash in babies

The following are some common causes of diaper rash in babies:

Diaper doesn’t fit and rubs
You leave a wet or dirty diaper on your baby for too long
Yeast infection
Bacterial infection
General irritants such as soap and wipes

15 natural diaper rash remedies

Wet and dirty diapers are the main cause of rashes in babies. From blisters and itching to tiny pimples and flaky skin, untreated diaper rashes can lead to bacterial infections in babies and cause discomfort.

1. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties and is one of the most effective remedies for diaper rash in babies.

Rinse your baby with warm water and dry with a soft towel. Then take half a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply it on the rash.

2. Vinegar

Because urine is alkaline in nature, it can irritate a baby’s skin if they wear a wet diaper for too long. Mix one and a half cups of vinegar in bath water and wash your baby.

You can also mix one teaspoon of white vinegar in a glass of water, soak a tissue in the solution, and wipe the skin. This method can be used every time you change a diaper.

3. Breast milk

Breast milk is an effective remedy for diaper rash. All you have to do is apply a few drops of breast milk to the affected area and let them dry on their own. For best results, put on fresh diapers as soon as you have tried this remedy.

4. Keep your baby clean

When bathing your baby, use a mild baby soap and change diapers as often as possible. Do not use alcohol wipes.

5. Corn starch

Cornstarch absorbs excess moisture and keeps your baby’s skin dry.

First wash the child, pat dry with a clean towel. Apply some starch to the affected area of the skin and gently put on a new diaper. Do this every day until the rash is gone.

6. Vaseline

Babies get their diapers dirty from time to time, which further worsens their rash. To treat a rash, wash your child, pat dry with a cotton towel, and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the affected area. Vaseline will protect the affected area from the damage caused by urine and feces, thus preventing diaper rashes. Change diapers frequently and use petroleum jelly until the rash disappears.

7. Have an oatmeal bath

Oatmeal is a proven remedy for rashes. It provides pain relief. You can take a tablespoon of dry oatmeal and mix it in your bath water. Let your child sit in the tub for 5-10 minutes. Then wipe off his skin. Be careful not to rub, as rubbing will only make the condition worse. If the rash is severe, try using this remedy twice a day for best results.

8. Time without diapers

One of the main causes of rashes in children is the lack of air circulation around the lower body. Therefore, you should definitely give your baby time during the day when he can go without a diaper.

Airing will cure the rash much faster.

9. Chamomile tea and honey

A mixture of chamomile tea and honey acts as an antiseptic for diaper rash. Eliminates rashes and heals the skin. Mix about two cups of chamomile tea with a teaspoon of honey and spray this mixture daily on the rash to help it heal quickly.

10. Aloe Vera

If the rash is accompanied by severe inflammation, then you should use aloe vera gel. You can use fresh aloe vera gel or store-bought aloe vera gel – both are natural and will provide relief to your child.

11. Baking soda

Baking soda helps balance the pH levels and removes unwanted bacteria and fungus from baby’s skin. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda in warm water and rub your child’s rash regularly with this solution.

12. Tea tree oil

The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of tea tree oil make it an excellent remedy for diaper rash in babies. Take about three drops of this oil and mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil.

13. Essential oil spray

The essential oil blend is also good for treating diaper rash in babies. Mix almond oil, tea tree oil, and lavender essential oil with a little water and store it in a spray bottle. Use this spray on affected areas for effective results.

14. Yogurt

Plain yogurt (meaning no added sugar or cornstarch) can be used to treat diaper rash and inflammation. Apply a thick layer of yogurt to the affected area and the rash will clear up in a couple of days. You can use plain yogurt in the same way as diaper rash cream. Use room temperature yogurt on the affected area, then put on a diaper.

15. Epsom salt

Epsom salt is known for its high magnesium content and anti-inflammatory properties. Mix half a cup of Epsom salt with warm water and let steep for 10-15 minutes. After that, have a bathing session and repeat this two to three times a week.

When to see a doctor?

Diaper rash usually heals and disappears within a few days. Most parents resort to home remedies for diaper rash, but they are not always effective. You should take your child to the doctor if you notice the following symptoms in your child: fever, skin blistering, swelling, rash that does not go away for several days despite treatment.

Intertrigo – articles on health

Intertrigo – inflammation of the skin caused by bacteria, viruses or fungus, irritation from fat-sweat and other secretions, lack of free air access to the affected areas, their constant moisture and friction, allergic reactions to cosmetics or food products.

Causes of diaper rash

As follows from the very definition of diaper rash, the cause of this disease lies in skin irritation from various infections.

The folds of the skin, where it is always warm and humid, create ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria. The bacteria themselves enter the skin along with sweat secretions, fatty skin secretions. Urine, discharge from fistulas and hemorrhoidal cones, when it comes into contact with healthy skin, begin to actively multiply, while we observe a picture of redness, peeling, and erosion of the skin surface.

In hot weather diaper rash occurs more often than usual. Obese people with a large number of fat folds are especially susceptible to this disease. In infants, diaper rash occurs in the absence of proper care and poor hygiene.

It happens that diaper rash occurs due to an allergic reaction to a food or cosmetic product. To accurately identify the cause of allergic diaper rash, an examination by specialists will be required.

Symptoms

They are accompanied by skin redness, severe itching, pain. Most often they are found in the groin, on the buttocks, in the lower abdomen, in the armpits, in any folds of our skin.

There are three degrees of the disease:

Lung

It is characterized by slight redness, while the skin is not damaged, there is only a slight swelling.

Medium

Here, along with strong redness, obvious mechanical damage is visible on the skin.

Severe

Severe skin damage, bright red color, ulceration.

The initial manifestation of diaper rash always begins with reddening of the skin – erythema, which gradually spreads to healthy areas. In severe forms, diaper rash is accompanied by infections. Streptococci and fungi are the most common of them.

Treatment

In the initial stage of the disease, it is enough to remove the causes of its occurrence. It is necessary to frequently and thoroughly wash all the folds of the skin with warm water, a solution of pink potassium permanganate, and special antiseptic agents. After washing, be sure to thoroughly blot with a cotton cloth until completely dry, powder with talcum powder or use baby cream, zinc ointment, any drying creams and ointments.

It is necessary to ensure free access of air to sore spots, if necessary, gauze pads can be fixed on them.

With moderate diaper rash, lotions and compresses are effective. Medicinal baths based on medicinal herbs are very helpful in the fight against diaper rash. In addition to the purely therapeutic effect, they provide an opportunity to relax and unwind, have a beneficial effect on the human body as a whole.

Prevention of diaper rash in children

Bed linen and clothes of the child should be only from natural cotton fabrics, clean and ironed with a hot iron for disinfection. It is impossible for the child to be wet, for this diaper should be changed as soon as they become wet. If diapers are used, it is important to pay attention to their quality and size – no hard and rubbing parts are allowed. After bathing, be sure to dry the baby’s body well with a soft cotton towel, blot all the folds of the skin. It is better to powder problem areas of the skin with special baby powder or grease with boiled vegetable oil.