what is diaper rash?

Diaper rash is a form of dermatitis – or inflammation of the skin- that looks like reddish patches on the skin on the buttocks, thighs, and genitals. In most cases, It is caused by wet or soiled diapers that aren’t changed frequently enough. In some other instances, it may be due to skin sensitivity and chafing. The condition is common in babies, though anyone who wears a diaper regularly can develop it, including adults and the elderly.

How common is diaper rash?

Diaper rash is very common in babies. In fact, some research has shown that babies between 4 and 15 months of age will have a diaper rash at least once in a two-month period. So, if there’s no reason for you to get worried if your baby develops this condition as probably many other moms are facing the same situation as you, and luckily the condition is somewhat easy to treat and manage.

How do I know if my baby is suffering from diaper rash?

The symptoms and signs of diaper rash can vary from mild to severe and typically include the following:

1. Fussiness or crying, especially at the time of diaper change, as the inflamed skin is particularly tender.
2. The skin in the diaper area, genitalia, and thighs becomes red in color with the development of sores that might get infected in severe cases. The skin might also start to flake or peel.
3. Small, raised bumps may develop, particularly in cases of fungal or bacterial infections.

What causes diaper rash to develop?

There are many factor that might contribute to your baby developing a diaper rash including:

Prolonged Exposure to Moisture:

Diapers, especially if wet or soiled for extended periods, create a warm, moist environment that can irritate the skin. Prolonged exposure to urine or feces can also cause adverse skin reactions.

Tight-fitting diapers

Applying diapers in the wrong way or fastening them a bit too hard can cause the diaper material, or clothing, to rub harshly against the skin. The baby’s skin is delicate and can easily be irritated as a result of this.

Trying new products

Sometimes, the reason behind your baby’s rash is as simple as the introduction of a new product. Have recently bought a new brand of baby wipes, diapers or a detergent, bleach or fabric softener? that could be the reason why your baby might be developing the rash. Ingredients in lotions, powders and oils might have the same effect as well.

Bacteria & fungi

Fungal (yeast) infections, especially from a fungus known as Candida, are common causes of diaper rash, especially when the baby’s diaper doesn’t get changed regularly creating a moist environment that helps the fungus grow and multiply. Bacterial infections can also cause diaper rashes, especially if the skin is broken or irritated.

How to treat diaper rash?

The first step to treating diaper rash is as simple as changing your baby’s diapers often. Try to keep the skin as clean and dry as possible. Change wet or soiled diapers right away. This helps cut down on how much moisture stays on your baby’s skin, which in turn discourages the overgrowth of bacteria and fungi.

Gently clean your baby’s diaper area and the surrounding skin with water and a soft washcloth. An alternative is using a wet wipe to clean the skin instead of water. Avoid wipes that contain alcohol and fragrance is they may irritate your baby’s skin. Use soap and water only if your baby’s poop doesn’t come off easily. If your baby’s rash is severe, use a squirt bottle of water so you can clean and rinse without rubbing.

After you’ve finished cleaning up the skin, it’s important to dry it immediately afterward. Pat dry; don’t rub. Allow the area to air-dry fully.

Apply a thick layer of protective diaper rash cream or ointment. You can get those over the counter at many pharmacies. The best diaper rash creams contain ingredients like zinc oxide or petroleum jelly. These ointments are usually thick and don’t have to be completely removed at the next diaper change. Remember, heavy scrubbing or rubbing will only damage your baby’s skin more.

Another thing you can do to prevent the rash from developing in the first place is to not make your baby’s diaper isn’t too tight, especially overnight. Keep their diaper loose so if they pee or poop it won’t rub against their skin as much.

If non of the above helps in improving the rash, you might need a prescription medication or cream like Ketoconazole to help solve the problem. Consult your family doctor or pediatrician for a prescription.

When to consult a doctor or a pediatrician about the rash?

Mild diaper rashes typically go away with home treatment within three to four days. More severe cases may require treatment with antibiotics or anti-fungal creams. With these medications, your baby’s diaper rash may take a week or longer to clear up.

However, you might need to consult a doctor if your baby develops one of the following happen:

1. The rash doesn’t improve after several days of using home treatments.
2. If your baby’s temperature rises and he develops a fever along with the rash.
3. The rash spreads to other areas of the body besides the buttock, genitalia and thighs.
4. The skin becomes extremely reddish or starts oozing.

How to prevent diaper rash from developing in the first place?

As we have mentioned previously, diaper rash is common in babies and young children, and while it’s not always possible to prevent diaper rash entirely, there the things that can be done to decrease your baby’s chances of getting the rash including:

1. Dry Up: Moisture, as we’ve talked about above, is a primary contributor to diaper rash, so keeping the diaper area and skin around it dry is key.
2. Diaper Change, often: Make sure to change your baby’s diaper whenever he pees or poops to avoid prolonged exposure of the skin to urine and stool, which might lead to irritation.
3. Vaseline is your friend: Apply a protective layer of barrier cream – which can be as simple as petroleum jelly- during each diaper change to help repair and protect the skin, especially if your baby has had a rash before or is prone to it.
4. Choose Products Carefully: Use fragrance-free, gentle wipes, and diapers designed for sensitive skin to minimize irritation, flaking and allergic reactions.
5. Air Exposure: You don’t have to keep your baby in diapers 24/7, let your baby go diaper-free for a few minutes throughout the day to allow the skin to dry up, breathe and recover.

As always, if you have any further concerns about your baby’s health, we recommend consulting your family doctor or pediatrician. And if you need a little extra help with your baby or newborn, we offer a wide range of baby care and newborn care services in Dubai and throughout the UAE. Call/ WhatsApp 050 873 8150 to book your appointment now.