Diaper Rash Information
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Definition: Diaper rash is inflamed skin that appears as
a patchwork of bright red skin on your baby.
This can occur anytime a baby wears diapers (more common in first 15 months)
most commonly occurs between 8-10 months of age. There are two basic types
of diaper rashes, those related to diaper use and those not related to
diaper use. You can’t prevent all
rashes, but you can prevent some.
When to go to the doctor: If your baby has signs and symptoms of a diaper rash that doesn’t improve after a few days of treatment at home or anytime symptoms are severe or occur along with a fever.
PREVENT or MINIMIZE DIAPER RASH BY…
When to go to the doctor: If your baby has signs and symptoms of a diaper rash that doesn’t improve after a few days of treatment at home or anytime symptoms are severe or occur along with a fever.
PREVENT or MINIMIZE DIAPER RASH BY…
- Change diapers often (not matter what type you
use). Bacteria starts to multiply after 20 minutes of exposure to your baby’s
skin.
- Clean your baby’s bottom with warm water and a mild
soap as part of each diaper change. This
will remove enzymes, microorganisms and acidic residue. NOTE: Soaps and wet wipes will sting if a rash is present; use a
moisturizing non-greasy cream (if the condition is not eczema) or a bath
oil instead.
- Gently wipe your baby from front
to back (never wipe from back to front, especially on girls or you could
spread bacteria into their genitalia). Don’t forget to wipe the creases in the
thighs and buttocks!
- Pat your baby dry with a clean towel (no
scrubbing) or let them air dry prior to putting clean diaper on.
- Don’t over tighten diapers (tight fitting diapers
set up a moist environment).
- Give your baby’s bottom more
time without a diaper (drying the skin helps prevent some kinds of rashes).
- Wash cloth diapers carefully
(fragrances and fabric softeners can cause some rashes).
- Consider using ointment
regularly (use either a petroleum jelly or zinc oxide product) for their skin
protection.
- After diaper changes wash your
hands well (to prevent the spread of bacteria or yeast to you, your baby, other
children).
IF YOUR BABY DEVELOPS A RASH …
- Avoid
any products that may trigger a further rash. Avoid using plastic pants or
diapers with plastic edges.
- Wash
your baby’s bottom with water after each diaper change; AVOID soaps and wipes that
contain alcohol or fragrances.
- Give
your baby as much diaper-free time as possible so that their skin has a
chance to dry and start healing.
- Change
your baby more frequently than normal.
- Apply prescription creams according to
directions.
The doctor may have prescribed a topical
steroid and/or antifungal
cream. It should be applied once or twice a day. Do not apply it to normal
skin. When the rash has cleared up completely, do not continue to apply the
topical steroid. The anti-yeast preparation should be applied for a least a
week more than it takes to clear the rash. Ask your doctor if you are not sure
how, when and where to apply the cream(s).
Websites with Pictures that help you identify which rash your baby may have:
- Desitin’s website – www.desitin.com/how-to-identify-diaper-rash
