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Nappy Rash is the inflammation of the skin around the nappy area.
What to look for
a burn-like red rash over
the nappy area
if not treated, the rash
can become infected and thrush sets in - the rash will become shiny and bright red with
patches.
in boys, an inflamed
penis.
Almost all babies develop a
nappy rash at some time and it is rarely serious. Most cases do not last long and can be
treated easily enough.
Your baby can get nappy
rash whether you use disposable or cloth diapers; it is moisture which is the problem, not
the nappy itself. Keeping your child clean and changing a nappy soon after it is soiled is
the key to avoiding this problem.
Causes
This problem can be
caused by:-
Nappies left on
too long
If cloth nappies are not
washed properly and the bacteria are left in there.
inadequate drying of the
baby's skin after a bath
allergic reaction to
lotions or soaps
chemicals in the laundry
detergent
thrush,
a type of yeast infection
Traditional Treatment
Most diaper rashes respond
well to home treatments and require no medical care. If your baby's rash fails to improve
after three or four days, see your doctor
For an ordinary rash, the
doctor may recommend an over-the-counter ointment containing zinc oxide to protect the
skin. If there is a bacterial infection present, see your doctor.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Aromatherapy -
Mix
2 drops each of essential oils of
sandalwood,
peppermint, and lavender in 4 tbsp of a carrier lotion or oil such
as sweet almond oil; gently apply the lotion to the reddened area of skin. Do not use on
babies younger than 2 weeks.
See our
aromatherapy section.
Mix
2 drops each of essential oils of
sandalwood,
peppermint, and lavender in 4 tbsp of a carrier lotion or oil such
as sweet almond oil; gently apply the lotion to the reddened area of skin. Do not use on
babies younger than 2 weeks.
See our
aromatherapy section.
Herbal Therapies - Calendula cream may relieve diaper rash. Calendula cream may relieve diaper rash.
Personal Care
At the first sign of
redness, wash your baby's bottom with warm water, and dry it thoroughly. Then apply an
antiseptic cream and a barrier ointment, such as sorbolene cream mixed with water, or zinc
oxide, to protect the skin.
Use oilated oatmeal or raw
oats in your baby’s bath. Oatmeal is very good to use on the rashes.
Change your baby's nappy as
soon as it becomes soiled.
Until the rash clears up,
avoid plastic pants or diaper covers, which trap moisture.
Prevention
Keep your baby dry and
clean and change the baby's nappy as soon as it becomes soiled.
Do not use strong
detergents and creams which may irritate your baby’s skin.
When drying nappies, hang
them outside in the sun, then put in the drier for several minutes to soften them.
Keep nappies off as often
as you can to let air into the area - not too often outside in the open hot sun.
Wash cloth nappies in hot
water and sterilise well.
If the entire nappy area is
red and irritated, the child may be allergic to your detergent. Try another brand to see
if the rash clears.
The best preventive measure
is to let your baby go without nappies as much as possible.
When to seek further
professional advice
you see no improvement
after four days of home treatment,
the rash is scaly and has
a yellowish colour or is blistered
your son's penis is
swollen and red.
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