by Gillian Taber

Created on: June 06, 2009

Causes of Diaper Rash

The condition is caused by irritation of the skin. Common causes include a dirty diaper that's been left on too long. A diaper that is too tight and does not allow air to circulate is another cause. Occasionally there is a reaction to washing powders or the wipes used to clean baby during a diaper change. Baby can also react to the brand of diaper in use.

Prevention

Prevention is better than cure. Keeping baby in a well-fitting diaper that's regularly changed and avoiding unnatural products can help reduce the occurrence of diaper rash. Avoiding the use of plastic over-pants is another good tip. The pants create a warm and damp environment which is a haven for germs and almost guarantees diaper rash.

There are plenty of lotions and potions on the market to help prevent and treat diaper rash but there are some ingredients which should be avoided as they are harmful to baby's skin. Check the list of ingredients and avoid those using camphor, compound of benzoin tincture, phenol and methyl salicylate.

One of the simplest methods of preventing nappy rash is to allow your child to be diaper-free as often as possible. Allowing the skin to breath in the air will help dry it. Even the youngest baby can be laid on a changing mat or blanket without a diaper whilst you play or talk to your baby.

If baby repeatedly suffers diaper rash try changing your brand of diaper, your washing detergent and any creams or wipes you may be using. If these actions do not cure the problem and tips such as these have not helped, seek the advice of your doctor or local child health clinic.

Natural is almost always best when it comes to babies and small children. The use of gentle, non-chemical methods is less likely to cause diaper rash and the following tips adhere to that premise.

Treatment

1 - Simple and natural, washing baby's bottom with warm (never hot) water and allowing the skin to dry thoroughly. No chemicals, nothing harsh on baby's skin and likely to be the cheapest option. Using a cloth made from natural materials rather than a wipe will also help.

2 - A natural treatment can involve the use of evening primrose oil, calendula or Vitamin E in cream form. These can be obtained online or at your local health store. Always ask advice before buying a new product and ensure that it is suitable for use with babies.

3 - Ask. Talk to other mothers and your family. Many natural remedies have been passed down through the generations and are very effective. Family remedies usually have a proven history of prevention or cure and are worth adding to your diaper rash fighting methods. A typical example of such a discussion, awash with tips from mothers, can be found here.

The only thing to watch for is the use of any remedy containing alcohol. Alcohol is not good for baby's skin. Scented products are worth avoiding also as they may cause a reaction or worsen an existing one.

4 - Petroleum Jelly is a long established product used in the prevention of diaper rash. An excellent herbal remedy using petroleum Jelly can be found here.

When to call the doctor

If nothing is working and baby is showing any of the following symptoms, seek advice from your medical practitioner.

Spot, blisters or ulcers appear Unexplained lumps appear around the area. Baby has a fever Baby is not eating well and/or is losing weight The rash appears on other areas of the body The rash does not respond after 1 week of treatment using the recommended actions If the baby is in the first 6 weeks of life

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