4 May 2022 | 6 min Read
Sayani Basu
Author | 607 Articles
Diaper rashes are a common skin concern for babies and can cause red splotches and scales to appear in the genital area and on the baby’s bottom. They are a form of inflamed skin (dermatitis). Sometimes, the rashes might spread up the child’s legs and to the stomach.
Diaper rash is often related to wet or infrequently changed diapers, chafing and skin sensitivity. It is more common in babies of six to nine months old.
Here’s everything you need to know about diaper rashes.
The symptoms of diaper rashes are:
A baby with a diaper rash often cries when the diaper area is washed or touched.
Some of the causes of diaper rashes are:
Sometimes, the ingredients used in some baby lotions, powders and oils can also add to the problem.
These rashes can be found within the creases of the skin, leading to red dots scattered around the creases.
Changes in your baby’s diet can increase the frequency of stools, which in turn can lead to diaper rash.
If your baby is breast-fed, he or she can develop diaper rash in response to something you have eaten.
Antibiotic use can also increase the risk of diarrhoea. Breast-fed babies whose mums take antibiotics are also at increased risk of diaper rashes.
Babies wear diapers the whole day. As a result, a baby’s bottom is constantly exposed to bacteria-breeding moisture. Therefore, a baby powder and a diaper rash cream are an essential part of a baby’s personal care regime to prevent and treat diaper rashes.
You should opt for a diaper rash cream that promises to prevent, treat, and soothe diaper rashes and skin inflammation. It will create a layer between the wetness and the skin, thereby protecting your baby.
Some diaper rash creams are infused with organic chamomile oil and hydrolyzed wheat protein. They repair the skin and retain moisture. While other creams are packed with organic jojoba oil and shea butter that increase collagen production and help to reduce rashes.
It’s advisable to use diaper rash creams that contain oils like the moringa oil, calendula oil, and other nourishing ingredients like aloe vera extracts, organic shea butter that are a safe solution for babies.
These ingredients soothe and heal your baby’s sensitive skin, and protects it from diaper rashes. The natural formula ensures that there are no chances of allergic reactions.
Choose diaper rash creams that contain ingredients that are completely devoid of mineral oil, petroleum jelly, paraben, phenoxyethanol, synthetic colour and fragrance, and silicone.
Apply a thick layer of the cream to the entire diaper area. Be generous in applying the cream. This can be used at every diaper change to help treat and prevent diaper rashes.
Although diaper rashes are common, it is recommended to consult your child’s paediatrician in case of an infected diaper rash. This form of severe diaper rash can be accompanied by fever, blisters on the diaper area, pus or discharge that drains from the diaper area and redness along with swelling.
There are some tips that can help mums to deal with their baby’s diaper rashes. It is advisable to wash your hands before and after every diaper change. It is important to check your baby’s diaper often, and change it after it gets wet or soiled.
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