Diaper Rash

From LoveToKnow Baby

Nearly all babies will experience a diaper rash at some point in time. It usually isn't anything to be concerned about. Just what causes it, and how do you know if your baby's rash needs treatment?

Where Do Rashes Come From?

You've heard the expression "soft as a baby's skin", right? Sure, your baby's skin is soft and smooth for the most part. That is until she gets a diaper rash. Then her normally smooth, little bottom is covered with angry, red welts or bumps. What did you do wrong? Where did it come from?

Don't feel guilty about that rash. You didn't do anything wrong. Diaper rashes are just a simple fact of babies' lives. Think about it. Your baby has sensitive skin all over her body. Add to that the fact that she wears diapers which can rub and chafe skin, and why wouldn't she have a rash occasionally? Wet or dirty diapers can harbor yeast and bacteria, and this bacteria can irritate your baby's skin.

Treating Diaper Rash

Once your baby develops a rash, you'll need to begin treating it as soon as possible. Treatment isn't difficult, and you'll probably want to try at least one of the following methods.

Diaper Ointment-You'll want to purchase an ointment that contains zinc oxide. Zinc oxide will typically get rid of mild to moderate rashes.
Triple Paste-This is actually a pre-mixed ointment that you can purchase from your pharmacist. You may have to ask for it, however. If you can't find it, try ordering it from Summers Lab.
Lanolin-For mild rashes, sometimes all you need to apply is some pure lanolin to your baby's bottom.
Air Dry-If your baby has a diaper rash, try to give her some time without a diaper. If she isn't crawling or walking yet, let her lay on a clean, dry towel for a little while.

Prevention

While you can't always stave off a diaper rash, there are some steps that will aid prevention.

Change your baby's diaper often.
Be sure you clean her diaper area thoroughly.
If using cloth diapers, add a half cup of vinegar to your wash.
Try changing diaper brands, and if you are using any lotions on your baby, stop using or change those brands, also.
If your baby is prone to rashes, you might want to apply a light coating of diaper ointment with each diaper change.

Types of Diaper Rashes

There are actually several kinds of diaper rashes, and some rashes are actually yeast infections, which can be more difficult to treat.

Regular rash-This rash is characterized by flat, red skin.
Allergy rash-Your baby's rash may be caused by a food allergy. An allergy rash typically appears focused around baby's anus. Rule out any foods that may cause your baby problems.
Impetigo-This is typically a more severe rash. It is characterized by blisters which crust over.
Seborrhea-This type of rash can actually move up onto baby's belly. It is characterized by a raised and rough appearance.
Yeast infection-Yeast infections usually last longer than typical diaper rashes, and they can be more stubborn. If your child's diaper rash doesn't improve with over-the-counter treatment, you may need to contact your doctor.

As with any condition, if you have questions or concerns, contact your child's pediatrician.