Diaper rash – what it looks like, why it occurs and how to treat it
What is diaper rash?
Diaper rash is a common form of skin inflammation (dermatitis) in children who wear diapers. More than half of babies get diaper rash, most often between the ages of 4 and 15 months. It occurs more often in children with thrush), in infants who are taking antibiotics or after the introduction of complementary foods. Less frequent diaper changes, diarrhoea, introduction of new clothes washing agents, humidity and heat contribute to its development. As the baby’s skin is delicate and sensitive, superinfection with fungi and sometimes bacteria can easily occur.
What does diaper rash look like?
When diaper rash occurs, the skin is reddened and looks like a large red spot in the diaper area. It goes away with the use of diaper area skin care creams, and your baby will thank you if you leave her without a diaper for a period of time to allow the skin to dry and “breathe”.
How to cure diaper rash?
When a fungal infection occurs, most often Candida Albicans, the skin of the diaper area looks somewhat different: it is inflamed, extremely red and painful, and small white pimples are often observed. Your child is dissatisfied and irritable. In more serious cases, the skin may crack and bleed. If you suspect a fungal infection, you should seek the advice of a pediatrician who will recommend one of the antifungal creams that will quickly remove the signs of the disease and relieve you of your troubles.
What to do when the skin of the baby’s bottom burns?
The first and most important thing is to keep the skin of the diaper area dry and clean. When changing, it is useful to follow these steps:
- Wash the bottom with lukewarm water and pat it dry. Rubbing can be painful and uncomfortable.
- Use gentle baby soaps only if the poop is difficult to remove
- If the area is extremely painful, rinse the bottom with a gentle stream of water without rubbing
- If possible, leave the child without a diaper to let the skin dry on its own or pat it dry with a soft towel
- Do not use powder, but apply cream for the diaper area or medicine recommended by the doctor to the skin
