Diaper Rash Guide

Diaper rash affects almost every baby at some point. Understanding the causes and proper treatment helps it heal quickly.

What is Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is skin inflammation in the diaper area. The buttocks, inner thighs, and genital area become red, and in severe cases, blisters or raw skin may develop.

Causes

Main Causes

• Moisture: Damp environment inside diaper
• Friction: Diaper rubbing against skin
• Urine/Stool: Ammonia and enzymes irritate skin
• Prolonged contact: Delayed diaper changes

Other Causes

• New foods: Stool changes after starting solids
• Antibiotics: Changes in gut bacteria
• Diaper brand: Allergic reaction to certain products
• Wipes: Irritating ingredients
• Yeast infection: Candida fungus

Severity Levels

Mild

• Skin is slightly pink
• Skin folds look fine
• Baby doesn't seem very uncomfortable

Moderate

• Red and slightly swollen
• Small bumps visible
• Baby cries during diaper changes

Severe

• Skin is raw or peeling
• Blisters or pus
• Bleeding
• Baby is very uncomfortable

Treatment

Basic Care

• Change frequently: Every 2-3 hours
• Dry thoroughly: Air dry after cleaning
• Diaper-free time: 10-15 minutes daily
• Loose fit: Don't fasten diaper too tight

Cleaning

• Use lukewarm water gently
• Prefer water + soft cloth over wipes
• If using wipes, choose fragrance-free, gentle ones
• Pat dry instead of rubbing

Creams/Ointments

• Zinc oxide: Creates protective barrier (Desitin, etc.)
• Petroleum jelly: Barrier protection, good for prevention
• Panthenol: Skin healing (Bepanthen, etc.)
• Apply thickly to create a protective barrier

How to Apply Ointment

• Make sure skin is completely dry first
• Apply generously
• Apply at every diaper change
• You don't need to remove previous ointment completely

Yeast Infection (Candida)

Signs

• Bright red even in skin folds
• Satellite lesions: Small spots around main rash
• Sharp borders
• Doesn't improve with regular creams

Treatment

• Antifungal cream needed (doctor's prescription)
• Clotrimazole, Nystatin, etc.
• Can use with regular diaper cream

Prevention

• Change often: As soon as wet or soiled
• Dry well: Remove all moisture
• Barrier cream: Apply at every change
• Right size: Too small causes friction
• Breathable diapers
• Diaper-free time: 10 minutes daily

When to See a Doctor

• No improvement after 3-4 days of home care
• Baby has a fever
• Pus or blisters
• Rash spreads beyond diaper area
• Baby is in significant pain
• Suspected yeast infection

Choosing Diapers

• Good absorbency
• Check breathability
• If rash develops, try different brand
• Cloth diapers: Great if changed frequently

Summary

Diaper rash is common and preventable. Frequent changes, thorough drying, and barrier cream help most rashes heal quickly.

If it's severe or lasting, see a doctor for proper treatment.