Diaper rash in babies: causes, treatment and prevention
Diaper rash is redness and irritation of the skin in the diaper area. It is very common in babies and usually caused by prolonged contact with urine and stool, friction and trapped moisture.
Main causes
- Leaving a wet or soiled diaper on for too long
- Friction from a tight diaper
- Diarrhoea, teething or starting new foods
- Sensitivity to wipes, soaps or fragrances
- Yeast infection when the rash lasts more than a few days
How to treat it at home
- Change the diaper as soon as it is wet or soiled.
- Clean gently with lukewarm water and pat dry; avoid rubbing and fragranced wipes.
- Leave the area uncovered for a few minutes so it can breathe.
- Apply a thick protective layer at every change.
Deepanthen Protective Baby Ointment with 5% dexpanthenol protects the skin and helps soothe redness, while the zinc oxide creams Smart Cream and SudoDerm Cream form a barrier against moisture and irritation.
Prevention
Use Deepanthen Protective Baby Ointment as a daily barrier, choose the right diaper size and change it often, especially at night.
When to see a doctor
Consult a doctor if the rash does not improve within 2–3 days, if blisters, pus or bleeding appear, if the baby has a fever, or if the rash spreads beyond the diaper area.