Those little baby tushies. They’re so adorable, aren’t they? Dimpled and sweet… but there’s nothing cute about getting red and raw from the dreaded diaper rash. Even the most easy-going baby will fuss, cry, and try to torpedo off the changing table when it’s time to change their diaper.
Most babies will develop a rash in the diaper area at some point in their infancy. It’s usually caused excessive wetness and friction. Feces, urine, fragrances, wipes, and infections with bacteria or yeast are often culprits.
Rashes can be avoided by changing diapers frequently. The more contact the skin has with urine and feces, the more irritated it becomes. Exposing the skin to air helps to keep it dry, and gentle cleansing with cotton balls dipped in warm water, or fragrance free wipes for sensitive skin can be used. Protective creams like Desitin, Vaseline, and A&D ointment protect the skin barrier and help to heal the skin. Pediatricians and dermatologists may recommend oral or topical antibiotics if there is a bacterial infection. Yeast infections can be treated with prescription topical anti-yeast creams. Occasionally, a mild cortisone cream is recommended for severe inflammation, but these must be used under physician’s supervision. When the diaper occludes/covers the skin, the effects of the cortisone cream are increased. The skin in that area is already very sensitive, and too much cortisone can cause problems.
When is a diaper rash not a diaper rash? Other conditions, such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, nutritional deficiencies including zinc, and other more rare conditions can present in the diaper area. Any rash not responding to treatment needs to be evaluated by a pediatrician or dermatologist.
We love our babies’ bottoms. Let’s keep them dry, clean, and rash free!
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