A blood-curdling scream is what you will likely hear from a little one with a big diaper rash, and it can make a parent feel helpless. Most babies will experience at least one episode of diaper rash, if not more, but with a little knowledge and by following a few easy steps, it can occur less frequently, be less severe or even be avoided.
First, the knowledge … Let's talk poop!
Gross, I know, but it's important — here's why: What you feed your child will directly affect the acidity of what comes out as waste. The more acidic the poop, the more potential it has to irritate your child's delicate skin. In order to avoid diaper rash, be aware of your child's diet.
Let's face it — your angelic newborn baby is a poop-machine! Most newborns normally go 5 to 10 times a day. As your little one grows and her dietary needs change, her poop will become less frequent and more human-looking because it will reflect what she's being fed. Breastfed babies usually have yellowish, seedy (mustard-like) poop, which is close to the skin's neutral pH, making it less irritating to the skin, and therefore less likely to cause a rash. Many babies will suddenly develop diaper rash when they are switched from breast milk to formula, or when formula-fed babies are switched between brands. As your little one grows (usually around 6 months old) and solid foods are introduced, the potential for increased irritation lurks again. Shockingly to a new parent, many foods (spinach, sweet potatoes, carrots — just to name a few) come out of the body much like they did going in! My Mommy Tip: Be prepared for beets … it can be quite jarring to see red poopie! Don't worry — this is normal! It doesn't mean that your baby's body is not absorbing the nutrients it needs; it means that it can potentially cause skin irritation. So stay vigilant about diaper checks, follow your pediatrician's guidelines for introducing new foods, and enjoy the look on your little one's face when he tries something new for his next meal!
Now, the steps:
Change frequently and promptly. The less contact time a soiled diaper has with the skin, the less likely irritation will occur. Here's an added bonus for exhausted, bleary-eyed new parents changing the umpteenth diaper of the day: There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Potty training may be easier for your little one if he is not used to being in a dirty diaper.
Use alcohol-free wipes. Check the label of your wipes, and make sure that they do not contain alcohol, which can be very drying to tender skin, removing skin's natural protective ability against wetness and bacteria.
Check diapers for a proper fit. Diapers (cloth as well as disposable) that are too loose or too snug can cause rubbing and irritation to tender skin. Once the skin is broken or irritated, bacteria and ammonia from urine and feces can cause infection and further irritation.
Use a barrier. A petroleum-based product (Vaseline, A&D Ointment) is a great way to protect the skin with each diaper change. Apply it to clean, dry skin. Many store brands are fine to use, and are often a less expensive alternative. Many stores and wholesale clubs sell larger tubs, which are more economical for home use, but are often messy. My Mommy Tip: Designate a clean, disposable plastic spoon (check the edges and be sure it is smooth enough) to use as an applicator with these large tubs. It enables you to keep your hands relatively mess-free. You can wipe it clean on the diaper and store it next to the jar, using a rubber band for repeated use.
Treat at the first sign of redness. Don't wait for the rash to spread (and it will, quickly!)
Treatment of Diaper Rash
Clean the area. Use alcohol-free, unscented wipes (often labeled "For Newborns" or "For Sensitive Skin"), which actually have a pH closer to the skin than a wet paper towel, and are oftentimes softer to the touch. When bathing your little one, use tepid water (93 to 95 degrees on a bath thermometer) which allows a comfortable soak for baby. Water that is too warm or chilly can aggravate the irritation. Use an oatmeal bath soak containing colloidal oatmeal (I like Aveeno) to soothe the skin and moisturize it as well. Be sure to rinse the skin after bathing.
Dry the area. Pat the skin dry and avoid rubbing with the towel — to avoid further irritation. If possible, let your little one sit wrapped loosely in a dry towel for five minutes or so before diapering, to allow some air exposure and to further ensure that the area is completely dry.
Use a zinc-based product. Creams containing zinc oxide (Balmex, Desitin, A&D Medicated) are a great over-the-counter treatment for diaper rash. Zinc oxide forms a seal over denuded skin, clinging to it and protecting it from further contact with urine and feces. Although they can be used as preventatives, these products are not as easy to spread and are usually more expensive than the petroleum-based ointments — which is why I recommend reserving their use for treatment. My Mommy Tip: Apply these products using the fourth finger (the "ring finger") of your hand — it uses less pressure, but still allows product application where needed.
Check and change diapers often. Easier said than done, when your little one has diaper rash. My Mommy Tip: Stash a favorite toy, rattle or book with your diaper supplies. Designating one toy for changes may keep your little one distracted long enough to get the job done.
Know when to call your child's health care provider. A rash that does not get better within 48 hours or gets progressively worse (with blisters or pustules appearing) warrants a call to your child's doctor. Depending on the cause and severity, a prescription may be issued for an antifungal preparation, a steroid cream or a yeast-fighting ointment
Diaper rash, although oftentimes not serious, can be extremely uncomfortable for a little one. Sitting, standing, crawling, cruising, walking or even just kicking those little legs in search of those fascinating and mysterious feet can be excruciating. A bit of prevention and early intervention can keep baby happy and comfortable (and Mommy and Daddy, too!)
