Diaper rashes are very common in babies’ early years, not to mention the irritation and discomfort to the young souls.
As a parent, it could be alarming and quite distressing to witness your baby go through it, especially when you are clueless about why it occurs or what to do about it.
Don’t panic because this is a common and normal problem. There are Home Remedies for Diaper Rash That Really help.
So What Exactly Is Diaper Rash?
When the skin underneath the diaper area around the baby’s bum and genitals become red and tender, it is a diaper rash.
It could appear splotchy or scaly and, in some cases, spread to other areas of the body.
No two babies are the same, and while some get severe diaper rashes more frequently, some may hardly ever get it depending on the sensitivity of their skin.
But in most cases, the most important cause for an outbreak of rash is when the delicate skin under the area comes into contact with urine or stools for long periods at a time.
Can Diaper Rash Be Prevented?
Definitely, yes. Diaper rashes can be prevented by keeping the area clean and dry, which can be achieved by doing the following things:
Diaper Free Times
We know this is risky when it comes to accidents, but it is pivotal to let the skin breathe.
From time-to-time give your baby diaper-free times in-between changes. Letting a rash air dry might also help heal it faster.
Frequent Diaper Changes
Changing the diaper timely is the easiest way to prevent rashes from occurring.
The diaper could only be a little wet or not used at all but never use a diaper for more than 2-3 hours when the baby is awake and, in case of a sleeping baby, change a soiled diaper immediately after they wake.
Well-Fitted Diapers
Using diapers that fit well. Ill-fitting diapers that are either too tight or too loose could be part of the problem.
Baby-Friendly Products
Using of mild, baby-sensitive products curated specially for them.
Always try out a new product in a small sample area before usage.
Be consistent, and if you suddenly see rashes appearing, it could be the new product.
Also, washcloths soaked in warm water is a preferable alternative to using wipes.
Cloth Diapers
These are definitely eco-friendly and better for baby’s skin.
In the case of cloth diapers, be sure the diaper is completely dry and clean before use.
The diaper has to be washed and rinsed thoroughly to avoid irritation due to detergents.
What are some excellent home remedies for diaper rash that actually work?
There are countless creams and ointments that claim to help soothe and prevent diaper rashes, but there’s nothing quite like a good, old, and natural home remedy.
If you are a busy individual and working on home remedies is an issue then you can definitely opt for diaper rash creams like Sebamed Diaper Rash Cream & Himalaya diaper rash cream.
They are completely natural, have zero chemicals in them and have given excellent results.
For one, we can at least be confident about what exactly goes on those delicate bottoms by using a reputed diaper rash cream.
Following Are Home Remedies For Diaper Rash:
Coconut Oil
Don’t be surprised if we tell you coconut oil takes care of just about anything skin related.
That bottle of coconut oil in your pantry is packed with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and is perfect for treating harsh diaper rashes.
Breast Milk
Breast milk is as good for inflammation as it is for ingestion.
It contains fatty acids and immune-boosting antibodies that heal rashes.
Just express a few drops and apply it to the rash outbreak and let dry naturally before fastening the diaper on.
Petroleum Jelly
Dabbing the area with petroleum jelly helps with the diaper rash by acting as a layer between the skin on the baby’s bum and the surface of the diaper and hence keeping rash-causing moisture away.
Considered as a barrier ointment, this is a prime ingredient that can be found on most over the counter diaper rash creams.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a magical herb with natural skin healing properties.
Tannins, a natural compound present in witch hazel, is an astringent that treats redness and swelling.
It acts as a coolant, and when applied topically to the rash when it is just coming on, you could well stop it right there.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial and can be used to treat diaper rashes and rash related irritation.
The denseness and thickness of the oil can form a protective coating on the skin while mostly keeping moisture from the diaper away.
Aloe Vera
Having this plant grow in your home could bring with it a truckload of goodness for you.
The gel extracted from the leaves on the plant is incredibly soothing for the skin.
It is alkalizing and has anti-inflammatory properties that remove the burning sensation and pain from the diaper rash and help heal faster.
Baking Soda
A good soak in bathwater with diluted baking soda will reduce the redness and soothe.
Baking soda helps greatly in restoring the pH balance of the skin.
Baby’s Diet & Medication
Diet might not be a significant indicator for babies on exclusive breast milk or formula milk diet.
But in the case of older babies and toddlers, food allergies could also be a cause for diaper rash.
Identifying allergens and removing them and, in case of persistent heat infection, reigning in on the sugar might help as yeast feeds off refined sugar.
Plain Yoghurt has been great with yeast infections, particularly.
Also, in babies who are on antibiotics for whatever reason, the rash might result from a lack of good bacteria in the digestive system.
Medicines tend to kill the good and harmful bacteria, so supplementing probiotics might help restore the good bacteria.
It is a good idea to consult a physician in those cases.
When To See A Doctor?
Natural remedies are, no doubt, the best. But if your baby’s rash is severe, you might want to use a medicated cream.
And sometimes, these rashes might develop into a more serious bacterial infection, which might require you to see a doctor.
If you see a persistent rash for more than 3-4 days, which incase is getting noticeably worse, make a trip to your pediatrician.
And if there is a skin infection with blisters, pus, or the baby has a fever and is in considerable pain, see your doctor at the earliest.