Types of Diaper Rash: Tips & Home Remedies To Treat Nappy Rash Naturally

The moment we hold our heaven-sent tiny packet in our hands, our joys know no bounds. But with that immense happiness, there comes an indefinite set of responsibilities and duties, in terms of their health and overall care. One of them that require a lot of care is your baby’s bum. Sounds funny? Well, your baby’s skin is too delicate and soft, and your baby’s bum is one area that needs frequent cleaning and drying, because if it stays wet for long it may lead to a diaper rash.

So if your baby is four to fifteen months old and your baby’s bum looks annoyed and exhibits some redness or irritation, it can be a diaper rash. On a guilt trip already??? Relax. At this age, babies are bound to have diaper rash and there is nothing you did wrong. Diaper rash is very common and every new or experienced parent can be seen struggling with the same for their baby.

Diaper rashes might occur suddenly and make your teeny-weeny unhappy in turn making you miserable. Sometimes the redness goes away naturally or with preventive care but sometimes it won’t go away without treatment. Reading this makes you feel uneasy? We have you covered. Keep scrolling and your blues are bound to vanish.

What is a Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash or Nappy rash is a skin complaint that causes itchiness, irritation and inflammation, causing a baby's skin to become sore, red, scaly, and tender. Such a condition is mostly caused due to soiled diaper left unattended for a longer duration. Abrasion caused from the diaper, certain brands soaps, detergents, baby wipes, baby lotions, fabric softeners and fragrances used on sensitive skin can be other reasons for diaper rash. Diaper rash, which when overlooked, can cause dermatitis. Thus, to avoid any kind of such untoward discomfort, it is best to keep your baby’s skin clean and dry.

Why Is My Baby Getting Diaper Rash? (Causes Of Diaper Rash)

Babies might develop diaper rash for various reasons. Following are some common causes of diaper rash.

Simple Irritation

The wetness caused due to contact with pee and poo in the nappy is one of the major reasons behind nappy rash. Newborn babies are prone to urinating frequently and even experience recurrent loose bowel movements. Therefore, using a diaper for prolonged durations can lead to diaper rash, no matter how absorbent the nappy is. Even the slightest moisture can harm the delicate new skin of a baby. As such, a baby left in a dirty nappy for a long time is more likely to develop nappy rash. If the diaper area is red, but the folds of the skin are not red, your baby has got diaper rash due to simple irritation.

Yeast Infection

Moist diaper area is the best friend of yeast. Thus, any dirty diaper that has not been changed for a long time, can lead to bright red rash, resulting in small red pimples branching out from the border of the rash area. A yeast infection can be distinguished from simple irritation by noticing the folds of the baby’s skin. If you notice redness in the folds and creases of your baby’s skin, it is yeast infection.

Diarrhea

Babies who are suffering from a bout of diarrhea are also likely to develop nappy rash. Reason being, the potty spreads to different areas of the nappy and is wetter than normal potty. This is most common in older babies who are sick and on antibiotic medications, as they can get diarrhea, thereby causing diaper rash.

New Foods

When babies are introduced to solid food or a new food, they are expected to get diaper rash. Any food introduced to the digestive system of a baby changes the composition of stool, resulting in an increase in the baby’s bowel movements. Besides, if you are breastfeeding, your baby can react to any different food you have eaten, which can become visible in the form of a diaper rash.

Friction & Rubbing

Tight-fitting diapers chafe against the skin of the baby frequently, which can also cause diaper rash. This can worsen the diaper rash in case the skin is wet. Even a baby who is crawling or walking can complain of diaper rash due to the constant abrasion of nappy rubbing against the delicate skin.

Irritating Chemicals

The skin at your baby’s bottom is extremely delicate and soft. Any out-of-the-ordinary product coming in contact with the skin can also react, thereby causing nappy rash. Sometimes products like certain brands of soaps, detergents, baby wipes, baby lotions, fabric softeners and fragrances, contain chemicals that can be irksome for the baby’s skin. Hence, always consult your paediatrician or a pharmacist before buying baby products.

Zinc Deficiency

Babies born prematurely commonly suffer from zinc deficiency. This deficiency is known for causing rashes in the nappy area. With such a deficiency, rashes can appear even around the mouth and on hands.

Underlying Conditions

Baby nappy rash can also occur due to various underlying conditions, such as eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. In spite of practicing good hygiene and regular change of nappies, nappy rash that continues to persist is an indication of eczema. It is identified by dry and sore skin and can even spread to other areas of the skin, apart from the nappy area.

Seborrheic dermatitis occurs when a baby is between two weeks and six months of age. It causes the skin to turn red and scaly, and can occur on the nappy area, scalp, armpits, and neck. Fortunately, seborrheic dermatitis lasts for few weeks and does not recur. Though a rare condition in babies, psoriasis can occur in babies also, around the nappy area. It is characterized by rashes with red scales and defined borders.

Can Certain Food Cause Diaper Rash?

The answer to that is YES. There sure can be certain food items that may wreak havoc on that tender bum of your little one. The diet of your teeny-weeny can cause inflammation and itching. So while you plan your baby’s meals, make sure that you try to avoid acidic foods like tomato-based sauces and citrus foods that might create sore, red ring around the anus.

Try avoiding foods that can be difficult on your little one’s digestive system and are very acidic in nature. This includes lemons, grapefruits, oranges, or limes. Tomato based sauces and tomatoes are not very friendly and can aggravate the symptoms of diaper rash. Strawberries, pineapples and other tart fruits (not all tropical fruits) should be avoided.

If you are breastfeeding your bundle of joy, it is advisable that you should avoid spicy or hot foods, soy, coffee, eggs and wheat, as food’s in mamas diet can also cause diaper rash in babies. Consider papaya or mango instead.

What Are The Foods That Are Good For Diaper Rash?

If your baby is struggling with a diaper rash, there are certain foods that are easy to digest and might help your baby. These include starchy foods like potatoes and rice, soft-boiled eggs, yogurt with probiatics, lentils, bread or toast, beans, oats, whole grains, quinoa.

Can Certain Food Cause Diaper Rash?

The answer to that is YES. There sure can be certain food items that may wreak havoc on that tender bum of your little one. The diet of your teeny-weeny can cause inflammation and itching. So while you plan your baby’s meals, make sure that you try to avoid acidic foods like tomato-based sauces and citrus foods that might create sore, red ring around the anus.

Try avoiding foods that can be difficult on your little one’s digestive system and are very acidic in nature. This includes lemons, grapefruits, oranges, or limes. Tomato based sauces and tomatoes are not very friendly and can aggravate the symptoms of diaper rash. Strawberries, pineapples and other tart fruits (not all tropical fruits) should be avoided.

If you are breastfeeding your bundle of joy, it is advisable that you should avoid spicy or hot foods, soy, coffee, eggs and wheat, as food’s in mamas diet can also cause diaper rash in babies. Consider papaya or mango instead.

What Are The Foods That Are Good For Diaper Rash?

If your baby is struggling with a diaper rash, there are certain foods that are easy to digest and might help your baby. These include starchy foods like potatoes and rice, soft-boiled eggs, yogurt with probiatics, lentils, bread or toast, beans, oats, whole grains, quinoa.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap)

Seborrheic dermatitis is deep red rash that often has yellowish scales and is rough and raised. Appearing as a cradle cap on the scalp, it can sometimes occur in the diaper region and then spread upwards. Overactive oil glands in the skin usually lead to Seborrheic dermatitis.

Impetigo

Impetigo appears as blisters or pus filled pimples or like a yellow-brown crusty patch which is surrounded by redness. Affected areas can be lower abdomen, buttocks, anus, thighs, umbilical cord, and then it might spread to other parts of the body. This rash is caused by bacteria streptococci or staphylococci.

Intertrigo

This type of rash appears as a reddened area, and is generally caused by skin rubbing against skin. Signs of intertrigo can be usually observed in the folds between the thighs and abdomen and sometimes in the armpits.

Tidemark Dermatitis

Tidemark dermatitis is a type of diaper rash and involves an abrasion caused due to bindings or edges of a diaper rubbing against the skin.

Allergic Reaction

One of the less common causes of diaper rash is allergic reactions or skin sensitivity to the diaper itself. Signs of this kind of allergic reactions include itchy red, raised, scaly skin in the diaper area. Area of skin that comes in contact with dyes on the diaper can become sensitive and develop an allergic reaction.

Scabies

This type of rash is not generally caused by diaper but can affect the diaper areas. Scabies is characterized by intensely itchy skin condition caused by mites that have burrowed under the skin. The general symptoms of scabies begin suddenly and spread to a wide area including red, raised, itchy areas on the abdomen, web spaces of the hands and feet, armpits, and genitals.

Psoriasis

It is a type of skin rash that causes reddened and silver scaly patches of skin. However, the silver scales may be absent in the diaper.

Treatment for Diaper Rash (How to get of diaper rash?)

Diaper Free Time

One of the most effective ways of treating a diaper rash is by limiting its use on baby’s skin altogether. This way its urine and faeces will be in least contact with the baby’s skin. A washable or waterproof changing mat can be used underneath the child while the diapers are not on. The diaper free gap in between can be of 2-3 hours and immediately after bowel movement.

Disposable Diapers

Diaper rashes occur when the baby’s skin comes in contact with the faeces and urine for too long a period. This happens if the baby hasn’t been changed for a while or the diaper that has been used is not doing its job. Therefore, it’s recommended that disposable diapers that are highly absorbent yet allow the skin of the baby to breathe should be opted for.

Applying tropical creams

There are a variety of skin ointments and creams (containing petroleum jelly and zinc oxide) that are available in the market for the treatment of diaper rashes. These products need to be long lasting and should be applied directly over the infected area. Ointments or pastes that contain preservatives and fragrances need to be avoided because they can worsen the condition. Before heading with this, it is advised to check with your paediatrician about the one that works best for your bundle of joy.

What are the natural ways to treat diaper rash? (What are the fastest home remedies to treat a diaper rash?)

Warm Water Cleaning and Air Time

Sometimes, simple cleaning with a soft cloth dipped in warm water works wonders on the soft skin of the baby, as it tends to be less irritating when compared to medicinal ointments. The rash can also be taken care of by merely letting the infected skin to breathe in open air. This means a diaper free time. Baths in warm water twice a day is also known to cure the diaper rashes.

Talcum and Corn Starch

Powders are a good way to treat the diaper rashes. The talcum and corn starch content present in them are known to very effective in reducing the moisture and friction on the skin of the baby. They create a barrier for the rash by keeping the affected area dry, helping the rash to heal faster.

Oils

Sesame oil, olive oil mixed in warm water, or milk; all three are good options to massage, soothe, and moisturize the rash infected area on the baby’s skin. Coconut oil can also aid in reducing diaper rash.

Oatmeal Bath

Mixing oatmeal in warm bath water for the baby is another effective home remedy that’ll help in treatment and prevention of diaper rash.

Chamomile and Honey Spray

Take one teaspoon of raw honey and two cups of chamomile tea. Dissolve them together and transfer them in a spray bottle. You can spray it directly onto your little one’s bum and let it dry while the munckin enjoys some play-time.

Breastmilk

All breastfeeding mamas are well versed with the healing benefits of breast milk. Another one is right here. Dabbing a little breastmilk on diaper rash can help in soothing the nappy rash of your bundle of joy as breast milk is full of antiseptic and healing properties, is anti-inflammatory and serves as a natural moisturizer.

Aloe Vera

With super soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera is recommended to soothe diaper rash naturally. Choose aloe vera juice not get or pure form of aloe, maybe if you can get it directly from the plant, unprocessed aloe vera and apply it on your baby’s angry bum.

Plain Yogurt

Heard of good bacteria and probiotics? Plain yogurt has them both and serves in re-establishing the healing mechanism of the skin. The cool and smooth texture helps in soothing your baby’s bum irritation.  It is advisable to use unsweetened, plain yogurt without any added sugar, as sugar can increase the rash irritation.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A natural way to treat a diaper rash caused by yeast infection or fungal is with apple cider vinegar. It helps in preventing the growth of yeast and also kills the bacteria that aggravate the rash. If you want to use this remedy then mix one part of apple cider vinegar to three parts of water. Use your fingers or a soft cloth to dab this mixture on the diaper rash. As apple cider vinegar can dry the skin, we advise you to use it only on the infected area and use coconut oil to maintain the moisture of the skin thereafter.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is regarded as a great natural remedy for rash treatment as it is alkalizing. If you add it in your baby’s bath it will not only help in bringing down the redness but also aid in reliving the pain. But make sure you apply moisturizer or coconut oil to maintain moisture after pat drying it properly.

Diaper Rash Prevention Tips Or Natural Ways To Soothe Diaper Rash

1. Using disposable diapers and changing them as frequently as possible will minimize the skin’s contact with the excrements, thereby preventing occurrence of rashes. When on, keep them clean and dry.
2. Use diapers that are not too tight and allow baby’s skin to breathe. Provide diaper free periods for the baby immediately after it has been cleaned.
3. Warm water and soft cloth are sufficient to clean baby’s bums. Avoid the use of chemical based shampoos or soaps. If need be, use baby shampoos and soaps that are mild.
4. Avoid baby wipes or soaps that have alcohol content in them or are loaded with fragrance. Baby’s skin is sensitive and can easily develop a rash if it comes in contact with them.
5. After the baby’s been given a bath or has been cleaned with water, it’s recommended that the baby bums should be pat-dried with a towel instead of scrubbing as it can cause skin irritation that can lead to a rash.

When to reach a doctor for diaper rash?

Diaper rash generally do go away or reduce after few days of taken proper care home care. However, you should immediately contact your doctor or paediatrician if –

• You find the skin to be very itchy, bleeding or oozing.
• If while trying to treat it with home/natural remedies it has got worse.
• If your baby has fever along with the nappy rash.
• If you find that your baby is in pain with each bowel movement.
• If the baby is in pain due to the diaper rash.
• If you see that the nappy rash has spread beyond the diaper area.
• If you find blisters, pimples or pustules.

In few cases the baby’s diaper rash may require medical care. If the rash turns into an infection, the baby should be taken to the paediatrician who after examining may prescribe antibiotics in the form of ointments or oral medication.

Conclusion

Babies pee and poop quite frequently. Nothing much can be done about it, except for the routine to remove, clean, change, and repeat all over again. Parents sure do work hard in staying true to this process as much as possible but the problem known as diaper rash does pop up without them having a clue about its emergence.

We know mamas and daddies that you do not wish to see angry red bums. However, diaper rashes are inescapable events that might occur at some point of time, especially during the first year of your child. All you can do is try these natural and home remedies to prevent and frequently bypass these unpleasant occurrences. Follow a simple skincare routine and bid adieu to nappy rash! After all, a little caution would go a long way!