A common but frustrating problem baby's skin is diaper rash. Diaper dermatitis is a skin irritation caused by irritants or moisture excessive in the diaper area. Diaper dermatitis is especially common when the baby starts eating solid foods, teething, or is taking antibiotics.
A mild case of diaper rash is just a rash, red, while severe cases may actually include blisters, bleeding and open wounds. There are several steps you can take to prevent diaper rash or to treat a mild case:
~ To Change diapers frequently – is important to keep baby dry and clean. Cloth diapers are changed more often than disposables. Remove dirty diapers immediately.
~ Avoid using baby wipes, especially those with strong perfumes and alcohol. Instead, use warm water and a washcloth to clean the diaper area. Pat dry or let it dry completely before putting on another diaper.
~ If using cloth diapers, wash with a mild detergent – again, no perfume or bleach. If Disposable using, try changing brands persistent eruptions.
~ Apply a thin layer of diaper rash ointment or petroleum jelly on the bottom of dry baby during diaper changes and after bathing. If the baby is particularly sensitive and prone to diaper rash, you may want to acquire habit of doing this on all diaper changes to prevent further outbreaks.
~ Allow baby to go diaperless whenever possible. The fresh air will remain Dry the baby's bottom and if you are recovering from a case of diaper rash, it feels great for his delicate skin. A few minutes of fresh air can difference.
~ If the rash does not disappear in a few days if there is bleeding, blisters or open sores, or rash is mainly in the folds baby's skin, consult your pediatrician. The rash may actually be a yeast infection, or may be severe enough to require medication preion to help the healing process.
Few babies are lucky enough to avoid this condition completely uncomfortable during the days of his diaper. However, keep baby's bottom clean and dry, and away from known irritants, can reduce the chances and severity of the outbreak.
Dawn Lloyd is the mom to three young children and owner/editor of several family websites including BabyUniversity.com, a pregnancy and parenting community, BabyShopsOnline, a directory of pregnancy and baby online retailers, and PersonalFitnessZone.com, a weight loss and fitness community.
Zachary Getting a Bath with the Dishes in the Kitchen Sink