Nappy Rash

Babies' bottoms are one of the cutest things in the world. This seems to make it all the worse when they are red and raw with nappy rash. Nappy Rash (Diaper or Napkin Rash) happens when urine or faeces irritate your baby's skin. Bacteria cause urine to break down, forming ammonia (an alkali) which burns the skin, causing the red rash.

Prevention is better than cure;

The most important thing to do is change your baby's nappy whenever it is wet or dirty.
If you use disposables, choose good quality, breathable ones.
When you change the nappy, clean baby using just plain water and cotton wool or cotton reusable cloths. If you must use baby wipes or lotions make sure they are unperfumed or designed for sensitive skin. But they really are unnecessary, expensive and may be what is causing the nappy rash!
Allow your baby a little time without a nappy on, letting air to the skin is a big help in preventing nappy rash.

If your baby has nappy rash;

Wash the red area gently and carefully at every nappy change.
Dry gently and cover the affected area with a nappy rash cream. Zinc and Castor Oil is the traditional favourite. I have found Sudocrem to be brilliant. It contains lavender oil which is believed to be healing for the skin.
You can add a layer of cream as a preventative measure if your baby is prone to nappy rash.
If the rash does not start to improve within 24 hours, has white or red pimples on it or if your baby has a temperature, you should go to your GP in case it has become infected.
Keep bathwater cool, don't use perfumed baby bath and try not to let your baby scratch if the rash is itchy (Not easy I know!)
NEVER, ever, use a steroid cream in the nappy area, even if your child has been prescribed it for eczema. The warm, moist atmosphere of a nappy will greatly increase the absorption of the steroid meaning high levels could get into your baby's blood stream.

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