The best remedies for diaper rash

 The best remedies for diaper rash

Diaper irritation, a frequent problem in childhoodUp

Diaper rash is a frequent but uncomfortable skin rash that occurs in infants and, in rare cases, in adults who are forced to wear diapers. It is vital that parents or caregivers know how to treat these rashes, so that symptoms can be prevented from getting worse.

Diaper rash is characterized by red and painful rashes that develop in warm and humid environments. These rashes can cause the skin to peel and become inflamed and take on an unpleasant appearance. It is estimated that this skin condition represents approximately 20% of all visits to the dermatologist since childhood.

Some infants are more prone to rashes and can develop them frequently, for example when they have associated various other skin conditions, such as eczema . Thus, the risk of developing diaper irritation is even greater in this case.

Causes and risk factors

Diaper rash is a type of contact dermatitis . This occurs when the skin reacts to the touch of an irritating agent. In the diaper area, common irritants are represented by:

- urine;

- feces;

- the diaper itself;

- different soaps or napkins;

- aromas and chemicals from care products or diapers.

In some cases, diaper rash can also occur for other reasons, such as fungal infections or seborrheic dermatitis.

Some infants are more prone than others to develop skin rashes. If the following risk factors apply to a child, preventive protection measures may be necessary:

- changing the diaper less often than necessary; - the presence of diarrheal

stools ; - following antibiotic treatments; - consumption of breast milk while the mother is undergoing antibiotic treatments; - wearing improperly fastened diapers; - consumption of new foods, especially acidic ones, such as citrus fruits ; - the existence of other underlying skin conditions, such as eczema.

Means

Prevention and treatment of diaper rash can be done by using the following methods:

Frequent changing of diapers

When a child has a rash of this type, parents and caregivers must be more careful than usual when changing diapers. Thus, it is necessary to change diapers more often than usual.

Allowing your child to remain in a wet or dirty diaper when they have a rash can make the symptoms worse.

Changing the type of diaper or laundry detergent

If a child develops diaper rash , the skin may be sensitive to a certain product. For example, a certain brand of diapers could contain a substance that triggers the rash. Additionally, if a person uses cloth diapers , the type of laundry detergent they use could be responsible for existing rashes.

Eliminating chemicals and perfumed products can help reduce or disappear persistent or recurring rashes.

Allowing breathing in the affected area

When a child has diaper irritation , it is indicated to leave the child in question without diapers for a certain period. Thus, the affected area will dry much more easily and will have a greater healing potential.

Children who have diaper rash should only wear clothes made of light and natural materials. Thus, tight clothing made of synthetic or rubber materials should be avoided. It is recommended to use 100% cotton clothes , this material helps to keep skin lesions dry. Cotton also allows the skin to breathe and encourages healing.

Placing the diaper properly

Diapers that are too tight can aggravate diaper rash even more. Parents and people who take care of children must check if the diapers fit perfectly and if they are the size of the child. It must be taken into account that the child's development is accelerated, and sizes can change quite quickly.

The use of creams and ointments

There are many protective creams and ointments that calm the skin . These are available in pharmacies, and the doctor and pharmacist can offer the best advice and recommendations regarding their indications.

Avoiding wet wipes

Although it is essential that the diaper area is kept clean permanently, wet wipes for babies can irritate it even more. Thus, the hygiene of the respective area must be carried out gently with soap and water. Preferably, the soaps used must be without added perfumes.

Elimination of new foods

Introducing new foods into the diet is usually beneficial. However, certain acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, can cause your little one's urine and feces to become particularly acidic and irritating.

When it is desired to introduce new food into the child's diet, it is recommended to do this slowly and in small quantities. The child must be permanently monitored, so that measures can be taken from the early stages of complications. If they appear, acidic foods must be completely eliminated from the child's diet until the irritation has disappeared.

Use of perfume-free soaps and detergents

Various skin irritants, including fragrances in soaps and detergents, are responsible for many cases of diaper rash. Laundry detergents, soaps and creams for babies should be chosen so that they contain as many natural and fragrance-free ingredients as possible.

Avoiding excessive washing of the affected area

The irritated area must be kept dry and clean, especially when it comes to diaper irritation . Thus, washing must be done gently, not excessively and harshly. Rubbing the affected area can damage the sensitive skin and worsen the irritation.

Making oatmeal baths

Research shows that colloidal oatmeal can reduce inflammation and irritation caused by various skin conditions . Also, oatmeal baths can be beneficial to reduce the pain and itching caused by diaper rash.

Visit to the doctor

Most cases of diaper rash heal when proper care takes place and triggers are eliminated. In some cases, however, a visit to the doctor is necessary. The doctor must evaluate the child and his skin lesions , especially when they are present:

- fever;

- flictene;

- rashes that do not heal;

- nodular formations;

- pustules;

- bleeding. 

While diaper rash can involve pain and itching , there are many ways in which this condition can be prevented. Following them helps not only to prevent irritation, but also to heal it. see more