Nappy rash
Did you know that 1 in 3 babies and toddlers have nappy rash at any one time? There are lots of different causes of nappy rash as the skin on their little bums is so delicate. Nappy rash can be caused by their skin being in contact with wee or poo for too long, from friction from their nappy rubbing against them, from not having their bums cleaned and dried properly, reactions to soaps or wipes or from them taking medication like antibiotics.
Nappy rash presents as anything from little red patches, spots, pimples, blisters to their whole bottom being red. It can also feel hot to touch. Mild nappy rash is unlikely to cause baby too much discomfort, but they may start to become distressed and irritable if the rash is more severe.
Preventing nappy rash from starting is best, but even with the best will in the world, it is likely that baby will experience some form of nappy rash at some point. To help prevent nappy rash and to help remedy it, here are some simple tips:
- Change wet/dirty nappies as soon as you can
- Clean their bottoms gently but thoroughly
- Use water and cotton wool or fragrance- and alcohol-free wipes
- Pat their bums dry instead of rubbing
- Avoid using soaps, bubble bath and lotions
- If the rash isn’t causing your baby discomfort, apply a thin layer of a barrier cream each time you change their nappy
- Give them lots of nappy-free time to let fresh air circulate around their little bots. Lots of parents avoid this as it can be messy but check out the bumbino which makes nappy-free time much easier by absorbing and containing little accidents whilst still allowing the air to get to their delicate skin.
Nappy rash normally goes away after about 3 days if you follow the above tips. But if it is causing baby a lot of discomfort and is persisting, or if they develop a bright red, moist rash with white or red pimples, or pus-filled blisters, they may have an infection. In this case, you should speak to your health visitor, GP or pharmacist for advice. Remember it’s normal for baby to develop skin rashes. But if it’s more than a minor irritation and if in doubt, always ask for advice.
