Diaper rash is a form of skin irritation found in babies’ near their diaper areas and bottoms, causing discomfort and pain if left untreated or ignored. It occurs in the form of red patches and inflamed skin. In this write up we deep dive into the causes and symptoms of this condition and find out the easy ways to treat and prevent diaper rash to keep your baby comfortable and healthy.

Diaper rash causes:

Diaper rash usually occurs when babies:

• Suffer from diarrhoea or frequent stools that are left in the diapers overnight.
• React to antibiotics or their mothers taking antibiotics.
• Are not kept clean and dry. 

However, there could be several other reasons that might be responsible for Diaper Rashes in babies and infants

Chafing or rubbing:

Tight-fitting diapers or clothing that rub against the skin often leads to rashes and redness, caused by the friction. A tight and snug fitting diaper that rubs against your baby’s skin causes rashes. Diaper rash develops more often when the baby begins crawling as there are more chances of friction. While on the move, wet diapers tend to rub against the skin even more and often lead to chafing and rashes. You need to be vigilant when your baby begins movement on the floor.

Excessive moisture

The tender skin of babies can develop a rash if wet or soiled diapers are left on too long. 

Skin infection

Baby skin is extremely sensitive. Therefore, if you are not careful enough, there is a risk of yeast infection, bacterial infestation and other complications leading to diaper rashes. Also, babies who have skin conditions like dermatitis, may be more prone to getting diaper rashes. 

Allergies

Diaper rashes may also be caused by an adverse reaction to the diaper material. That is why it is vital to choose high quality, disposable diapers that are gentle on the skin and can prevent such allergies. 

Diaper rash symptoms

As a parent, you can identify a diaper rash by looking at these symptoms & signs. 

• Inflammation, tenderness or itching in the buttocks, thighs and genitals
• A slight redness in the diaper area that is warm to touch
• Discomfort, crankiness or crying during diaper changes
• Sores/Blisters in your baby's diaper area

Diaper rash treatment and prevention:

Minimising friction using diaper rash gel:

A high quality diaper rash gel is a great way to form a barrier between the skin and the diaper. Opt for a gel that is non- greasy and promises long hours of protection. It is one of the best preventative diaper rash solutions made from skin-friendly silicone elastomers. Such a gel is also moisture-repellent, thereby covering some of the most pressing causes of diaper rash. 

Unlike all other diaper rash creams which rub off easily on your baby’s diaper, SkinEasi Diaper Rash Gel with #UniqueProtectiveLayerTechnology creates a robust protective layer which does not get rubbed off by your baby’s constant movement. Made from skin-friendly silicone elastomers, the Unique Protective Layer prevents urine and faecal matter from touching your baby’s skin, providing long hours of protection against diaper rashes and more!

If your baby gets a diaper rash, it is important to keep the area as clean and dry as possible. Change wet or soiled diapers right away. This helps cut down how much moisture is on the skin. Additionally, the following tips will help with diaper rash treatment.

Practicing hygiene to the letter

Keeping clean is among the top diaper rash solutions. You should rinse your baby's bottom with warm water as part of each diaper change. Always use gentle wipes and mild soaps meant for baby skin and never rub for drying. Always pat the skin gently, let it air dry and then put on a new diaper. 

Closely monitoring baby’s health when introducing diet changes

Carefully observe any changes in your baby’s skin and digestion when introducing new foods as they may lead to indigestion and as a result, frequent stools and nausea. In such a case, it becomes necessary to change the diapers more frequently. 

Allowing downtime

It is true that you would not want the baby to soil the sheets or its clothes. However, it is essential to let the skin go diaper-free for a few hours every day. This allows their skin to breathe and remain dry without being in contact with any sort of fabric, facilitating self-healing. 

Afterword

You should know that a diaper rash might take several days to improve, depending on its severity and various related factors. If you are not careful enough, a rash may keep returning. If the condition persists despite all treatments and preventative care, it is better to see your pediatrician who may refer you to a dermatologist specializing in baby skincare. 

It is also essential to remember that irrespective of the type of diaper you use, changing it frequently is the key to keeping the skin clean and healthy. Using a Diaper Rash cream or a gel with every Diaper change can prevent the problem to a large extent and ensure a happy and smiling baby!