How to Treat and Prevent Diaper Rash

Diaper rash can be a hard enemy for a new parent to fight. There are so many options out there that it is easy to become confused and not know what to try next. There are old wive's tales, misinformation, out of date information, and the few gems of truth hidden in between. Here is a quick run down of methods you can use to treat and prevent your baby's diaper rash.

Diaper rash ointment is always a safe bet to go with. There are many kinds on the market today, but the best seem to consist of zinc oxide and other skin nourishing ingredients such as aloe and vitamin e. Put a thin layer on at every diaper change in spots that are prone to being exposed to wetness. The ointment not only helps treat and prevent diaper rash but it helps seal out wetness as well. If it is not working, you may also try an ointment with boric acid, which has often been found to be effective in situations where zinc oxide seems to fail.

If diaper rash ointment is not working, you can step it up a notch by dusting off your baby's bottom with some baby powder. While breathing issues were a concern with talc baby powder, most powders now are made with cornstarch. It is still best to check the label to make sure it's cornstarch. It's also good to try to avoid getting it in baby's face. Dust it where ever baby gets wet, then cover it with a thin layer of diaper rash ointment. The powder dries your baby's skin off, and the ointment protects it from any further wetness.

If this still is not working, the next option is to start giving your baby what I affectionately refer to as "naked time". Place your baby on a blanket or waterproof pad without any clothes or a diaper after bath time. Let your baby roam free until completely dry - usually around 15 minutes to an hour. Then put some powder on his or her bottom and cover it with a thin layer of diaper rash ointment. The fresh air helps dry out and heal your baby's rash.

If you are still having problems with diaper rash, the last thing you can do is switch your baby over to cloth diapers. These allow your baby's skin to breath at all times, helping to fight wetness and heal diaper rash. If this still does not work, it would then be best to contact your pediatrician, who will more than likely prescribe something stronger than what you can find over the counter.

I hope this quick little guide has helped cleared up some of the initial confusion a parent may feel when faced with the many diaper rash treatment options. I know it would have really helped me to have a guide like this when I was starting out. Hopefully you will take away some valuable information from this and your baby's bottom will be rash free from now on!