What Does Diaper Rash Look Like?

Not only is diaper rash on a baby painful and annoying for both parent and child, but it is also one of the most common ailments of infancy and babyhood. Occurring mainly in babies during their first year, diaper rash usually becomes a distant memory by the time a baby reaches 15 months old.

Diaper rash is fairly easy to spot. It is identified by red, bumpy areas where the diaper touches the baby's skin. The area can be described as inflamed or raw, and is undoubtedly very tender. Because of this, wet and dirty diapers--as well as diaper changes--can cause discomfort and fussiness in your baby.

There are numerous causes for diaper rash, the most common being exposure to soiled diapers for an extended period of time. Many times, the first sign of rash can be seen after the baby has been sick and taken antibiotics, since these kill bacteria (both good and bad) in your baby's system. If the baby has had a recent bout of diarrhea (due to sickness, a change in diet or even a change in the mother's diet if she is breastfeeding), the acid can also wreak havoc on his or her bottom.

There are many external causes for diaper rash as well. If your baby has sensitive skin, he or she may have an allergic reaction to certain diapers, wipes, lotion or detergent. The fragrances that are meant to make babies smell like babies may be too much for their sensitive skin to handle. If you are using cloth diapers, the wet cloth covered with plastic pants may hold moisture next to your baby's skin, causing breakdown and, eventually, a rash.

Most of the time, a diaper rash can be treated at home. First and foremost, change your baby's diaper often. Keeping the diaper area as dry as possible will allow the rash to dry up and heal. Instead of using baby wipes, use warm water to wash your baby. Make sure the diaper area is completely dry before diapering again and, if you can, leave the diaper off for as long as possible to allow air to get to the area.

If you believe your baby's diaper rash is due to sensitive skin, consider changing the brand of diapers, wipes, lotions or detergent you use. Use brands that are made especially for sensitive skin. These will usually state that they are "all-natural" or "fragrance-free." Read labels carefully. Just because a product claims to be "hypoallergenic" doesn't necessarily mean it is less irritating for a baby's skin.

Until your baby's diaper rash heals, lay off the baby lotion. Not only do most baby lotions contain perfumes that will further irritate or even burn your baby's bottom, they will also keep the rash moist instead of allowing it to dry and heal. Instead, use creams that are made especially for diaper rash. These contain oil that provides a protective barrier for the skin, keeping moisture away from the rash itself.

If your baby has other symptoms, such as a fever, this could be a sign of other sickness. If the rash gets worse, blisters or spreads, it may mean that the area has become infected. If you notice either of these things, contact your pediatrician for further treatment.

Sources:

Mayo Clinic Staff, "Diaper rash: Symptoms," MayoClinic.com.