What to Do If Your Baby Has Diaper Rash

Properly identify that your baby does indeed have diaper rash before you begin treatment. Diaper rash presents as swollen red skin in the genital area. It can even extend to the thighs. The diaper rash may also look like red blotches or chafed skin.

Diaper rash can occur for several different reasons. My daughter had a bad bout of diaper rash after she was on a round of antibiotics. Other causes include being wet too long or having a slight allergic reaction to the compounds in the diaper or to new foods. Whatever the cause, all parents can utilize the same treatment methods.

Begin each diaper change by rinsing your baby's bottom with a soft wet cloth. Baby Center recommends using a cotton ball to rinse the genital area if the diaper rash is painful. Then pat the area dry with a white towel. Colored towels contain dye, so it is best to stick with white.

Choose an ointment to protect the rash from becoming irritated any further. A petroleum-based ointment is fine for mild to moderate diaper rash. A zinc-oxide-based ointment is better for a moderate to severe diaper rash. Apply a thin layer of cream over the affected genital area after each diaper change.

Purchase a set of diapers that is one size too big. According to the Mayo Clinic, a diaper that is a little big will increase the amount of airflow in between the diaper and your baby's genitals. This will help your baby heal faster. In fact, it can be beneficial if you allow your baby to walk around without a diaper periodically throughout the day. If you can't run out and get a larger diaper, just make sure you keep the diapers you do have as loose as possible.

Seek medical advise from your pediatrician if you see little to no improvement in your baby's diaper rash after a week or two of home treatment. You also need to see your pediatrician if your baby develops sores, blisters or pus. The area may be infected. That would mean your baby should be on an antibiotic. My daughter ended up needing a prescription-strength diaper rash ointment in order to finally get rid of her diaper rash.

Warning:
Do not use scented baby wipes or perfumed soaps on your baby while the diaper rash is healing. The chemicals can irritate the skin and make the diaper rash worse.

Be careful if you choose to use baby powder on your baby. Baby powder will help absorb excess moisture to prevent future diaper rashes, but it can be inhaled by the baby. This could cause lung irritation.

Sources:

"Diaper Rash," Baby Center.
Mayo Clinic Staff, "Diaper Rash," MayoClinic.com.