Nappy Rash Guide
Nappy rashes are a common problem for many parents and caregivers, not to mention highly unpleasant for your little one. So, let's take a closer look at what exactly a nappy rash is, how to treat it, and how to avoid it altogether.
- What is nappy rash?
- What causes nappy rash?
- How to prevent nappy rash
- How to treat nappy rash
- Get high-quality nappies from Inco UK
What is nappy rash?
Nappy rash is a common skin condition that causes redness, inflamed skin, and discomfort in the nappy area. It often happens when delicate skin is exposed to moisture from urine, friction, and irritants over long periods of time.
Symptoms often include tender, raised, scaly, or chapped skin, with raw patches in more severe cases. These can cause your baby lots of discomfort, so it’s important to know how to treat it if it ever happens.
What are the causes of nappy rash?
There are three main causes of nappy rash that any caregiver or new parent should be aware of:
- Moisture - Extended exposure to wet and soiled nappies can lead to skin irritation, as can prolonged contact with urine, which breaks down the skin's protective barrier and leaves it vulnerable to rashes.
- Friction - When a nappy is too tight, it can rub against a baby's skin folds and damage the skin, causing discomfort and irritation.
- Irritants - Chemicals in baby wipes, soaps, detergents, and even talcum powder can worsen skin rashes.
How to prevent nappy rash
Although rashes in babies are common, they can be easily avoided by keeping a few things in mind.
Change the nappy regularly
Change your baby's nappy regularly, especially after it becomes wet or soiled. This reduces the exposure of your baby's skin to moisture and avoids skin infections.
Gentle cleansing
During changes, gently clean the skin with water or use wet wipes that are fragrance-free and alcohol-free to avoid inflamed skin.
Pat drying
Instead of rubbing, pat the skin dry using a soft cloth. This prevents friction and reduces nappy chafing, which in turn helps prevent skin irritation.
Also, be sure that your baby's skin is completely dry before applying any nappy creams or barrier creams.
Choose breathable nappies
Absorbent nappies made of breathable materials are the best option for your little one, as they promote airflow. This reduces moisture from urine and contact between the skin and any irritants.
Nappy-free time
Let your child roam around without their nappy on, as this lets their skin breathe and prevents moisture from building up. Even just 15 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help prevent common rashes caused by extensive nappy use.
How to treat nappy rash
If your child already has a nappy rash, don’t panic—it can be easily treated at home without the need for a healthcare professional.
Keep a daily skincare routine
This helps to protect your baby’s skin. To keep skin clean, use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser during bath time. Avoid products with harsh chemicals or dyes that can irritate sensitive skin.
Moisturise
After cleaning your baby, apply a moisturising cream to prevent dry skin.
During each nappy change, use a layer of barrier cream like zinc oxide to protect their skin from contact with urine and nappy rubbing.
Skin creams
If your baby’s rash gets worse, becomes more inflamed, or shows signs of skin infection, your GP may suggest a variety of creams like:
- Barrier cream
- Antifungal cream (if caused by a fungal infection)
- Steroid creams
Get high-quality nappies from Incontinence UK
Absorbent nappies go a long way in preventing nappy rash. At Incontinence UK, our range of nappies, incontinence pads, and pull-ups are cheaper than most supermarket prices.
Plus, when you Subscribe and Save, you can enjoy an extra 10% off every order as well as handy doorstep delivery whenever you need it.
Take a look at our range of nappies and incontinence products, and start today!
