Nappy Rash and Skin Care
Posted 24 February 10We found a great article this week on taking care of your baby’s nappy rash and sensitive skin conditions. Read on, or click here to go to the article on Kidspot.
Your baby’s skin is very sensitive. It is not necessary to use shampoos, powders, oils, baby solutions, baby soaps or baby wipes. Some products may contain perfumes and other ingredients that may irritate your baby’s skin. Simple is best.
What you need to care for baby’s skin: water, sorbolene and glycerine cream, zinc and castor oil cream (choose a brand which is thick and gooey)
TIP - Buy a small plastic squeeze bottle with flip top or nozzle from the supermarket. Mix up a solution of warm water and two teaspoons of sorbolene and glycerine cream. Use this with tissues to clean baby’s bottom. Do not store — it needs to be made daily.
Preventing nappy rash
Change baby’s nappy at least after each feed.
Wash baby’s bottom with the sorbolene solution or warm water every time you change the nappy, and pat dry with a tissue or clean nappy.
Let baby kick for a few minutes without a nappy several times a day. (But don’t leave him unattended on the change table.)
Apply a thick layer of zinc and castor oil cream a few times a day, especially before long sleeps – or at every nappy change if baby’s bottom is slightly red. (If this doesn’t improve then see your Child Health Nurse.)
When using cloth nappies: Soak nappy in nappy cleansing solution, tip off the excess solution and put them in the washing machine on a long cycle (with hot water if possible) without adding any detergents- this ensures all chemicals are removed.
When using disposable nappies: Use good quality nappies — cheaper ones may irritate the skin.
TIP - Use sorbolene and glycerine for bathing, instead of soap: wet baby’s skin with warm water, take a dollop of cream on your hands, and gently massage over baby’s body. Rinse off in the bath and pat dry.
If your baby’s nappy rash does not clear, you should see your doctor.
This article was created by Children’s Panadol Zero to Five Booklet. Sources include Babycenter; Australian Breastfeeding Association; Vic Govt’s Better Health Channel; Reflux Infants Support Association; Expectant Mother’s Guide; The Royal Women’s Hospital, Vic; The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne; Westmead Children’s Hospital; and Modern Medicine.
