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Nappy rash symptoms and tips

We’ve found an article about nappy rash symptoms and prevention but please feel free to share your stories and tips with our readers.

The most common cause of nappy rash (also called diaper dermatitis) in babies is irritation. Constant moisture, occlusion and rubbing can cause damage to the skin. This is further irritated by bacteria, yeasts (eg Candida or thrush), detergents, urine (wee) and faeces (poo).

Nappy rash is made worse by:

• Runny, loose poo (diarrhoea).
• Not changing the nappy often enough.
• Plastic pants.

Most children grow out of nappy rash with toilet training.

Signs and symptoms

• The skin in the nappy area looks red and raw. It can be generally red, or spotty in appearance, particularly at the edges of the rash.
• It can be sore or itchy when the area is wiped.
• Your baby may be unsettled or irritable.

Care at home

• A good quality disposable nappy is best. These allow the moisture to be absorbed quickly, keeping the skin dry. Whilst cloth nappies are good for the environment, they do not take up moisture as well as disposable nappies.
• Nappies should be changed often (about 5-7 times a day in babies under 12 months), reducing the contact of urine and faeces with the skin.
• At each nappy change your baby’s bottom should be gently wiped with cotton wool or ‘Chux’ type cloths, dampened with luke-warm water. Baby wipes can be quite irritating and should not be used.
• A barrier cream should be thickly applied at each nappy change. This will prevent the moisture and irritants from reaching the skin. Zinc cream is the best or white soft paraffin. If the cream wipes off too easily, try another brand, as the idea is to create a barrier. These creams are available from your Pharmacy, or may be prescribed by your doctor.
• Try to let your child have as much time without the nappy on as possible.
• Talcum powder should not be used on nappy rash.

Many rashes can occur in the nappy area and may not be due to nappies. Some conditions (such as eczema or a skin infection) which can be found on any area of the body, do not respond to the treatment for nappy rash. If the rash is not improving, see your local doctor or dermatologist.

Treatment / preparations

• If persistant nappy rash that does not respond to nappy creams, a medicated cream such as an antifungal or hydrocortisone may be necessary. Do not use any stronger cortisone creams in this area unless your doctor tells you to.
• Antiseptics should not be used on nappy rash.

When to come back

• See your doctor if the rash does not improve within 1-2 weeks.

Key points to remember

• Nappy rash can make your baby’s skin red and sore. Babies may become irritable and unsettled, especially if the rash is ‘red raw’.
• Prevention is most important. Keeping the skin clean and dry by changing nappies frequently and preventing urine and faeces from contacting the skin by using a barrier cream is important.
• A good quality disposable nappy is best. Allowing ‘ no nappy’ time can also help.

The Royal Children’s hospital Melbourne: Kids health info for parents