Health Care Guide

Diaper rash is a skin reaction, usually to the moisture and bacteria in a baby's urine and stools, to the soap used to wash diapers, or to disposable diapers. While it is uncomfortable, diaper rash is usually not dangerous.

Symptoms of the rash are a red bottom and thighs. It will be easier for you to recognize diaper rash after you have seen it the first time.

Prevention

Top of Page

Change diapers as soon as possible after they have been soiled or wet.
As often as possible, leave your baby's skin open to the air for 5 to 10 minutes before applying a clean diaper.
Wash diapers with mild detergent or soap (such as Ivory Snow), and rinse twice. Do not use bleach.
If your baby has frequent diaper rash, avoid using plastic pants for a while. They trap moisture against the baby's skin.
When your baby has diarrhea, protect the diaper area with zinc oxide or Barriere cream.

Home Treatment

Top of Page

Stop using plastic pants when the rash appears.
Change diapers frequently. Using a washcloth and water, rinse the skin in the diaper area at every diaper change. Allow the diaper area to air dry if possible. Wash the area with a mild soap once a day.
Try protecting the skin with Barriere cream or zinc oxide cream. Apply cream only to dry skin. Discontinue creams if a rash develops or they appear to slow healing.
Try another brand of disposable diapers. Some babies tolerate one kind better than another.
Avoid bulky or multilayered diapers.
Try changing detergents if the rash does not clear.

When to Call a Health Professional

Top of Page

If the diaper rash becomes very red, raw, or sore-looking, or if it has blisters, pus, peeling areas, or crusty patches.
If the rash is mainly in the skin creases, because this may indicate a yeast infection.
If a significant rash lasts longer than 5 days.

FAMILY HEALTH CARE +

Return to index