Nappy rash is something that affects almost all babies at some point or another.
Nappy rash is something that affects almost all babies at some point or another. No matter how well you look after your baby’s bottom there is a chance that they will experience this skin rash. Seeing your baby’s delicate skin so inflamed and sore is incredibly distressing for a parent.
In many cases, nappy rash can involve blisters and blood which causes the baby a huge amount of pain and discomfort. Helping your baby feel comfortable and clearing up the nappy rash will be an absolute priority for you.
We’ve spoken to mums and dads just like you and here are the remedies that worked for their babies.
Changing Baby’s nappy more often
This may come as a surprise to you as the natural reaction may be to leave your baby’s bum alone for as long as possible to allow it to heal. This is due to the fact that the baby becomes so distressed when you are changing their nappy.
However, one of the main causes of nappy rash is prolonged dampness and staying in a wet or dirty nappy for too long. Changing the nappy regularly will ensure that air circulates as often as possible and prevents the acidic urine from causing more stinging and pain for your baby.
Nappy Free Time
Allowing your baby to be naked from the waist down for periods of time throughout the day will allow air to circulate more freely. You can lay your child down on a towel or an open nappy to help manage the inevitable.
Avoid Using Soaps At Bath Time
Soaps and lotions look and smell amazing but quite often they irritate the very sensitive skin of a baby. Warm water on its own or a natural silcocks base emollient will be more than enough to clean a baby’s body. It is also important to ensure that your baby is completely dry before dressing them. Gently pat dry the sore and irritated area of nappy rash before putting their fresh nappy on.
Changing Nappy Brands
Many parents found that their baby responded better to a certain brand of nappies. Quite often in changing the nappy brand the nappy rash improved or disappeared.
Use A Barrier Cream
To help prevent nappy rash from returning use a barrier cream after every single nappy change. Apply thickly to create a barrier between your baby’s skin and their urine. Ensure that the cream is suitable for your baby’s age and ask a pharmacist to recommend a cream that is better for sensitive skin that is prone to nappy rash.
Prescription Creams
In the case of severe nappy rash that has not cleared up despite all of the above, you should seek advice from your GP. Your GP may prescribe a topical steroid cream if they are satisfied that you have taken all other steps to help improve the rash. The cream should only be used for a couple of days as specifically directed by the GP and pharmacy.
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.