Hello mom!

Are you noticing ‘A patch which looks like inflamed, bright red skin on the baby’s buttocks’? that’s a diaper rash! Please don’t panic, it is a common skin condition that usually occurs in most babies who are wearing diapers regularly for long hours. It is mainly caused by a wet or infrequent diaper change, skin sensitivity, and chafing. 

A diaper rash always annoys babies. But it can be cleared up with simple home medications, such as air drying, more frequent diaper changes, and ointment or remedies.

So, with HunyHuny, let’s explore the ‘diaper rash world’- our first stop will be;

SYMPTOMS:

You can identify diaper rash by the following:

• Skin signs- Diaper rash is noticeable by red, tender-looking skin in your baby’s diaper region including buttocks, thighs, and genitals.
• Changes in your little one’s disposition- You might observe your peanut seems more uncomfortable than usual, especially during diapering sessions. Remember a baby with a diaper rash often fusses or cries when the diaper region is washed or touched.

CAUSES :

Diaper rash can be a result of several sources, consisting:

• Irritation from stool and urine- Prolonged exposure to urine or stool can irritate a baby’s sensitive skin.
• Chafing or rubbing- If a diaper or clothing is tightfitting, then it rubs against the skin resulting in a rash.
• Irritation from a new product- Your little one’s skin may react to baby wipes, or a new brand of disposable diapers, or detergent, bleach or fabric softener you used to launder cloth diapers. Other factors that can add to the problem include ingredients found in some baby products like lotions, powders, and oils. So, be mindful of them too.
• Bacterial or yeast (fungal) infection- What starts as a simple skin infection may spread to the surrounding area. The region covered by a diaper is especially vulnerable because it’s warm and moist, providing a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. You can check these rashes within the creases of your baby’s skin, and there may be tiny red dots scattered around the creases.
• Introduction of new food- As little ones begin to eat solid foods, the content of their stool changes. This increases the chances of diaper rash. If you are still breastfeeding your baby, she may develop a diaper rash in response to something you may have eaten.
• Sensitive skin- If your baby is with a skin condition like atopic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis (eczema), might be more likely to develop diaper rash. However, these conditions primarily affect areas other than the diaper region.
• Use of antibiotics- Yes, antibiotics kill bacteria but it does not distinguish between the good or bad ones. When your baby is taking antibiotics, bacteria that is responsible for keeping yeast growth in check may be depleted, resulting in diaper rash due to yeast infection. It is also applicable to babies who are breastfed by mothers taking antibiotics. 

PREVENTION:

The best way to avoid diaper rash is to keep the diaper region clean and dry. Here are a few simple strategies that can help you reduce the risk of diaper rash developing on your baby’s precious skin.

• Change diapers often.
• Gently rinse or wipe your baby’s bum with warm water as part of each diapering session.
• Be gentle while patting your baby’s skin dry with a clean towel or simply let it air dry. Never rub as it can irritate the skin.
• Prefer Re-usable Cloth Diapers with insert pad& adjustable snap buttons rather than disposable ones. Cloth diapers are reusable and made from natural materials, making the skin as well as pocket friendly. Here HunyHuny’s Cloth Re-usable Diaperswith insert pads& adjustable snap buttons make wonder.
• Never overtighten your baby’s diapers.
• Give your little fella’s bottom more time without a diaper.
• Consider using petroleum jelly or coconut oil regularly in your baby’s diaper area.
• After changing diapers, wash your hands well. It will prevent the spread of bacteria to other parts of your baby’s body, or other children as well.

You may like: Free Size Reusable Diaper/ Nappies with 4 Pc Cloth insert - Mixed Color 

HOME REMEDIES :

Following are the list of home remedies for diaper rash:

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is one of the most effective remedies for diaper rash in babies. It is rich in anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Wash your baby’s bum with warm water and dry it using a soft towel. Then, take half a tablespoon of coconut oil in your palm and gently apply it on the affected area.

Give an Oatmeal Bath

Oatmeal is a tried and tested remedy for diaper rash. It gives relief from pain. Take a tablespoon of dried oatmeal and mix it in bathwater. Make your baby stay in the bath for good 5-10 minutes, then pat dry her skin. 

Breast milk

Yes, you read it right!  Your breast milk is an effective remedy for your baby’s diaper rash. All you need to do is just apply a few drops of breast milk on the affected area and allow it to dry. 

Yogurt 

Yogurt can be used to treat diaper rashes and inflammation. But remember, we are talking about only plain homemade yogurt, no flavored or added sugar one. Take a hand full of yogurt and apply a thick layer on the rash-affected area. The rashes will disappear within a couple of days. While applying, make sure that the yogurt you are using should be at room temperature.  

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is worldwide known for Vitamin E and how beneficial it is for the skin. If your child’s diaper rashes are accompanying severe inflammation, you should use aloe vera gel. It will provide relief to your baby’s skin.

Baking soda

Baking soda helps in balancing pH levels and removes harmful bacteria and fungi from your baby’s skin. Take two tablespoons of baking soda and mix it in warm water. Use that solution to gently wash your baby’s rashes regularly. Here instead of patting it, let it air dry and this remedy will work like a charm.

WHEN TO SEEK A DOCTOR:

If your little one’s skin doesn’t improve after a few days of home remedies, talk with your baby’s doctor. In some cases, you will require a prescribed medication to treat diaper rash.

But, have your child examined immediately if the rash;

• Is severe or unusual,
• Getting worse despite home treatment,
• Bleeds, itches, or oozes,
• Causes burning or pain while urination or a bowel movement,
• Is accompanied by a fever.

SUGGESTION :

You might wonder about what kind of diapers to use. When it comes to totally avoid diaper rash, there is no compelling evidence that cloth diapers are better than disposable diapers or vice versa. But using Re-usable Cloth Diapers with insert pads& adjustable snap buttons can provide prevention more than the disposal ones. Even though always change your little one’s diaper as soon as possible after he/she wets or soils the diaper to keep the bottom as clean and dry as possible. Try investing in HunyHuny ‘s free size Re-usable Cloth Diapers with an insert pad & adjustable snap button or You can also check out How To Choose The Best Diaper For Your Baby. They are capable of adjusting body shape from newborn to toddler babies, and the absorbent insert pads help to keep the baby dry.

Hope this helps you guys. Let us know your experience how you treated diaper rash at home, what’s your secret to it, Share it with fellow moms!

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