Diaper dermatitis is the most common skin problem in infancy. It occurs in half of all diaper-wearing infants and children. It is typically caused by irritation of skin from being in contact with urine and feces, and the fact that some candida species tend to normally reside in our skin. These are the two most important factors leading to diaper dermatitis.
OK, so what simple things can be done at home to address it? The first step is to decrease contact time with urine and feces, as well as to decrease moisture in diaper area. Try these measures to help prevent and heal a diaper rash:
- Change dirty diaper as soon as possible or allow your little one to be diaper free.
- During the day clean diaper area with water instead of wipes (too much of this can cause irritation of the skin)
- Pat your baby until he is fully dry before putting the new diaper.
- Apply water repellent measures such as zinc oxide with every diaper change.
If diaper dermatitis persists despite these conservative measures, a yeast infection could be the reason it is not improving. At this point, consider having your little one evaluated by their pediatrician for adequate treatment.
Happy diaper changing!