As a new parent, worrying about minor infections, rashes, head bumps, small scratches, and whatnot is quite common.
One of the most common issues all kids face is diaper rash. It is a term used to describe the red skin on a baby’s bottom that may occur in the area covered by a diaper.
If your baby has ever had one, you may have searched for quick diaper rash remedies to soothe their discomfort swiftly.
A diaper rash takes two to three days to heal with proper care and treatment.
To guide you better, we have compiled all the information you need to know to prevent and treat a diaper rash.
Continue reading to find out!
How to Treat a Diaper Rash?
As mentioned above, a diaper rash typically takes two to three days to heal properly with adequate treatment.
Here’s what you must do if your baby develops a diaper rash:
- Change the baby’s diaper frequently as soon as it gets dirty.
- Clean the area of the rash gently with soap and warm water.
- Avoid scrubbing it with a cloth. To dry the area, pat it with a soft piece of cloth.
- You can use petroleum or zinc oxide ointments to soothe and protect the skin from moisture. Apply them adequately during each diaper change.
It is recommended to leave your baby without diapers for at least a few hours every day so their skin can breathe and they don’t feel constant discomfort.
Following the above steps can help your baby recover from the diaper rash.
What are the Causes of a Diaper Rash?
A diaper rash usually shows up as reddened skin around the bottom, genitals, or thighs of the baby.
You may feel a bit of warmth in the area. If the rash is too severe, the baby may experience sores, blisters, or swelling.
Treatment and management come after the rash appears.
But it ultimately takes us back to the root of the problem – what causes a diaper rash?
These are the common reasons why your baby may develop a diaper rash:
- Not changing the diaper for extended periods
- Excessive moisture in the diaper
- Chafing or rubbing in the diaper area
- Yeast infection
- Bacterial infection
- Hot weather
- Allergies to the diaper material
- Diarrhea or starting solid foods
Ultimately, if a baby experiences physical discomfort for extended periods, they may develop a skin rash.
How to Prevent a Diaper Rash?
Now that you know the causes of a diaper rash or how to treat one at home, you must also learn how to prevent one in the future.
Diaper rashes are extremely common, and all babies who use diapers experience them at least once.
Thus, every parent must know how to avoid going through the treatment phase. Here’s how:
- Change your baby’s soiled diaper as soon as possible.
- Clean your baby’s bottom with warm water to soothe their skin.
- Let your baby’s skin dry properly before putting on a diaper.
- Do not scrub the skin to dry it. Gently pat it with a clean cloth instead.
- Do not use diapers that are too tight.
- Do not use products with excessive chemicals, dyes, or fragrances on your baby’s skin. For instance, talcum powder, alcohol-containing baby wipes, etc.
- Bathe your baby regularly.
- Figure out if any products are triggering your baby’s skin.
- Use mild detergent while washing the baby’s clothes. Avoid products with excessive chemicals, like fabric softeners, hard detergents, etc.
It is highly recommended to use baby-friendly products for your kids strictly.
Products for adults may react poorly with a young child’s sensitive skin and cause such rashes.
When to Go to a Doctor?
Ideally, a diaper rash should go away within two to three days of proper care and treatment at home.
However, if the rash persists even after that or appears to be spreading, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
A doctor’s visit may be due if the baby develops a fever, has pus forming near the rash, or seems consistently uncomfortable.
Depending on the extremity of the rash, the doctor may suggest ointments, medicines, or anti-fungal or anti-bacterial creams. It will also help you determine if the diaper rash is an allergic reaction.
Before going to the doctor’s, ensure you know all the necessary information.
For instance, when did the symptoms of the rash first appear? Are there any products that may be causing the rash? For how long has the rash been persistent?
The doctor will ask you these and similar questions for an adequate diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, a diaper rash should disappear in two to three days. The best way to treat and prevent a baby’s rash is to keep their skin as clean as possible and change the diaper soon after it gets soiled.
Also, allow the baby’s skin to air-dry after every diaper change. It is advisable to let your baby be without diapers for as much time as possible every day.
If the rash persists after three to four days, schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Proper hygiene and clean habits are the best way to care for your baby’s skin!
