Diaper Rash

Diaper rashes are an inflammation and irritation of the skin in the diaper region. A diaper rash can occur for many different reasons: yeast infection, food allergy, infrequent diaper changing, eczema, plastic sensitivity, chemicals, detergents or fabric sensitivity.

Ensuring the diaper area is kept clean and washed regularly will be your first step to preventing diaper rash. If a rash occurs try to determine what may be causing the rash; new foods in their diet, infrequent diaper changing, changing brands of diapers. If it seems like yeast (Candida albicans), the skin will look smooth, bright red and the borders of the rash will be well defined, sometimes almost looking spottier. You may want a doctor or nurse to diagnose the rash in order that you are able to tell your baby’s rashes apart.

Nutrition and Recommendations
First step is to refer to INFANT FEEDING, the first Tip of the Week provided by Baby Purity. Following this diet is a perfect start for a baby's healthy future.

A breastfeeding mother should watch out for allergenic foods in her diet: citrus fruits, juices, dairy products, sugar, yeasted bread and caffeine. Make sure your baby is getting plenty of water as this helps in neutralizing the irritating acids present in urine.

If you believe it is Candida, Lactobacillus acidophilus is very useful for fostering friendly bacteria in the bowel and preventing the fungal infections leading to a diaper rash.

Keep the skin clean, allowing it to air dry as much as possible. A warm bath or sitz bath can be useful in healing. Before placing the diaper on, apply a herbal powder to the diaper area. DO NOT use a cornstarch powder as this can aggravate yeast.

If the rash is extremely dry apply evening primrose oil or vitamin E from a capsule (not topical vitamin E as it can slow down healing if there are any breaks in the skin).

Allowing your child to be exposed to open air as much as possible will help the most in healing. When using baby wipes try to choose them carefully as many can be very irritating to your baby’s sensitive skin. Look for wipes with witch hazel (Aqua hamamelis) or calendula both are safe and gentle on a baby’s skin.