Imagine changing your baby’s diaper and witnessing an irritated and itchy diaper skin area! How will you react? Chances are, you might panic or start looking for a solution immediately. You might talk to an experienced family member, or a friend or may call the paediatrician. Right?
There’s also a better way to handle this. By reading up about it. So, here we are with a blog that discusses common types of diaper rash, why it occurs, its symptoms/signs and ways to prevent it. Let’s begin!
Exploring The Causes Of Diaper Rash
Nappy rash can be caused due to various reasons, like-
- Prolonged exposure to moisture
- Bacterial and yeast infection
- Change in diet leading to alteration in stool composition
- Tight-fitting diapers resulting in chafing or rubbing
- Using a new diaper brand, wet wipe or fabric softener
Now, let us understand the different types of diaper rash in babies.
Types Of Diaper Rash
1. Irritant Diaper Rash –
Cause — The most common type of rash, occurs due to long-time exposure to urine and stool. Besides these irritants, sometimes the use of wet wipes or lotion in the diaper area can trigger an allergy. Thus leading to irritant diaper rash.
Symptoms — Appearance of pinkish-red bumps around the nappy area. This can get worse if a baby has diarrhoea. Even during teething, the extra saliva ingested passes through the gut and aggravates diaper rash.
Treatment — The first step is to reduce the frequency of diaper usage and implement diaper-free intervals for your baby. Make sure to clean the area gently. Use a highly absorbent diaper which helps in keeping the skin dry. Also, apply a diaper rash cream whenever you change the diaper.
2. Candida Dermatitis
Cause — Yeast is a fungus that is naturally present in several parts of our body (mouth, skin, & intestines). Some beneficial bacteria exist on our skin and help balance the skin microbiome. When this yeast-bacteria balance is disrupted, the yeast overgrows and causes a nappy rash.
Symptoms — It is found in the skin folds of the baby’s genitalia, groin, buttocks and upper thigh. It is marked by cracked or extremely dry skin, itching, discomfort and mild pain. It can lead to dark red (or purple) skin areas and small fluid-filled blisters.
Treatment — A paediatrician may recommend an effective and safe antifungal ointment, oral meds, or a cream for the baby’s nappy rash.
3. Bacterial Diaper Rash
Cause — This type of diaper rash caused by bacteria is called ‘Impetigo’. Bacteria like staph or strep lead to diaper dermatitis or aggravate an existing diaper rash. Bacterial infections are the second most common cause of diaper rash.
Symptoms — In a staph infection, you may see pus-filled pimples or yellow crusting on the skin.
With strep, you may notice bright, red-coloured skin focused around the anus (it can spread to the genitals also).
Treatment — Visit a physician/paediatrician for a consultation to get a detailed understanding of the right treatment and preventative measures.
4. Allergic Reactions
Cause — As the name implies, this kind of nappy rash is brought on by an allergy or irritant. We use different baby products for our little ones. However, despite choosing known and popular brands, the baby can end up with an allergic reaction. An infant’s sensitive skin doesn’t easily adhere to chemical-laden skincare products, leading to allergies.
Symptoms — Any allergy including a rash that appears whenever you apply a particular product is a clue to allergic diaper rash.
Treatment — The best way to treat this type of diaper rash is to switch the brand/product which you suspect is causing it.
The Final Note
After reading the blog, we can say, “A rash-free baby is a happy baby”? So far, we have discussed the four most common types of diaper rash among infants and babies. However, many skin conditions can start as or mimic diaper rash like seborrheic dermatitis, overproduction of skin oil, and paediatric psoriasis. The use of the right skin care product plays a key role in ensuring that the baby remains rash and allergy-free.
One such product worth giving a shot is Diaper Rash Cream. At Areoveda, we believe in providing safe and effective skincare products for newborns and their mothers. Dear mamas, feel free to visit our website and check the entire range of products for your little kiddos and yourself. Till then, take care and stay pampered!
FAQs
Q1- How To Treat A Diaper Rash Fastly?
Use a diaper rash cream with a high percentage of zinc oxide. It forms a protective skin barrier from moisture and does not let the existing diaper rash get worse.
Q2- Can I Use Talcum Powder On My Baby’s Diaper Rash?
No, don’t use talcum powder to treat a diaper rash. Use a clean towel to pat the skin dry. Avoid scrubbing the baby’s buttocks.
Q3- My Baby Has A Diaper Rash. Is It Important To Bathe Him Daily?
Yes. It is important to bathe your baby daily. Use a mild baby wash and do not use soap. Use lukewarm water to soak the baby. Maintain proper hygiene of the diaper area.
Q4- Can I Use Wipes To Clean The Baby’s Diaper Area?
Use wipes that don’t have soap, essential oils, fragrances, or harsh detergents as they may irritate the baby’s skin.
Article Source :
This article was originally published on
https://www.areoveda.in/blog/new-born/types-of-diaper-rash-symptoms-prevention-care