How to Treat Nappy Rash

Most babies will experience nappy rash at some point, and it is usually treatable at home. Infants and children with pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis are more prone to developing a nappy rash. It’s important to remember how precious your baby’s skin is, particularly their bottom.

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And with babies using up to 2500 nappies in their first year alone, it’s really not surprising that their little delicate bums can become irritated from time to time!
Whether you’re using cloth or disposable nappies, both create a warm and moist environment that traps contents against the skin, leading to irritation. This can result in inflammation, discomfort, and sometimes infection.

What Causes Nappy Rash?

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Nappy rash is commonly caused by prolonged exposure to wetness, friction, and the presence of urine and faeces in the nappy area. However, a number of additional factors can contribute or worsen the condition:

• Ammonia in baby’s urine
• Faeces, especially when the baby is teething
• Sensitive or eczema-prone skin
• Non-absorbent cloth nappies or plastic pants
• Certain brands of nappies that may irritate baby’s skin
• Baby wipes containing harsh chemicals or fragrances
• Soaps, bath washes, or lotions
• Detergents used on reusable nappies or clothing
• Illness such as diarrhoea
• Leaving a soiled nappy on for too long 

Once you understand what causes nappy rash, you can help to prevent flare-ups before they become severe. As they say, prevention is always better than the cure!

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Signs and Symptoms

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• Inflamed, red, moist skin around the nappy area
• Blistering, peeling, raw patches, or ulcers
• Rash spreading to the tummy or upper thighs
• Red bumps, pustules or blisters – indicating possible infection
• Skin that feels warm to the touch
• Swelling or shiny, raw areas
• Baby is more irritable or uncomfortable, especially during nappy changes
• Crying or squirming when touched in the affected area
• Infected nappy rash may show symptoms such as pus, fever or increased discomfort 

If you see a linear, red rash across your baby’s belly or in their skin creases – especially after switching to a new brand of nappy – this may signal a chemical sensitivity. If irritation persists, always seek advice from a healthcare professional.

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Prevention and Everyday Care

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Keeping your baby’s skin clean, dry and protected is key to nappy rash prevention.

Here’s how to do it:

• Change nappies frequently – up to 12 times a day for newborns
• Clean the area thoroughly at each change using warm water or a fragrance-free wipe
• Avoid soaps, alcohol wipes, or scented products that can irritate sensitive skin
• Pat dry gently, or allow the area to air-dry before applying creams
• Apply a thick barrier cream (like zinc oxide or petroleum-based) to protect the skin
• Give baby regular nappy-free time to let their skin breathe
• Ensure nappies fit snugly but are not too tight – check with a finger at waist and legs
• Wash cloth nappies thoroughly to remove all residue and bacteria
• Avoid talcum powder or antiseptic creams unless prescribed 

Nappy Rash Treatments

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When a rash appears, treating it quickly can help soothe discomfort and prevent it from worsening.

• Gently clean the area using water or fragrance-free baby wipes (e.g. Mustela Stelatopia Cleansing Wipes)
• Apply a nappy rash cream such as Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream 123, which uses 98% natural ingredients and can be used from birth
• Use disposable nappies during flare-ups as they are generally more absorbent
• For cloth nappy users, ensure you use absorbent liners and change more frequently
• Avoid products like talcum powder or strong antiseptics which may irritate broken skin

Most mild nappy rash should begin to improve within a few days by following these steps. 

When to See a Healthcare Professional

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If your baby’s nappy rash is severe, not improving after several days, or appears infected, it’s time to see your doctor or pharmacist. You may notice signs of fungal (thrush) or bacterial infections that require a prescription treatment such as an anti-fungal or antibiotic cream.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• The rash spreads beyond the nappy area
• Your baby develops a fever
• You see pus, cracked or bleeding skin
• The rash is very painful or causing sleep disturbances

When in doubt, trust your instincts and speak with a professional. Your baby’s health and wellbeing is always worth the check-up.

Wrapping Up

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Nappy rash is common, and while it can cause distress, it’s usually easy to treat and prevent with the right care. Keep your baby’s skin dry, clean and well-protected, and respond early to any signs of irritation. 

And while it might feel overwhelming at times… (especially with over 2500 nappy changes in the first year), they’re only little once, and this too will pass.