Nappy rash and how to treat it.

Babies need to be changed anywhere up to 12 times a day, and so their delicate skin under their nappies needs to be properly cared for and protected. 

Nappy rash in our little ones is very common (and pretty much unavoidable) no matter how well you look after them. Most babies and toddlers will suffer from it during their nappy-wearing years at some point, to varying degrees. 

Typically, nappy rash is caused by long periods of wetness combined with friction. However other factors can come to play, making it worse or prolonging it, including:

• Ammonia in baby’s urine
• Faeces (especially when the baby is teething)
• Sensitive skin
• Plastic pants or cloth nappies that aren’t absorbent
• Certain brands of disposable nappies might irritate their skin
• Baby wipes with harsh chemicals or fragrances
• Soaps or bath wash
• Detergents
• Illness such as diarrhoea
• Leaving soiled nappy on too long 

Nappy rash is pretty obvious but to varying degrees. It may be slightly red in patches, or inflamed and red all over. It may also be swollen or hot and have red spots or pimple-like blisters or lumps. Your baby might also be extra fussy and unsettled due to the discomfort.

When it comes to treating nappy rash, prevention is better than cure – so trying your best to avoid it is key. Changing your baby’s nappy regularly and giving them plenty of opportunities for nappy-free time is important. Newborns may need to be changed up to 12 times a day, and this will gradually decrease as they grow.

Clean the area thoroughly with a gentle, fragrance-free baby wipes such as Mustela Stelatopia Cleansing Wipes, to remove all traces of urine and faeces. Make sure to dry the area thoroughly once you have cleaned it.

A barrier cream is one of your best tools for defence against nappy discomfort. Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream 123 made with 98% natural ingredients, is gentle enough to use from birth and nourishes as well as protects – so it works as a preventative as well as soothing and healing. Avoid the use of talcum powder or antiseptic creams.

Disposable nappies can be better during periods of nappy rash as they are specifically formulated to absorb moisture, however, if you do opt for cloth nappies make sure you use an absorbent liner.

If your baby’s nappy rash is severe, doesn’t appear to get better after a few days or you are concerned in any way, always speak with your doctor or pharmacist as your baby may have thrush or bacterial infection that may require an anti-fungal cream or further treatment.