What Are the Treatments for Bad Diaper Rash?

Cleaning the Diaper Rash

• Care needs to be taken when cleaning an area with diaper rash to prevent further irritation or pain. When changing diapers, the best option is to use a soft wash cloth with warm water. The ingredients used on baby wipes are often too harsh for raw areas. When bathing the baby, it helps to add oatmeal into the warm water and clean the areas using just a wet cloth. Gentle soaps may be used, but they can sometimes worsen a baby's diaper rash. Allowing the area to air dry following bath time helps to ensure that there is no excess moisture when the baby is put into a clean diaper.

Allow the Area to Heal Fully

• Allow the baby diaper-free time for 15 to 30 minutes a couple times each day. This allows the area to get fresh air and keeps excess moisture off the skin. It's helpful to lay the baby belly-down on a clean towel during diaper-free time. Older babies will need to be monitored to avoid accidents on the floor as they crawl or walk around. Frequent diaper changes are also essential in keeping the affected areas dry and clean throughout the day.

Creams to Help Healing

• Many options are available for diaper rash creams to help the area stay dry and heal properly. Commonly used creams contain zinc oxide. These work well for many babies, but for some they irritate the sore areas. Natural choices are helpful for babies with sensitive skin who do not respond well to zinc oxide. Natural options include chemical-free creams and creams made with oatmeal. Some mothers use Vaseline and corn starch to help heal diaper rash. Nursing mothers can try putting a little bit of breast milk on the area before allowing it to air dry, as breast milk contains antibodies and has healing properties.

Check for Causes

• A number of things can contribute to or worsen diaper rashes. Parents can try switching brands to decide if the diaper being used is causing the infant's rash. Most companies offer green or natural diapers that are made with fewer chemicals and are gentler on the skin. Parents who use cloth diapers may need to switch to a brand of natural detergent. Sometimes new foods will cause diaper rashes. Parents should introduce new foods one at a time and monitor the baby for bad side effects such as loose stools and rashes. If a rash contains blisters, pus-filled sores or is accompanied by a fever, consult a doctor immediately.