How To Treat Nappy Rash

Nappy rash is a nightmare for both mom and baby, so you might be looking for some home remedies for nappy rash. A baby suffering from the nappy rash is uncomfortable and uneasy and usually cries and nags because of the pain. But if you can’t get to a physician quickly, there are some things you can do at home to ease the discomfort.

How Does Nappy Rash Occur?

The inflammation is irritation from acidic components in an infant’s urine and faeces – prolonged exposure within a restrictive area (like a nappy) causes the skin to be irritated by these stimuli.  

Nappy rash is common and will be seen mostly around your baby’s bottom area, groin and genitals. Sometimes it can be seen on the tummy and thighs. 

Other nappy rash sources may be when your infant is transitioning from baby food to solid food, if they are on antibiotics, or if they have diarrhoea or a cold.

Grove Collective says that any child who wears nappies can experience mild to severe nappy rashes. The red, itchy skin can bring discomfort and needs immediate attention. As alarming as the rash may seem, the proper natural home treatment and constant nappy changes can put you and your infant at ease again.

Other factors that can make diaper rash more likely include:

• Diapers that are too tight
• Sensitive skin
• Friction against already irritated skin
• Antibiotics
• A new diet

Make sure to use a proper nappy cream, and use it generously to avoid friction from the nappy. The more cream between the nappy and the skin, the less likely you will have a rash from friction.

Types Of Nappy Rashes

There are two main types of nappy rash – nappy dermatitis and yeast rashes. Knowing which inflammation your child has allows you to treat the problem accurately.

Nappy dermatitis is the more common type of nappy rash. It looks like tiny, red bumps, but in severe cases, the rash can turn into lesions and may bleed or become infected.

A yeast nappy rash looks similar to nappy dermatitis but may have additional white, fluid-filled blisters or swollen areas with a scaly, white outer layer. If the blisters burst open, infection can occur.

Natural baby lotions and some nappy rash products have plant-based and herbal ingredients to soothe your infant’s sensitive skin. Still, every child’s skin is different, and some may require natural home remedies instead. Some nappy rash products at the shop can contain harsh or drying chemicals.

Home remedies usually do the trick, but if you find that after a few days, your baby is still suffering, stop using the remedy and book an appointment with a paediatrician.

Apple Cider Vinegar

If your child sits too long in urine or poop nappy, the skin becomes too alkaline. Apple cider vinegar can help with this problem. All you need to do is add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to lukewarm water and soak your baby’s bottom in the mixture for 10 minutes.

After the soak, gently pat your baby’s bottom and let it air dry. A natural moisturising cream can be useful after your infant’s bottom is completely dry.

Try Removing Newly Introduced Foods

Introducing new foods to your child’s diet is a normal process and beneficial. However, some foods may be more acidic than others for your little one – for example, citrus fruits and tomatoes. The acid can sometimes make your baby’s urine and faeces very caustic, irritating them and resulting in a nappy rash.

Try introducing the food in small quantities to see if the nappy rash persists. If it does, remove the food from your child’s diet until the rash disappears.

Create Your Nappy Rash Cream

Yes, making your natural nappy cream is possible! According to Farmhouse Boon, a popular baby/mommy blog site, you need the following ingredients to create the protective barrier balm – olive oil, shea butter, coconut oil and zinc oxide. The homemade nappy rash cream can be stored in your fridge between nappy changes. Before you apply the balm to your baby’s bottom, rub your hands together to warm the lotion up to spread easier.

Another similar DIY nappy rash cream is made from one cup of coconut oil, one cup of olive oil, four tablespoons of beeswax pastilles, eight drops of disinfecting lavender essential oil, six drops of antiseptic lemon essential oil and four drops of anti-fungal, anti-microbial tea tree essential oil.

Breast Milk

Breast milk is liquid gold – not just for feeding your child, but as a natural home remedy for a nappy rash. Breast milk is filled with biodynamic properties, natural anti-ineffective and antibodies.

Experts advise parents to try breast milk on nappy rashes; although there is no clear evidence, it is not harmful.

Oatmeal Baths

Colloidal oatmeal reduces inflammation and irritation from atopic dermatitis and inflammatory skin conditions. Research reveals that colloidal oatmeal may reduce the pain and itching of a nappy rash.

Oatmeal bath treatments can be bought at your local pharmacy or online, or you make it yourself with plain oatmeal or quick oats in your pantry.

A Doctor’s Opinion

An unresolved nappy rash may need an evaluation from a doctor who will also check if there is an infectious component. A simple irritating rash can lead to bacteria or fungus infections. Your baby will need a prescription-strength treatment, such as a steroid, bacterial ointment, anti-fungal cream or oral antibiotics.

Medical Society

Before using home remedies or over-the-counter medications – especially for a baby – speak to a professional.

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