Taking Care of Diaper Rash

Your baby's skin is soft, smooth, and oh-so-touchable. But it's also ultra-sensitive. That's why diaper rash is so common—and why you want to provide quick relief when it strikes. To help you ease your little one's discomfort and take care of her skin, here are answers to some common questions.

What is diaper rash?

An inflammation of delicate baby skin that's typically caused by wetness or irritants from a dirty diaper.

What causes a diaper rash?

Diaper rash can be caused by the breakdown of baby's tender skin from the friction of rubbing diapers, or prolonged contact with wet or soiled diapers resulting in trapped moisture. Skin integrity can be challenged by contact with urine, feces, and bacteria. Also, antibiotics or new foods can cause diarrhea, which can result in irritation that may lead to diaper rash.

How do I prevent diaper rash?

• Change a wet or soiled diaper as soon as possible
• Gently but thoroughly clean baby's skin and let dry completely. Use an alcohol-free cleanser that is delicate on baby's skin
• Use DESITIN^® ointments to instantly create a protective moisture barrier, especially at bedtime, when exposure to wet diapers may be prolonged
• For better air circulation, put diaper on loosely, or consider letting baby go without a diaper periodically
• If signs of a rash are already showing, use DESITIN^® ointments at each diaper change to help heal and protect baby's bottom

What does it look like?

The skin of the diaper area may look red or irritated and possibly feel warm to the touch. If left untreated, the rash may worsen and spread to a larger area.

When is it most likely to occur?

It can happen anytime your baby is wearing a diaper, but it may be more common after changes to her diet, such as the transition to solid foods, or when breastfeeding moms eat certain foods.

What can you do to treat diaper rash?

Take the following steps right away:

1. 1 Gently but thoroughly clean the diaper area. Use a non-irritating wipe or a soft washcloth and water. Pat dry with a towel (do not rub) and then let the area air-dry.
2. 2 Apply a thick layer of DESITIN^® ointment. DESITIN^® zinc oxide diaper rash ointment provides relief from the very first use, because it forms a protective layer on skin to soothe and relieve rash discomfort on contact.
3. 3 Put on a new diaper. Keep it loose to reduce friction.
4. 4 Repeat these easy steps at every diaper change. Check your baby's diaper frequently so you can change her as soon as she needs a clean one.

When should you call a doctor?

See your pediatrician if the rash worsens or does not clear up in 7 days, or clears up and occurs again within a few days.