Down with Diaper Rash!

Waa-ah!

Diaper rash can be a nightmare for babies and their parents.

A quick visit to the pharmacy reveals how many ointments and other products are available for this burning problem. The choice alone is enough to make a sleep-deprived parent break out in hives! How can you select the right remedy for your bottom-sore baby?

The most effective treatment matches the remedy to the appropriate cause. Diaper rash may result from many issues:

Improper Moisture

A baby's sensitive skin may react to excessive moisture with a nasty rash. This is the most common diaper rash. Baby powder, particularly the cornstarch variety, is excellent for reducing moisture. If possible, exposing the skin to air as much as possible will help the rash to dry up and disappear.

Bathing in clear, clean water (without soap and other products) and then allowing it to air-dry also helps. Adding oatmeal or Aveeno powder to the bath may be soothing. A 15- to 30-minute exposure to air will greatly aid healing.

Excessively dry skin may also produce a diaper rash. In such cases, a gentle baby lotion or diaper cream is the best option.

Most important, a child's diaper region must be thoroughly cleaned and dried with each diaper change. When a rash is present, using water and a soft cloth (or soft paper towels) will be less irritating than baby wipes. Frequent diaper changes are essential, particularly in warm weather, when the child may be perspiring as well.

Sprinkling baby powder, cornstarch, or baking soda over a baby's diaper region after cleaning may help to keep him drier as well.

Teething

As new teeth are sprouting, a baby or toddler will often drool more and become fussy and irritable. He may exhibit an elevated body temperature, and he may develop mild diarrhea. As a result, a diaper rash may appear. This can be treated with frequent diaper changes, extra attention to cleanliness, and a soothing diaper cream. Ointments are not the preferred choice for this situation, as these tend to seal in moisture.

Allergies