Nappy Rash

Nappy rash is an irritation of the skin that most babies get at some point.

In this article:

What is nappy rash?

Causes

How Chemist Online can help

Symptoms

Treatments

Seeking advice

What is nappy rash?
Nappy rash is any kind of irritating skin condition or rash occurring in the nappy area. It usually develops as a result of the baby’s skin being exposed to prolonged wetness, as well as increased skin pH caused by urine and faeces in the nappy.

Symptoms
The usual symptom of nappy rash is redness in the nappy area. However, this can also spread up to the abdomen or down the legs. The redness may also be inflamed with red spots and sore blotches which can cover a large area.

Causes
Nappy rash is caused by:

A wet or dirty nappy that has been left touching the skin for too long

A fungal infection which is a result of dampness under the nappy (and which usually affects skin folds, rather than the buttocks area)

A bacterial infection in the nappy area, possibly caused by a tiny scratch on your baby's skin where bacteria can grow easily

It is not advisable to use tight-fitting plastic pants. To avoid nappy rash, nappies should be changed frequently.

Treatments
Nappy rash may clear if the skin is left exposed to the air. If nappy rash develops, lay your baby down on a clean, dry towel for a sensible period of time each day without a nappy on (but do remember to change the towel if it becomes wet). Also without its nappy, let your baby roam safely for a few hours each day, to let the exposed area benefit from warm air.

Only wash your baby with water until the rash disappears, as soap may irritate the affected area and make the rash worse.

Ensure that you dry your baby thoroughly by patting gently with a dry towel after bathing and washing.

Apply a water repellent barrier cream to the skin before putting a new nappy on your baby. (There are many over-the-counter barrier creams and ointments you can buy.)

Change the nappy for a fresh one as soon as it becomes soiled.

How Chemist Online can help
Through this website we have available to buy Bepanthen Ointment which has a dual action benefit, helping to both protect against nappy rash and aid the natural healing of your baby's delicate skin. Also, Drapolene Nappy Rash Mousse is a non-greasy, fragrant and preservative free moisturising formulation that treats and prevents nappy rash and eczema.

www.chemistonline.co.uk

Seeking advice
If after using the aforementioned treatment the nappy rash persists, then seek medical assistance.
This information and advice is not intended to replace the advice of your GP or chemist. Chemist Online is also not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based upon the content of the Chemist Online website. Chemist Online is also not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites.