Nappy rash is a very common issue - practically every baby in nappies deals with it at some point. Fortunately, it's usually easy to prevent and treat. This article covers what nappy rash is, how your baby gets it, and how to clear it up.
How do you recognise nappy rash?
You'll recognise it by red skin with small bumps in the nappy area. These bumps can be colourless, but also pink or red - if they're red, it may be a fungal infection. In that case, contact your doctor, who may prescribe an anti-fungal ointment. Alongside bumps, your baby may also have small (open) sores in the nappy area.
What does your baby feel?
Your baby can't talk yet, and will mostly express nappy rash through crying - understandable, since it stings and hurts. You'll notice this especially during nappy changes, when you wipe over the skin. Fussiness and reduced appetite can also occur. Nappy rash is generally harmless, but genuinely uncomfortable for your baby.
Causes of nappy rash
It develops when a (full) nappy irritates the skin in the nappy area. A baby wees around fifteen times a day on average and usually has at least one bowel movement a day - the moisture thins the skin and makes it more vulnerable, especially if the nappy is worn for a long time. Enzymes and bacteria in urine and stool act on baby skin and cause irritation.
These factors can also contribute:
- Not cleaning the bottom thoroughly enough after a bowel movement - even small traces of stool can cause bacterial irritation. Clean thoroughly with a washcloth or wipe, then pat dry.
- Not changing the nappy often enough. Aim for at least eight changes a day - the shorter urine and stool stay in contact with the skin, the lower the risk of irritation.
Preventing nappy rash
It's impossible to keep your baby's bottom dry all day, but you can make sure a wet nappy gets changed quickly. A good rule of thumb: change the nappy before each feed, and always just before and after sleep. Notice the nappy filling up faster than usual, or has your baby had a bowel movement? Change it straight away. Extra tip: weather permitting, let the skin air out for a moment before putting on a clean nappy, so it can breathe and recover.
1. Clean thoroughly and let dry
Clean the skin in the nappy area well with mild lotion wipes or a washcloth with water. Don't scrub too hard - it's painful for your baby and makes the rash worse. Let the skin air-dry, or pat it dry. Only put on a clean nappy once the skin is completely dry.
2. Apply a protective cream
Care for irritated skin with a mild, protective ointment made for baby skin, ideally at every nappy change. Pharmacies and drugstores stock various nappy rash creams and sprays; another protective ointment or petroleum jelly works too.
3. Not too tight
A nappy should fit snugly, but never too tight - that pinches the skin and makes irritation worse. Rule of thumb: you should just be able to fit a finger between the nappy and the skin.
Treating nappy rash
Does your baby have nappy rash anyway? The same tips that prevent it also help treat it: frequent changes, thorough cleaning and drying, and protecting the skin with a protective ointment. The rash usually clears up within a few days.
Not improving? A different nappy brand or different wipes might help. Always choose fragrance- and alcohol-free wipes, since scented versions irritate the skin more easily. If the rash doesn't improve after a few days, or gets worse, see a doctor.
About Kabrita
Kabrita goat milk follow-on formula is a Dutch product that combines the mildness of Dutch goat milk with valuable ingredients, in line with the latest scientific insights*.
* As with all follow-on formulas.