Diaper rash: how to recognize it, treat it and avoid it
According to some statistics and even as stated by Kimberly-Clark, the creator of Huggies diapers, over 50% of children (usually users of disposable diapers) have had diaper rash at least once in their lives.
But is dermatitis really such a normal thing?
Small spoiler: absolutely NOT!
One of the main and most common causes of diaper rash is the absorption of the baby's natural skin moisture by the ultra-absorbent materials of disposable diapers.
This irritation is certainly curable, but it can also be PREVENTED with some precautions and the use of washable diapers.
Read on to find out why!
What is diaper rash?
Diaper rash , or nappy rash, is a very common condition in newborns and approximately 50% of them suffer from it at least once within 15 months of life.
It is an inflammation of the skin in the area of the genitals covered by the diaper.
Usually it can be of two types:
- Irritant dermatitis : the most common and frequent one caused by chemical agents (detergents, creams, etc.), physical-chemical agents (diapers) or biotic agents (urine and feces);
- Allergic dermatitis : very rare under one year of age, but caused by the child's sensitivity to some materials used in the diaper.
The typical redness of the area can also be confused with other similar skin diseases:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Psoriasis
However, in these cases the affected area of skin is not usually the one in contact with the diaper. For a correct diagnosis it is important to consult your pediatrician or a dermatologist.
How to recognize it
Diaper rash presents with visible symptoms in the area covered by the diaper. These symptoms may include:
- Redness : The baby's skin appears red, shiny and irritated.
- Small papules : Small papules or blisters may appear on your baby's skin.
- Flaking : Your baby's skin may flake or crack.
- Itching : The child may feel itchy, uncomfortable and may try to scratch the affected area.
- Crying : The baby may cry when his diaper is changed due to pain and irritation.
In some cases, dermatitis can be complicated by a bacterial or fungal infection and in this case the following symptoms may also be added, in addition to the previous ones:
- Pus : Presence of pus or yellow crusts on the baby's skin.
- Swelling : The affected area may feel swollen and warm to the touch.
- Pain : The child may feel severe pain when the affected area is touched.
When is he coming?
Diaper rash or prickly heat?
Diaper rash is often confused with prickly heat or vice versa, especially in the summer.
In fact, prickly heat is also an inflammatory skin disorder that manifests itself with a rash. The main causes are obstruction of the sweat ducts, high temperatures, humidity and moisture, which is the typical environment in the diaper area.
To recognize the difference it is important to observe the symptoms:
- Diaper rash causes redness, small bumps, scaling, and pain.
- Heat rash causes small clear or red blisters, itching, burning sensation and this irritation can also extend along the leg of the child. Usually if the child suffers from it it can also appear behind the neck and under the armpits.
To prevent both conditions, it will be important to change the diaper frequently and use breathable diapers.
Small spoiler: here's why washable diapers are allies against diaper rash !