10 Tips to Treat Diaper Rash

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CeraVe

If you ask parents what their primary concern is when it comes to their baby’s skincare, many of them will say the same thing: diaper rash. Almost every baby experiences diaper rash at some point in time, and while most parents know the basics — change the diaper more often, make sure baby's bottom fully dries after bath time — sometimes babies will have a diaper rash that just won't clear up!

Babies experience diaper rash because their skin is extra delicate and has a lower resistance against skin irritants. When babies wear diapers, their skin is exposed to prolonged exposure to moisture and irritants (in their urine and stool). This can lead to irritation, chafing, and sensitivity.

One of the absolute best ways to treat diaper rash is to use a healing ointment. CeraVe Baby Healing Ointment was developed with pediatric dermatologists to help prevent and treat diaper rash. This petrolatum-based baby ointment for diaper rash forms a protective seal that helps seal out wetness, lock in hydration, and protect baby’s skin. Formulated with three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, CeraVe Baby Healing Ointment leaves baby’s skin soothed and helps maintain its protective skin barrier. This fragrance-free, lanolin-free baby healing ointment protects minor skin irritations due to diaper rash and can be used before or after diaper rash irritation starts.

Here are some other tips for treating and preventing diaper rash:

1. Always wash your hands before and after changing your baby’s diaper. Washing your hands can help prevent the spread of bacteria and yeast to other parts of the body (both your baby’s and your own).
2. Avoid wipes that have alcohol or perfume, since they can dry out the skin. Instead, opt for non-scented, alcohol-free baby wipes, and follow up with a damp washcloth.
3. Don’t make diapers too tight, keep them loose to allow for more airflow. Tight diapers can also cause chafing and other irritation.
4. Consider using ointment regularly, and apply more liberally at bedtime (or anytime exposure to wet diapers may be prolonged).
5. Avoid clothing that is too small. If your baby is wearing clothing that is too small and constricts air flow to the diaper area, this can cause irritation.
6. Give your baby as much diaper-free time as possible! Exposing skin to air is a simple and gentle way to keep it dry. Just lay out a towel on the floor and take your baby’s diaper off.
7. Pay attention to your baby’s bowel movements. If your baby is having more frequent bowel movements or experiencing diarrhea, they may be at increased risk for diaper rash.
8. Limit the use of soap; instead, opt for a gentle soap-free cleanser, like CeraVe Baby Wash & Shampoo.
9. Pay attention to your baby’s diet. Starting new foods can change your baby’s bowel movements and stool, which may irritate their skin.
10. If you use cloth diapers, make sure to use breathable diaper covers. Use gentle laundry detergent and avoid dryer sheets and fabric softener. Wash diapers in hot water and double rinse in cold water.

If your baby’s diaper rash persists after at-home treatment, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician.

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