Diaper rashes can be a nuisance to encounter for both children and parents. Rashes can cause discomfort, making it difficult for babies to sleep, move, or play.
It is often hard to determine the type of rash in babies and the root cause of the skin irritation, which can be quite discouraging for parents and caregivers.
This is why we have compiled a list of the most common rash types and treatment plans, so you can take the guesswork out!
Causes and Types of Diaper Rash
Unfortunately, it is very common for babies to experience diaper rash, and as a parent or caregiver, we understand it can be concerning.
Diaper rashes are caused by different factors that include irritation from wetness and friction, bacterial infection, or skin contact with certain chemicals that may be found in some baby wipes or diapers. Even laundry detergents and skin care products can play a role in your little one's rash.
To help you identify your rash, we have gathered the top three types of diaper rashes that are most commonly known.
Note: If a diaper rash spreads, worsen or if you gut feeling tells you it is not right, reach out to your pediatric healthcare provider for peace of mind and professional guidance. They can take a closer look and further evaluate your child's skin and suggest an appropriate treatment plan.
1. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis (also known as allergy rash) is an itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. These rashes can be caused by a wide range of external environmental factors, such as:Â
- contact with the diapers or the wipes
- chafingÂ
- moisture build up
- composition of urine and feces of your baby (which can vary depending on your baby's diet)
Since there are so many factors that can cause allergy diaper rashes in babies, it can take time to identify what exactly is causing your baby's rash. Once you have identified the irritant, you can try to eliminate the source of the allergy.
Here are a few tips that may help limit contact allergy rashes:
- Use hypoallergenic diapers and wipes
- Use gentle household cleaners on your diaper changing station and laundry detergent
- Choose natural skin care products for your baby
- Change baby’s diapers frequently
- Give your infant regular baths for their skin to stay allergen-free
- Use a gentle healing diaper balm to reduce redness
2. Reactions to Harmful IngredientsÂ
Certain ingredients in commercial diapers, wipes, or baby products can cause a rash or irritation. You should be mindful of products that contain fragrances or other skin irritants that could potentially contribute to a skin reaction. Before committing to a new product, test patch it before applying it all over your child’s skin.
Much like allergy rashes, treatment may involve identifying and eliminating the source of the skin irritations, using hypoallergenic products, and applying a corticosteroid cream to reduce inflammation.
For most diaper rashes, 3 simple steps followed daily can help you and your baby:
- keep the diaper area clean and dry
- use diaper rash creams or ointments
- change diapers regularly
- promote naked time as much as possible to let the skin dry and heal
3. Yeast Diaper Rash
Yeast diaper rashes are a type of rash caused by a yeast infection. These can appear as a bright red, raised rash with well-defined borders.Â
If you suspect your infant is suffering from a yeast diaper rash, antifungal creams and ointments will be your best solution!
These treatments can include creams and ointments that contain clotrimazole or miconazole and can be purchased at most drugstores over the counter. It is also important to keep the diaper area clean and dry in order to eliminate any harmful bacteria.
How to Prevent Diaper Rash?
As moms ourselves at La Petite Creme, we've been there and know how a rash can jeopardize the well being of the whole family.
This is why we are proudly manufacturing our line of Organic and EWG Verified diapering solutions to help your baby stay rash-free.
Using our lotion daily, at every diaper change, will not only perfectly clean your baby's sensitive bottom, but will also leave a soft protective layer that will keep rashes away.
Our creamy balm will come as a gentle savior in case your baby develops a rash.