How to treat and prevent diaper rash on your baby

How to Treat and Prevent Diaper Rash on Your Baby

If there’s anything we’ve learned, it's how sensitive your baby’s skin is, and how easily it can be irritated. Unfortunately, diapers are one of those irritants. Don’t worry, diaper rashes are very common with more than half of babies under 2 years old developing them. The good news is that they’re easily treated!

What’s a diaper rash?

You’ll know it’s a diaper rash when the area in contact with the diaper becomes red, warm and inflamed. Some babies might develop a slight fever consequently, and they might be fussy during diaper changes or when the area is touched and washed.

What causes a diaper rash?

  • Moisture. When a diaper is left on too long, the moisture from the urine and sweat keeps the skin from protecting itself since it’s always irritated. This can lead to bacterial or yeast infections.
  • Allergies. Your baby might be allergic to a specific brand of diapers or a material within them. 
  • Rubbing / Chafing. Naturally, when your baby moves, their diaper will move with them and rub against their skin.

How to treat and prevent a diaper rash

  • Change your baby’s diaper frequently, especially when they get diarrhea and when they start eating solid foods.
    Ideally، when changing your baby’s diaper, you can bathe them in mild shampoo like NIVEA BABY Pure & Mild Shampoo. If not, make sure to clean all the crevices properly with NIVEA BABY Fresh & Pure Wipes
    Pat your baby dry gently and make sure the area is really dry before putting on a new diaper, we want to avoid adding any moisture to the area.
  • Don’t overtighten your baby’s diaper. Allow some room for airflow to avoid moisture and chafing as well.
  • Give your baby some diaper-free time to give the area time to breathe and dry naturally. You can lay them on a towel to avoid any messes. 
  • Find a diaper that works for your baby, their skin will react differently to different brands. Absorbency, breathability, and stretchability vary. Trial and error.
  • Always use a protective ointment or cream. NIVEA BABY Diaper Rash Cream prevents and relieves redness, and has no alcohol or colorants in it. Apply a thin layer when your baby is fully dry.

Diaper rashes are inevitable, especially between 9 and 12 months, so don’t worry. If the rash persists despite the care and prevention tips, consider a visit to the doctor for different treatment.

Take care of your baby and yourself beautiful Mama!