Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is an inflammation of the skin that is caused by a reaction to the strong chemicals and enzymes in feces and urine, plus the buildup of heat those substances generate. The diaper traps and holds this noxious mixture against your baby's bottom.

If your baby has a contact diaper rash-diaper rash caused by a reaction to feces, urine, soaps, disposable diapers, plastic pants, and/or diarrhea-the area will be sore and tender. The skin will be red and irritated. There may be swollen areas and superficial ulcerations. The skin may be dry and scaling, with discolored patches. If your child has a fungal diaper rash-caused by the presence of Candida albicans in the intestinal tract-the skin will be smooth, shiny, and bright red. The borders of the lesions and rash will be well defined, and there may be scattered spots in the inguinal (groin) area. Ask your doctor or nurse to diagnose the rash so that you can treat the problem correctly.

Diaper rash is common. Although it can occur at any time as long as your child is in diapers, the most common age for diaper rash is around nine months. Certain factors increase the risk of diaper rash. Antibiotics, dehydration, and diarrhea, for example, make skin more vulnerable to diaper rash. The use of disposable diapers, in addition to contributing to the problem of clogged landfills, has also increased the incidence of diaper rash. Children wearing disposable diapers are much more likely to suffer from diaper rash than those in laundered cotton diapers are.

Supplements and herbs

• Warm water increases circulation and promotes healing. A full tub bath or sitz bath (in the sink) will help make your child more comfortable. To further soothe the skin, add calendula or chamomile to the water.
• If the rash is red and irritated, apply calendula lotion, gel, or cream at each diaper change. Both are soothing and promote healing.
• Apply evening primrose oil or lotion, a natural anti-inflammatory, at each diaper change until the rash clears.
• If the rash is moist, lightly sprinkle kaolin clay or cornstarch onto the affected area.