Tips on Treating Severe Diaper Rash

Exposure to bacteria and chemicals in diapers and baby wipes can change a mild diaper rash into a severe one.  A truly severe diaper rash is when there are blisters, peels, bleeds or oozing fluids from your baby's bum.  If baby’s severe diaper rash should go away within a day or two by following these tips.

Letting your baby go without a diaper for short periods of time can give the diaper rash a chance to breath and dry out

• Are there white bumps?

If your baby's diaper rash has tiny white bumps the rash is most likely caused by yeast.  Anti-fungal medication and Clotrimazole cream are available over the counter and can usually take care of this type of rash in a day or two.

• Wipe but not with a wipe.

Commercial baby wipes contain chemicals and alcohol that sting a baby's bottom and can worsen a rash. Use a bulb syringe and squeeze purified lukewarm water over the diaper area and plot dry with a soft washcloth.  Then wipe a second time with a soft, clean and dry cloth.  Make sure your baby's skin is completely dry before you put a new diaper on.

•  Air those buns out.

Letting your baby go without a diaper for short periods of time can give the diaper rash a chance to breath and dry out. It can also provide your baby with relief from having a diaper pressing against his burning buns.  If you are worried about accidents, put a towel or waterproof pad on the floor under where your baby is playing.   

• It might be the brand!

Some diaper brands don’t absorb moisture well and contain harmful fragrances or chemicals.  Changing brands might reduce the amount of rashes your baby gets. Using the most organic and naturally made diapers available is the best option for baby’s with sensitive skin.

• Visit a pediatrician.

When a diaper rash begins to blister and worse it is time to see your doctor.  He can prescribe strong diaper rash ointments that aren’t available over the counter.  Sometimes a severe diaper rash can also be a result of an allergy and it will take a doctor to diagnose.

• Prevent a severe rash from forming next time.

If your baby has a diaper rash, use combination creams such as Triple Paste or Butt Paste to prevent a severe rash from forming.  Diaper rash creams with petroleum jelly, white zinc oxide ointment or aluminum acetate should be used every diaper change if your baby is prone to severe diaper rashes.