What is nappy rash?

Nappy rash is one of the most common skin conditions of your baby’s early life. It is an irritation of the skin anywhere in the nappy area. While it might be sore for your baby, the good news is that it is rarely serious.

Nappy rash most often affects your baby’s sensitive skin when there is prolonged contact with urine or stools. Learn more about what causes nappy rash here.

Your baby’s bottom may have red patches or the whole area may be red. The skin may look sore and can feel hot to touch. Read more about spotting nappy rash here.

If your baby is suffering from nappy rash, you can use Sudocrem to soothe and protect your baby’s skin. The very best way to deal with nappy rash, however, is to prevent your baby getting it in the first place.

 

These steps will help:

  • Change wet or soiled nappies as soon as possible. Young babies need changing as many as ten to twelve times a day, whilst older babies at least six to eight times
  • Ensure you clean the whole nappy area thoroughly using plain water or baby wipes, wiping front to back
  • Lie your baby on a towel and leave the nappy off for as long and as often as you can in order to let fresh air get to the skin
  • Use a barrier cream such as Sudocrem
  • If your baby does get nappy rash use Sudocrem to soothe and protect your baby’s skin.

 

If you are using a nappy rash cream and the rash remains or your baby develops a persistent bright red, moist rash with white or red pimples, which spreads to the folds of the skin, they may have a thrush infection. You will need to use an anti-fungal cream, available either from the pharmacist or on prescription from your doctor. Ask your pharmacist or health visitor for advice.

Occasionally nappy rash can become persistent or can be related to other skin conditions like eczema. If you are at all worried, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor or health visitor.