How to treat a nappy rash at home
A nappy rash is something every parent will have to deal with at some stage. Happily, it’s normally not too serious, but it does help to get it under control as soon as you can. Here’s how you can do so at home.
Understand what causes nappy rash
According to senior sister JSH van Wyk, a registered nurse with the South African Nursing Council, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to happy rash. As such, it helps to know what causes this kind of skin ailment in the first place. “Most nappy rashes are caused by prolonged dampness, friction and ammonia substances released from urine that can irritate your child's skin,” says Nurse Van Wyk.
Keep things clean
“The simplest way to avoid a nappy rash is to clean your baby’s nappy regularly so their skin is not in contact with any bodily fluids for too long. Modern-day disposable diapers have been developed to wick moisture away from the skin, so it’s not necessary to change it every hour, but it does help to keep an eye on the moisture levels so you can intervene when things get too moist. While you’re at it, give your baby’s bum some time to breathe before you put on the next diaper – some fresh air can do wonders,” recommends Nurse Van Wyk.
Keep an eye out for skin sensitivity
“Some babies are sensitive to soap, detergent or bubble bath. Alcohol-based baby wipes can also cause irritation. Try to keep tabs on when your baby develops a rash and see if there are certain products you should avoid, “recommends Nurse Van Wyk.
Looking serious? Contact your paediatrician
If things look more serious than you’d like and you can’t seem to get your baby’s nappy rash under control, Nurse Van Wyk strongly advises parents to consult with their paediatrician before purchasing and using any over-the-counter preparations or medications.
“If you’re not quite sure whether you’re dealing with a nappy rash or something more serious, it’s always best to consult with a registered healthcare provider who knows your child and sees them for their well-baby assessments on a regular basis before you administer any medication or use any salves. You will definitely be able to get a lot of recommendations from friends, family and online platforms, but it’s always the safest course of action to get input from a trained medical professional who knows your child’s medical history,” cautions Nurse Van Wyk.
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