Skin rashes in the diaper area that are caused by a various skin disorders are called diaper rashes. Prolonged wetness caused by urine is the main reason that causes these rashes. Red spots and blister may appear in the affected area. These rashes are common in babies aged 8 to 10 months. It is better to change diapers at right intervals to keep the area dry. It is also recommended to use quality diapers to avoid skin rashes. There are many commercial creams available in market to cure rashes. But, if they contain alcohol, it may worsen the rashes instead of curing them. However, when you are dealing with a baby’s skin, it is better to try some harmless home remedies for treatment of these types ofrashes instead of the chemical treatments.
Causes of Diaper Rash
Constant use of diapers can cause damage to the delicate skin of babies. Rashes are caused when skin reacts with the ammonia in the stale urine for an extended time. This causes the protective layer of the skin to break down and causes skin inflammation. Hence, skin becomes vulnerable to all types of infections. If the wet diaper is left unnoticed on the baby’s body, then it will aggravate the condition. Detergent residues in the diaper may also cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin. Babies with sensitive skin will have even worse condition and very easily develop rashes. Allergic reactions to antibiotics, humid weather, irregular change of diapers and elastics in diapers can aggravate diaper rash.
Home remedies for diaper rash
Decoction of white oak bark, which has anti-fungal properties, can help cure diaper rash. To prepare the decoction, boil small quantity of white oak bark in water for 20 minutes and strain the liquid.
Adding some oatmeal or baking soda with the warm bathing water is good. This is one if the good home remedy for diaper rash.
Another effective diaper rash remedy is vaseline and milk of magnesia are also effective in healing rashes.
Leave the baby without diaper at least for half an hour after bath to keep the baby dry. This is one of the good diaper rash treatment.
Neem paste made from grinding neem leaves is also an effective home remedy for curing rashes.
Adding vinegar to the final rinse when washing diapers can be very good home remedies for diaper rash.
Calendula cream may relieve rashes and offers cure. This is a good natural remedy for diaper rash.
Oil applications for diaper rash
Mix sandalwood essential oil, peppermint oil and lavender oil in any carrier oil such as sweet almond oil. Apply the lotion to the affected area to get relief.
Olive oil, tea tree oil and lavender oil are mixed with water and can be applied as an effective home remedies for diaper rash.
Another effective diaper rash cure is tea tree oil, aloe vera gel and vitamin e oil are also effective in treating these types ofrashes.
You can apply well-mixed olive oil and water on the affected area.
Application of egg whites or shark liver oil is helpful in curing rashes effectively. Cod liver oil or vegetable oil can also be applied on the affected area to heal rashes.
To get rid of rashes, it is necessary to change the diapers in required intervals. Use warm water for bathing the baby and wipe well. It is better to dry completely before using diapers. It is not advisable to use baby wipes that contain alcohol as it can aggravate the rash. Infants on antibiotics may be more prone to rash. Use baby wipes as diaper rash remedies which does not contain alcohol or a washcloth to clean the entire area, including the buttocks and skin folds. Cloth diapers must be washed in warm water using mild detergent since harsh detergents can worsen the rash. Use well-fitting diapers made from soft material. Diapers should not be tight and elastic bands must be avoided. Changes in infant’s diet can cause frequent bowel movements and may result in the increase of rashes. It is important to keep the baby clean and dry to prevent diaper rashes.