Diaper Rashes

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A DIAPER RASH is any rash, which occurs in the area covered by a diaper. Almost all children will have a diaper rash at one time or another. Diapers trap in heat, moisture, and waste products. This combined with friction will eventually cause a diaper rash.

CAUSES OF DIAPER RASHES:

Contact with heat + moisture = perfect environment for yeast and fungus (diaper candidiasis)
Bacteria = bowel movements (contact dermatitis)
Ammonia = urine (contact dermatitis)
Allergies to soaps, detergents, diaper brands, wipes (allergic or contact dermatitis)

TYPES OF DIAPER RASHES:

Candidiasis (yeast/fungus): red, inflamed, raw, peeling skin surrounded by red satellite lesions (red dots)
Contact (allergic or non-allergic): red, raised bumps, may appear dry or with some open areas of the skin

HOME TREATMENT:

Anti-fungal creams and ointments for treatment of suspected yeast infection (clotrimazole, miconazole = eg. Lotrimin AF or store brands; Mycostatin = eg. Nystatin)
Protective barrier creams for treatment of contact rashes (Desitin A&D ointment, Vaseline, Triple Paste)
Change diapers immediately and frequently when soiled or wet
Leave diaper off and skin open to air as much as possible
Warm water rinses instead of wipes
Past of cornstarch or baking soda: this will decrease friction and prevent against future rashes
Cornstarch or baking soda baths: soothing to sore skin (add ½ to 1 cup to bath water)
For child with diarrhea: paint rash with Maalox so that when child has a bowel movement, the Maalox will decrease the acidity of the stool and therefore protect the skin
Paint Maalox over barrier cream

CALL IF ….

The rash appears infected (yellow pus, pimples, blisters, excessive red streaking)
The child is acting very sick
The rash is worsening with home treatment

RECIPE FOR MAGIC BUTT CREAM:

(Mix together equal parts and store in an air-tight container)

Lotrimin AF
Desitin (Zinc Oxide)
1% Hydrocortisone Cream

Diaper Rashes

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