5 Natural Remedies to Treat Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is common in babies. It’s an infection caused by a fungus called candida that proliferates in hot and humid places; for example, inside a diaper. There are many creams and other commercial preparations intended to deal with these types of skin conditions. However, we can also resort to equally effective natural solutions and remedies to treat diaper rash.
The chances of a baby getting candida diaper rash are increased when they’re not kept clean and dry. It can also occur when they’re taking antibiotics – even through breast milk – or when the number of bowel movements increases.
In addition, the acids in the stool when suffering from diarrhea or the ammonia that’s produced when bacteria break down the urine also favor the appearance of diaper rash.
Other causes that make diaper rash possible include diapers that are too tight and reactions to soaps and other products used to wash cloth diapers.
Symptoms of diaper rash
Signs of a yeast infection in the diaper area include the appearance of a bright red rash or a rash that becomes larger and larger and the presence of very red scaly patches on the scrotum and penis in boys or on the labia and vulva in girls.
Also, pimples, blisters, ulcers, large bumps, pus-filled sores, or smaller red patches may appear, which grow and mix with other patches.
How to treat diaper rash
Keeping your skin clean and dry is the best way to treat and prevent diaper rash. In the event of this infection, it’s also a good idea for the baby to be without a diaper for as much time as possible so that the skin can breathe.
To treat and prevent diaper rash, it’s very important to change the baby’s diaper frequently. This should be done as soon as you detect that there’s urine – even if it’s not much – or feces in the diaper. Cleaning by rubbing should be avoided.
When washing the affected area, it’s best to use a neutral soap so that it doesn’t alter the pH and further complicate the dermatitis. Also, if irritation has led to injury, use boiled water cooled to room temperature.
Also, you have to dry the area well before putting on a new diaper or letting it air dry. You also need to wash your hands well, both before and after the diaper change.
At the same time, there are creams and ointments specifically formulated to treat or prevent diaper rash. However, equally effective home remedies can also be used if applied properly.
“Keeping the skin clean and dry is the best way to treat and prevent diaper rash.”
Natural remedies to treat diaper rash
There are simple and natural ways to treat red, irritated skin in the diaper area. The most interesting are the following:
Baking soda
Adding two tablespoons of baking soda to your baby’s warm bath will help heal diaper rash and decrease the redness associated with this condition. You don’t need to rub the area; just leave the baby in the water for about 10 minutes and then wipe the area with a soft cloth.
Apple vinegar
Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with half a glass of water and apply it with a towel, gently patting the affected area. Finally, dry well before putting on the diaper.
Plain yogurt
Natural unsweetened yogurt is a great natural skin moisturizer, so you can help heal diaper rash by applying it like a cream.
After each diaper change, place some plain yogurt at room temperature on the affected area and then put the diaper on as usual. You can see results in just one day.
Organic cotton cloths
Instead of using disposable wipes to clean your baby when you change their diaper, use organic cotton cloths and running water. Disposable wipes can irritate your baby’s skin or worsen irritation due to perfumes, preservatives, and other chemicals they include.
Infusions for compresses
Compresses are an alternative to help reduce inflammation of the skin and keep it hydrated. They can be made with infusions of chamomile flowers, mallow leaves, oats, or calendula. All are recommended for topical use in case of dermatitis.
They’re prepared like any other infusion. First, you have to boil the water. After it reaches the boiling point, add the leaves, flowers, or oat flakes. Let it boil for about 5 minutes, remove it from the heat, and wait for it to rest and cool.
When the water has reached room temperature, you strain it. Now, it’s time to moisten a gauze or cotton cloth and place the compress on the baby’s skin.
Air dry
One of the main causes of diaper rash is a lack of air circulation. To remedy this, simply let the diaper area dry on its own before putting on a clean diaper.
You can play with the baby on the changing table or on a surface protected with something that’s waterproof for half an hour while the drying takes place. If the baby is cold, you can be cover them with something that’s washable.
With these simple natural remedies to treat diaper rash, you can find a solution to your child’s uncomfortable condition. Of course, if you notice that the symptoms don’t improve, or even if they get worse, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor as soon as possible to evaluate all kinds of doubts.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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- Moreno, R. A., & Peiró, P. S. (2000). Dermatitis atópica. Medicina naturista, (2), 112-121.
- Sánchez Landete, R. (2020). Atención farmacéutica en pacientes con dermatitis atópica.
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