Diaper rash is a common skin problem for babies and toddlers. It can cause redness, irritation, and discomfort in the diaper area. Diaper rash can be caused by many factors, such as wetness, friction, sensitivity, infection, or new foods. The best diapers to keep baby dry can help with blowouts.
Understanding Diaper Rash
Diaper rash, also known as diaper dermatitis, is a skin irritation that occurs in the diaper area due to prolonged exposure to wet or soiled diapers. The rash can be red, bumpy, and warm to the touch and can cause your baby to feel uncomfortable and fussy.
One of the most frustrating causes of diaper rash is a blowout. A blowout is when your baby's poop leaks out of the diaper and onto their skin and clothes. This can happen if the diaper is too big or too small, if your baby has diarrhea, or if they poop more than usual. Finding the best diapers to prevent blowouts can put a stop to this problem.
Dealing with a diaper blowout can be a challenging task that requires patience and attention to detail.
Unfortunately diaper blowouts don't happen only at home. If you are wondering about diaper blowout solutions on the go than check out our handy guide.
Blowouts can make diaper rash worse because they expose your baby's skin to feces and other irritants for longer periods. Feces can contain enzymes that break down the skin's protective barrier and make it more prone to inflammation and infection.
If your baby has a diaper rash caused by blowouts, you may be wondering what you can do to help them heal faster and prevent future rashes. Here are some home remedies that may help:
Regular Diaper Changes
One of the most effective ways to prevent diaper rash is to change your baby's diaper frequently. Using the best diapers for blowouts will ensure that your baby's skin stays dry, reducing the likelihood of diaper rash.
If your little one is prone to rashes, consider changing their diapers every two hours or as soon as a wet or soiled diaper is detected.
Cloth Diapers
If your baby gets frequent rashes, consider using cloth diapers instead of disposable ones. Unlike disposable diapers, cloth diapers are breathable, which reduces the chance of developing rashes. Also, cloth diapers minimize chemical exposure that can cause skin irritation.
Keep It Clean And Dry
The most important thing you can do to treat and prevent diaper rash is to keep your baby's diaper area clean and dry. Change their diapers as soon as they are wet or soiled, especially after a blowout.
Use warm water or gentle wipes to clean their skin gently. Don't rub or scrub too hard, as this can damage the skin further. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel or let it air dry for a few minutes before putting on a fresh diaper.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural antibacterial and antifungal that can help treat diaper rash caused by yeast infection. Mix one-part apple cider vinegar with two parts of water in a clean bowl, then soak a clean washcloth to the solution.
Place the wet washcloth on your baby's rash-prone area and let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with water and dry your baby's skin.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera is known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective home remedy for diaper rash. Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the plant, then apply a thin layer of it on your baby's rash-prone area.
Leave the gel on the skin for a few minutes to absorb, then rinse with lukewarm water and dry with a clean towel.
Apply Soothing Creams
You can use diaper rash creams or ointments that contain aloe vera, zinc oxide and petroleum jelly to protect your baby's skin from moisture and irritants. Zinc oxide is an ingredient found in many diaper rash products that helps create a barrier between the skin and the feces. Petroleum jelly is another option that helps seal in moisture and prevent friction.
Apply a thin layer of cream or ointment after each diaper change, especially after cleaning up a blowout. You can also apply it over medicated creams if your doctor has prescribed them for fungal or bacterial infections.
Try Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies may also help soothe your baby's diaper rash caused by blowouts. Here are some examples:
Breast milk
If you are breastfeeding, you can apply a few drops of breast milk on the affected area and let it dry. Breast milk has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help heal the skin.
Yogurt
Plain yogurt (without added sugar or cornstarch) can be applied on the affected area like a cream. Yogurt contains probiotics that may help balance the bacteria on the skin and fight fungal infections.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is another natural moisturizer that has antifungal properties. You can apply it on the affected area like an ointment after each diaper change or you can use it to mix your own diaper rash cream.
Olive oil
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E that may help nourish and repair the skin. You can mix it with shea butter or zinc oxide to make your own natural diaper cream.
Give Them Some Diaper-free Time
Another way to help your baby's diaper rash heal faster is to give them some time without a diaper every day. This allows their skin to breathe and reduces moisture buildup.
You can lay down some towels or disposable pads on the floor or bed and let your baby play naked for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
Be prepared for accidents though! Have some wipes handy in case they pee or poop during their diaper-free time.
Check Their Diet
Sometimes, new foods can cause changes in your baby's stool consistency and frequency, which can lead to blowouts and rashes. If you have recently introduced solids or new foods to your baby's diet, you may want to monitor how they affect their digestion.
Some common culprits include citrus fruits, tomatoes, berries, dairy products, eggs, nuts, wheat, and soybeans. These foods may cause allergies or sensitivities in some babies that result in diarrhea or loose stools. Make sure to introduce solid foods gradually and monitor how your baby reacts to them.
Conclusion
Diaper rash caused by blowouts can be very uncomfortable and painful for your baby. But don't worry, mama! Some simple and natural home remedies for treating diaper rash can help soothe and heal your baby's skin.
Some of the best home remedies for diaper rash are:
- Keeping the diaper area clean and dry by changing diapers often and rinsing with warm water and diluted apple cider vinegar
- Applying soothing creams or pastes that contain zinc oxide or petroleum jelly to protect the skin from moisture
- Using disposable diapers that contain an absorbent gel to draw wetness away from the skin
- Giving your baby some diaper-free time to let the skin breathe
- Applying breast milk, plain yogurt, or coconut oil to the rash-affected area to reduce inflammation and fight infection
These home remedies can help your baby feel better and prevent diaper rash from getting worse. However, if the rash does not improve within a few days, or if it spreads or bleeds, you should see your doctor right away. Your baby may need a prescription cream or medicine to treat a fungal or bacterial infection.
Remember, you are doing a great job as a mom! Diaper rashes are very common and not a sign of bad parenting. With some love and care, your baby will be happy and healthy again soon!
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