Diaper rash: causes and remedies.

Erythema (or diaper rash) is an irritation of the skin that occurs between the genital-anal area and the surrounding area. There are several causes that can generate this condition, so the right measures must be taken to protect the delicate skin of the baby.

The causes:

• Rubbing In the months when the baby sits down and begins to move, the skin tends to rub the diaper causing localized redness.

• Moist environment The diaper creates a moist environment, regardless of any degree of absorbency of the diaper. Moisture can lead to maceration of the skin.

• Irritation on contact with urine and faeces. Feces, in particular, may contain drool, mucus and other stinging substances, and appear in an acidic and irritating form. Diaper rashes can occur more easily in children who often suffer from diarrhea.

• Contact allergy Your baby may have an allergy to diaper materials, or to lotions and creams used for changing. In the case of washable nappies, the child may have an allergy to the detergents used to clean the nappies. In this case, the pediatrician can request an assessment through allergy tests.

• Changes in diet Sometimes the introduction of new foods can cause a change in the consistency and quality of the composition of the stool, which are therefore irritating.

Diaper rash and fungal infections: what's the relationship?

Diaper dermatitis can be caused by the presence of a fungus, therefore by a mycosis, which develops thanks to the diaper itself.

The humid environment of the diaper can promote the proliferation of bacteria, fungi and yeasts. In particular, diaper rash could be a Candida infection, which generally affects the perianal and inguinal region, with the appearance of pustules around the erythema region.

In this sense, it is advisable to change the baby often, to make sure that the diaper environment is as dry as possible: this avoids the onset of a genital mycosis, which requires a certain time and certain precautions for complete recovery. of the little patient.

What are the remedies for diaper rash ?

Diaper rash can be treated by respecting some basic hygiene rules and with the help of some cosmetic products or, if necessary, with some specific drugs.

In particular, it is advisable to wash the baby with water at each diaper change. It is not necessary to use soap for every wash, which could lead to further sensitization phenomena. The skin should be dabbed and not rubbed, to avoid worsening the state of redness.

Diaper rash, in the event that it occurs as an irritation, can be treated with creams based on zinc oxide, such as Vea Zinco based on Vitamin E and Zinc, or Fissan paste. last present on the market also with a formulation enriched with Calendula, Almond Oil, Chamomile and Aloe Vera.

Panthenol-based creams can also be used, which perform a soothing action. Changing nappy brands to a more breathable model may help your baby have less discomfort. If using washable nappies, change the wash soap and do not use excessively scented fabric softeners or detergents.

If it is possible to leave the baby without a diaper, so as to allow the skin less stress. Obviously, in this case, the related "accidents" should be prevented. In the event that the infections are of mycotic origin, it must be treated with creams indicated to fight the proliferation of the fungus that caused it. If, on the other hand, the pediatrician prescribes an antibiotic, the latter could be combined with probiotics to avoid the risk of diarrhea.

How to prevent diaper rash ?

Diaper rashes can be prevented by first following strict hygiene rules.

First, you need to change your nappy as often as possible, both in the case of washable nappies and in the case of disposable nappies, to leave the skin dry. Choose age-appropriate diapers and don't close them too tightly.

Use creams and hygiene products suitable for the baby, that is, without alcohol and perfumes, which could be aggressive for the delicate skin of the baby. The information contained on this page must in no way replace the doctor-patient relationship; on the contrary, it is recommended that you seek the advice of your doctor before putting into practice any advice or indication reported.