What should you know about diaper rash treatment?

Nappy rash is inflammation in skin covered by a nappy. Wetness, enzymes in stool, warmth and rubbing can damage the barrier. The first aim is to reduce those exposures while keeping the area protected. Some rashes have added features, such as redness in the skin folds or spots beyond the main patch, which can suggest yeast; other patterns may reflect allergy or a separate skin problem. Treatment depends on the appearance and the child’s symptoms.

Change nappies as soon as they are wet or soiled. Clean with lukewarm water or a fragrance-free product, then pat dry. Apply a generous bland barrier coating and avoid scrubbing it away at every change. Use loose-fitting nappies, avoid talc and fragranced wipes, and provide short nappy-free periods when appropriate. Emollient Therapy may help maintain the barrier. A clinician may recommend Topical Antifungal Treatment when the pattern suggests yeast.

Seek medical advice for blisters, open sores, pus, bleeding, marked swelling, severe discomfort or a rash that is spreading. Get prompt help if the child has fever, seems unusually sleepy, feeds poorly or looks unwell. Arrange a review when the rash keeps returning or does not begin improving with careful hygiene and barrier care, as the diagnosis or treatment may need to change.

Ask which ingredients are suitable for the child, whether the folds are affected, and what change would show that treatment is working. Mention recent antibiotics, diarrhoea, new products and any previous reactions to creams.