How to treat nappy rash

Moisture, urine, stool, rubbing, and fragranced products can weaken the skin barrier. Redness may be smooth or patchy across the buttocks, folds, genital skin, or lower abdomen. Blisters, pus, marked swelling, or unusual pain suggest another problem may be present.

Change wet or soiled nappies promptly. Rinse with lukewarm water or use a fragrance-free cleanser, then pat rather than rub. Let the skin dry fully and give safe nappy-free time. Apply a thin layer of bland protective emollient; see Emollient Therapy. Avoid scented wipes, scrubbing, and talcum powder. Do not use steroid, antibiotic, or antifungal creams without advice. A clinician may recommend Topical Antifungal Treatment if yeast is suspected.

Contact a clinician if the rash spreads, cracks, bleeds, blisters, oozes, becomes very painful, or comes with fever or an unwell child. Seek review when careful care is not helping or the rash returns, because eczema, yeast, allergy, or infection may need targeted treatment.

Which barrier product is suitable? Could this be yeast or eczema? What signs mean treatment should stop or the skin should be reviewed?