Diaper rash

Infant skin is  special !!

The skin of an infant is very thin and easily damaged. Even short exposure to the sun’s rays or to hot water will cause a burn. The use of chemicals and soaps which are unsuitable for an infant’s delicate skin can lead to irritation or to the development of an allergic reaction. In recent years there has been considerable evidence showing that a connection exists between frequent sunburn in childhood and an increased risk of skin growths in later life, and therefore it is advisable to protect an infant’s skin from excessive sunshine. He or she should be placed in a shady spot and if necessary a sunscreen specially formulated for infant skin should be applied.

Because of the fact that the sweat glands are not fully active, infants sometimes develop “prickly heat,” also known as milaria. The problem can easily be solved by regulating room temperature, dressing the baby in light, loose clothing and by avoiding the use of greasy salves and lotions which prevent the evaporation of perspiration.  If necessary the skin can be cooled by wiping it with a sponge or washcloth dipped in cool water. Calamine lotion can also be used.

What is  diaper rash ?

Diaper rash is the most common skin complaint found among infants. It is so common that almost every baby seems to suffer from it at least once. Diaper rash is an inflammation characterized by redness and irritation on those areas of the skin covered by the diaper: buttocks, groin, thighs and lower stomach. This rash develops as the result of a combination of causes. Continued contact with urine irritates the skin, and bacteria from the feces cause the urine to break down into agents which worsen the irritation. In the moist, warm environment of the diaper, bacteria and fungi also develop. They multiply chiefly in the folds of the skin and create lesions which look like shiny red patches, sometimes covered with a whitish discharge.

How  can  diaper rash  be prevented ?

• The baby’s skin should be washed with a mild soap and dried carefully in order not to damage it further.
• It is advisable to make frequent use of a fragrance-free skin cream or protective lotion.
• Special “night diapers,” which absorb more, should be used.
• Diapers should be changed as frequently as possible, even every hour, if necessary.
• The affected skin should be carefully washed and dried every time the diaper is changed.
• It is advisable to use thick, fragrance-free sterile wipes in order to avoid allergic reactions.
• If the weather is suitable, the baby can be left without a diaper for short periods of time.
• If the rash does not go away within a few days in spite of all the above precautions, consult your doctor about the advisability of using a fungicide or an anti-inflammatory preparation (steroids).

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