It is quite common to notice redness on a baby's buttocks. Although they are often harmless, they can be sources of discomfort and itching. Some simple daily actions can help prevent diaper rash. How can you avoid redness on the infant's bottom? Here are the keys.
How to prevent baby's diaper rash?
Summary
Published on April 11, 2024, updated on April 11, 2024, by Pauline, Chemical Engineer — 5 min of reading
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How does infant diaper rash present itself?
Red buttocks are among the most common skin discomforts in babies. Generally benign, these irritations are nevertheless a source of concern for parents. They are characterized by the presence of itchy red patches on the buttocks and inner thighs of the infant. Some simple actions can soothe the baby's skin within a few days. However, if the inflammation persists, it is essential to consult a pediatrician to prevent any infection.
Redness on the buttocks is a sign of dryness in the sensitive skin of your baby. Often caused by contact with a substance that is not tolerated and friction, thediaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, can also follow prolonged exposure to the moist environment of the diaper. Indeed, this environment is conducive to bacterial and fungal colonization, phenomena that exacerbate irritations and prolong redness.
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Preventing baby's diaper rash: practices to adopt.
A good hygiene is essential for the prevention of diaper rash, but also to prevent its worsening.
To preserve your baby's comfort and prevent diaper rash, it is imperative to keep their buttocks clean and dry as much as possible. This includes regularly changing their diapers so they don't wear a soiled one for a long time. Pediatricians also agree that it is better to use disposable, super-absorbent, and breathable diapers rather than cloth diapers to prevent diaper rash.
Furthermore, just like adults, babies need to be washed every day. For this, favor gentle products and soaps, free of fragrances, alcohol derivatives, and essential oils, compounds that can be irritating and cause redness, itching, and skin dryness. Also, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before bathing your child or giving them a bath. Lastly, it is recommended to clean a baby's buttocks from front to back and to dry by lightly patting to avoid irritating the skin.
After bathing your child, we recommend thoroughly moisturizing their skin. You can choose to use a vegetable oil, such as camelina oil or grape seed oil, known for their nourishing properties and suitability for infants. It is also possible to use a balm, milk, or a rich moisturizing cream like our replenishing balm. Suitable for the whole family, this care product formulated for dry to very dry skin provides continuous hydration for 24 hours. Concentrated in replenishing and soothing active ingredients, it nourishes the skin, restores its hydrolipidic film, and rebalances the skin's microbiota.
Finally, to prevent diaper rash, it is advisable to avoid dressing your child in irritating and overly tight fabrics. The loose clothing made from soft and flexible materials like linen or cotton reduces friction, and consequently, redness.
Do not feel guilty if, despite all your efforts, your baby suffers from redness on the buttocks. This condition is very common and can easily be treated by a pediatrician.
Sources
KANTI V. & BLUME-PEYTAVI U. Prevention and treatment of diaper dermatitis. Pediatric Dermatology (2018).
MICETIC-TURK D. & al. Diagnosis and management of diaper dermatitis in infants with a focus on skin microbiota in the diaper area. International Journal of Dermatology (2018).
CICCONE A. & VARBANOV M. Diaper Rash, Advice and Treatments. Pharmaceutical News (2020).
