Natural treatments for diaper rash?

The natural solutions outlined below to soothe the diaper rash do not replace a treatment prescribed by a pediatrician or a general practitioner. They can only be used as a supplement.

The aloe vera gel, extracted from the plant of the Asphodelaceae family, is highly popular in skincare. Indeed, when applied topically, aloe vera gel is a good humectant, capable of retaining water in the stratum corneum. This property is linked to its richness in hygroscopic molecules and amino acids, such as histidine, serine, arginine, threonine, and glycine, which enhance water retention in the epidermis. Its bioactive compounds, like acemannan, also provide anti-inflammatory and healing properties that can alleviate redness and promote skin regeneration. Moreover, aloe vera gel possesses antimicrobial virtues, suggesting a potential role in preventing secondary infections that can complicate diaper rash.

Several studies have highlighted the benefits of aloe vera gel in soothing diaper rash. One such study involved 32 babies suffering from this condition. The progression of the skin inflammation was monitored by researchers over three days, and a significant improvement was recorded. These results, detailed further below, align with data from other studies, which have also demonstrated that aloe vera gel can be a useful ingredient for diaper rash.

Emollient and protective, the coconut oil can be beneficial for diaper rash due to its rich fatty acid composition, particularly lauric acid, known for its antimicrobial properties. By forming a veil on the skin's surface, similar to the naturally present hydrolipidic film, it helps to limit dehydration and to reduce the friction responsible for irritations. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also help soothe redness and skin discomfort. Moreover, some studies suggest that coconut oil has antifungal and antibacterial activity, which can help prevent secondary infections that could worsen the diaper rash.

Coconut oil has also been the subject of scientific studies to determine its effectiveness on 32 infants suffering from diaper rash. The progression of the inflammation was monitored by researchers over three days. The results, compiled in the table below, show a genuine soothing effect of coconut oil. This ingredient thus appears to be a reliable ally in cases of diaper rash.

With its soothing and protective qualities, shea butter is a beneficial compound for diaper rash. Indeed, its richness in fatty acids allows it to restore the weakened skin barrier and limit irritations caused by friction and moisture. Shea butter also has anti-inflammatory properties due to the cinnamic esters it contains, which allows it to help soothe redness and skin discomforts. Lastly, by forming a protective film on the skin, shea butter helps prevent maceration, a key factor in the worsening of diaper rash, while promoting the repair of the epidermis.

While the effect of shea butter alone on diaper rash has not been the subject of studies to date, a study was conducted using a barrier cream composed of shea butter, zinc oxide, and panthenol on 10 children with diaper rash. The degree of erythema was clinically evaluated on a 5-point severity scale (from 0 = no erythema to 4 = severe erythema), at the beginning of the study and 30 days later. After 30 days, a significant improvement in diaper rash was recorded, with an average score dropping from 3.2 ± 0.8 to 1.1 ± 0.9, without any side effects. It is difficult to conclude on the specific action of shea butter as it was combined with zinc oxide, a molecule known for its effectiveness against diaper rash. However, it can be assumed that it could be a potentially beneficial natural supplement, in support of traditional treatments.

Known for its soothing properties, breast milk has long been used to alleviate minor ailments in children, including diaper rash. It contains immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, compounds that help limit the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. Additionally, breast milk is rich in fatty acids that promote hydration and regeneration of the skin, while forming a light protective film to reduce friction. When applied directly to the affected areas, breast milk can help soothe the redness caused by diaper rash.

The effectiveness of breast milk on diaper rash was tested in a clinical study involving 62 infants. These infants were divided into two groups: breast milk was applied daily after each diaper change to half of the babies, while a barrier cream containing 20% zinc oxide was used on the other half. The rash was evaluated before and after seven days of treatment. The results, compiled in the table below, show a comparable, if not better effectiveness of breast milk compared to the barrier cream. It thus appears to be an interesting option for soothing diaper rashes.

The calendula oil macerate is one of the most renowned natural ingredients for relieving irritations. This compound works by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ) and the synthesis of prostaglandins. Calendula also reportedly reduces the level of nitric oxide (NO), a pro-inflammatory mediator produced by macrophages. Its emollient action also allows it to soften weakened skin and limit discomfort. By strengthening the skin barrier, the calendula oil macerate helps to better protect the skin from external aggressions, thus reducing the symptoms of diaper rash.

The effect of calendula was tested in a recent clinical trial involving 34 newborns with diaper rash. The degree of erythema was clinically evaluated on a 5-point severity scale (from 0 = no erythema to 4 = severe erythema) before and after application three times a day for ten days of a cream with 15% calendula extract. The table below summarizes the progression of the erythema and shows an interesting effect of this botanical extract, at least when incorporated into a formulation. These results suggest that calendula could be a good complementary solution for diaper rash, even though more work still needs to be done.

Valued for its calming properties, chamomile hydrosol appears to be a natural ally for soothing the skin in cases of diaper rash. Thanks to its richness in anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly in flavonoids and bisabolol, it may help to reduce redness and feelings of discomfort. Particularly suitable for sensitive skin, chamomile hydrosol could also be used to care for skin weakened by diaper rash.

A study examined the effects of chamomile on diaper rash in 60 infants, divided into two groups. Both groups received the same cream, except that the cream given to the babies in the second group contained 3% chamomile. After daily application for six days, diaper rash decreased by 48%, compared to 65% in the control group, but the difference was deemed non-significant by the research group. Therefore, more studies are needed to conclude on the effectiveness of chamomile hydrosol in cases of diaper rash.

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