Nappy rash

Nappy rash
Nappy rash can be caused by a number of reasons. Research by the University of Bristol has shown there is no significant difference between the frequency of nappy rash when using disposables or cloth nappies. Causes of your baby's rash may include:

Prolonged contact with poo and wee - irritation due to the ammonia produced when wee reacts with the bacteria in poo
Weaning - some strong foods may cause acidic urine and irritation
Teething - when a baby dribbles, the excess alkaline saliva produced causes an overproduction of stomach acid in an attempt to neutralise it
Chemicals - either a reaction to washing powder build up within the nappy or a reaction to chemicals or perfumes in disposable nappies, wipes or bath products

If a rash occurs try:
- Changing nappies more frequently and immediately after a poo
- Ensuring the skin is completely dry after washing the area
- Increasing/implementing nappy free time
- Using a fleece or polyester liner to keep the skin dry
- Using silk or silver liners (both of which have healing properties)
- Using chamomile impregnated paper liners
- Offering more fluids to your baby to dilute the wee
- Washing the nappy area using water and cotton wool or washable wipes rather than wet wipes
- Using milder bath products or plain water
- Using a thin layer of a nappy/barrier cream or Vaseline until the rash clears up
- Using a cloth soaked in cold camomile and honey tea within the nappy
- Performing an extra rinse at the end of your washing cycle to ensure all detergent has been removed
- Performing 1-2 washes with no detergent to remove any build up in the nappy
- Using a milder washing detergent
- Using a different nappy soak if wet pailing
- Using a breathable PUL outer wrap to allow air circulation
- Using a wool or fleece wrap at night to allow evaporation of moisture

If the rash is persistent or has small spots, blisters or broken/bleeding skin it may be caused by thrush - a fungal infection. If the rash persists contact your GP who will prescribe treatment. If the first remedy does not work - return and ask for an alternative.


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