The best defense is a good offense is a saying in sports, but it’s something every parent knows, especially when it comes to nappy rash. That red angry skin makes babies sore, unhappy, fussy and uncomfortable. As parents, we don’t like to see our children suffer and we also find it a challenge to deal with. And it can get pretty bad, blistering, spreading, even creating ulcers.
So the best way to combat this condition that at times seems inevitable is to think of acting before, during and after. That’s not as hard as it sounds. Check out our top tips for combating nappy rash the tactical way.
Change nappies as quickly as possible when wet or dirty
It’s obvious, but it’s also a challenge when we are busy, out, don’t realise they need it or during long stretches like night time or journeys when whipping off the old one just isn’t feasible. But a fresh nappy will contribute to healthier skin…and smells a lot better too!
Create a barrier between baby’s skin and the wee and poo
Urine is usually sterile (unless there is an infection) but when these substances rest against the skin, they irritate it. That’s just science. When you spread Bepanthen nappy care ointment on, you create a transparent, breathable layer that helps protect baby from irritants as well as the rubbing that can cause nappy rash. (Read reviews from real parents about using Bepanthen #sponsored)
Use barrier cream every time and before nappy rash starts
Once skin is irritated, you have to calm it down again, which takes time. By protecting baby’s skin while it’s still 100% healthy, and doing it at every nappy change, you start from a position of strength (and happiness!).
Avoid wet wipes with alcohol, fragrance and other additives
These can irritate sensitive, thin skin. (newborns’ skin is 40% thinner and also softer than adults, which makes it more sensitive to irritants, according to Bepanthen.) Using water only or pH-neutral soap is recommended, although wet wipes are a staple in our nappy bags. Also avoid talcum powder as it can be harmful if breathed in.
Use disposable nappies or use cloth ones without plastic pants over them
Disposables are better at keeping a dry layer next to baby’s skin and cloth nappies (without their plastic over pants) allow more breathability.
If you use cloth nappies, rinse them well and tumble dry
This will make sure they are clean and soft when you put them on.
Give baby nappy-free time every day
If you’re at home after a change, let your baby chill out on the playmat without a nappy or have post-bath cuddle-time before wrapping them up again. Letting air circulate and skin dry naturally helps keep it healthy.
If nappy rash gets bad, see your doctor
If the rash is severe, go to your GP. They may prescribe cream or medicine.
What are your suggestions for combatting nappy rash? Tell us tips and techniques that worked for you!
This post is sponsored by Bepanthen, which aims to protect baby’s skin from the causes of nappy rash.
About Bepanthen
Bepanthen nappy care ointment helps sensitive skin to repair its natural protective barrier while keeping it soft, smooth and moisturised. It is so gentle it can be used straight from birth and as often as required. It’s also free from fragrances, colours, preservatives and antiseptics. For more information visit www.bepanthen.co.uk/
More tried-and-tested advice and opinion from parents:
How to cope with sleep deprivation
Breastfeeding with babies and toddlers
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Using Bepanthen everyday has been a u-turn in nappy rash, no longer are we waiting to see what state her bum is in when she is teething, everyday there is a protective layer to prevent the rash from coming.
Bepanthen was definitely a game changer for us! I don’t know if nappy rash is worse for baby girls, but second time around with Penelope it flared up a lot in the early days! Bepanthen combined with nappy free time (in an empty bath with all her bath toys), really helped to give her skin the break it needed to rebalance.
I now use Bepanthen religiously to protect against nappy rash, and I’m no longer worried about the state of my little girl’s skin when she is teething! I also ensure I use water only wipes and have at least 10 minutes nappy free time daily.