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Everything you need to know about Nappy Rash

During the time your baby wears nappies, there is always a possibility that a nappy rash will occur.

The Causes:

• Your young baby’s skin is thin and delicate. Lengthy exposure of the developing epidermal layer to the ammonia produced by the urine and stools is compounded by the nappy which aggravates the situation.
• Most products on the market like washing powders, soaps, bath creams and even certain nappy brands contain chemicals and undesirable preservatives. (do check all labels)
• Baby wipes can contain perfumes, unnatural ingredients etc.
• A breastfeeding mother eating or drinking foods that are high in acidity will cause acidic residue in her breast milk.
• When baby is teething, has diarrhoea or is unwell, his motions can become more acidic.

The Signs:

• Baby’s bottom will become very inflamed, with possible spots/pimples and will be hot to the touch.
• The skin may even become raw and in bad cases the skin will be damaged by blisters.
• Eczema & dry patches will require very urgent treatment.  Skin sensitive and effective ingredients which are found in Eli and You Baby Product Range will quickly soothe and restore baby’s bottom.

Measures to prevent a nappy rash:

• Wet and soiled nappies should be removed immediately. Very young babies require changing 9 to 12 times a day, while older babies should be changed up to 7-9 times.
• The entire nappy area should be gently and thoroughly cleaned using slightly warm water, ensuring the wiping is from the front to the back. If baby wipes are used make sure they are free of any chemicals, perfume or preservatives.
• Lay your baby on a soft towel leaving the nappy off for as long as possible. The fresh air will dry baby’s skin. Do this as often as you are able to.
• Once the nappy area has been cleaned and aired, apply a pure natural barrier balm which covers the entire area such as Eli & You Baby Barrier Balm, which will protect the skin from infection. When using towelling or cloth nappies, always ensure they have been washed and rinsed very well.

Treatment for nappy rash:

• Mild nappy rash will become infected by bacteria or fungus if you do not treat it immediately.
• If the rash becomes bright red with white or red pimples spreading to the folds of skin, bottom and tummy, it may be a thrush infection known as Candida. In this case it would be best to seek professional advice.
• Clean damaged skin very gently by dabbing the area with soft cotton balls moistened with pure salt water or a saline solution. Rather run warm water over the affected skin area, and do not wipe in cases of severe nappy rash.
• Your baby will be experiencing severe pain, so reducing his stress will help greatly and alleviate some discomfort.
• Lay baby on a towel after cleansing and let the sunlight fall on the affected area for a few minutes several times a day before 10a.m. or after 3p.m.
• Cover the affected area with a layer of nappy rash salve and a layer of Eli & You Baby Barrier Balm over this for added protection. Now put a clean, dry nappy on your baby.
• If using cloth or towelling nappies, it is imperative that you change baby as soon as he/she is wet so that the nappy area is always kept dry.
• If disposables are used make sure a quality product is used that has optimum effectiveness in absorbing all moisture ensuring that the nappy area is dry. Continue to be diligent in monitoring the condition of the nappy so that the dry state is maintained.