As a new parent, you want to do everything you can to ensure the comfort and health of your newborn. One of the most common issues that newborns face is diaper rash, which can cause discomfort and irritability. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about preventing diaper rash in your newborn.
Rashes are caused mostly because of wetness + friction on baby’s skin. Sometimes it can be because the diaper isn’t soft enough. In my experience most of the diapers are ok. Some are softer than others. The important bit is to make sure that the wetness + friction doesn’t happen. So for this there are some things I do.
- Reduce friction by reducing wipes. Try to use tap water to wash off the bum instead of wipes, when you are at home. The wiping action can be very irritating for baby’s bum. Water is actually the quickest way to get baby clean.
- Then wipe thoroughly with a towel and use baby powder around the bum area (not vaginal area). I use the mother sparsh talc free powder. I just sprinkle a bit and dust away so that the bum is absolutely dry.
- Then I use a diaper rash cream like siloderm mixi or b4 nappi. I make sure that it’s massaged well into the skin. For B4 Nappi you can leave a white coating on the bum.
- Barrier Cream is something that acts like a barrier between the baby’s bum and moisture. It’s important when you leave baby overnight in diapers etc. It reduces the contact between liquid and your baby’s bum and hence, reduces possibility of rash. For natural option you can go for coconut oil, otherwise Aquaphor is very good. B4 nappi is a diaper cream + barrier cream in one.
- Good-fitting diapers. This is different for each baby. Try to size up as soon as you can. So for example if your baby is 9 kg, then go for large instead of medium because large starts from 9kg, even if medium still accepts 9kg.
- Ample diaper free time, at least 30 min a day, keep them on a dry sheet n let the bum air out for a bit.
Natural remedies for diaper rash
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help moisturize and soothe irritated skin. Apply a small amount to your baby’s diaper area as needed.
- Oatmeal baths: Adding oatmeal to your baby’s bath can help soothe their skin and reduce inflammation. Make sure to use colloidal oatmeal, which is finely ground.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a great option for soothing diaper rash. Apply a small amount to your baby’s diaper area as needed.
Preventing diaper rash in your newborn is all about keeping the area clean, dry, and irritation-free. By choosing the right diaper, changing them frequently, and using natural remedies when necessary, you can help keep your baby’s skin healthy and comfortable. If you do notice signs of diaper rash, don’t hesitate to seek medical treatment – your pediatrician can help you find the best course of action to soothe your baby’s skin.
