Examples: if diapers are not changed often enough, if diapers are too tight
Diaper redness is skin irritation developing in diaper contact areas. Usually such skin irritation is associated with infants and young children, but we should remember that everyone using napkins in everyday life can suffer from it. Skin rash is making skin more sensitive to infections and irritation, that’s why it is so important to provide effective care and treatment for damaged skin areas.
Irritating and red toddler’s skin in diaper area and how to keep skin healthy
Skin irritation and inflammation in the nappy area is one of the most common problems in infancy, with an average of 7 to 35% of infants*.
Part of the reasons is the peculiarities of baby’s skin and its care.
- Infant skin is 20% – 30% thinner than adults’**.
- Skin in the nappy area has several creases and grooves.
- Skin often comes in contact with urine and faeces, and underneath there is a damp environment.
- For prolonged skin contact with moisture, the top layer of the cell (the epidermis) is dying and damaged*.
How to keep a baby’s skin in the nappy area intact***:
- When the baby does not wear diapers, wipe it with a towel or moisturizing diaper at the bottom – this will help keep the skin dry;
- Always make sure the diapers are not tucked too tight;
- When changing diapers, gently clean the baby’s skin with a soft cloth and lukewarm water.
If, however, the baby has diaper rash in the nappy area, visit a healthcare professional to recommend the most appropriate treatment and ointments to restore the baby’s skin.
* Kalnberza “Diaper dermatitis – still actual”. “Arsts.lv” 12/2017.
** Atherton DJ, Proksch E, Schauber J, Stalder JF. Irritant diaper dermatitis: best practice management. SelfCare. 2015; 6(S1):1–11.
*** Humphrey S, Bergman JN, Au S. Practical management strategies for diaper dermatitis. Skin therapy letter. 2006 Sep;11(7):1-6