There are many causes of nappy rash, the
most common being:
prolonged contact with urine or faeces -
when urine comes into contact with
faeces, it results in the formation of
ammonia (yes, the same thing that is
used in some cleaning products) and this
irritates the baby's sensitive skin;
reaction to the chemicals (including
perfumes) in the laundry detergent,
nappy soak or baby wipes - all babies
have very sensitive skins which are in
contact with the nappies and wiped with
the baby wipes;
teething or
weaning can cause changes in the composition of the urine
making it more acidic - when a baby is teething its saliva
tends to be more alkaline and so the stomach produces more
acid to compensate; when the baby is weaning some foods may
produce a more acidic urine;
perhaps ironically, nappy rash can also result from
keeping your baby's bottom too clean - while good hygiene is
essential, whenever your baby's skin is wiped clean the
natural skin oils and beneficial bacteria are wiped away;
in some cases where the rash is particularly persistent, it
may be thrush which is a fungal infection.
So what can be done? The following should not be taken as a
complete list or the only things that can be done. As the
parent, you know what is best for your child so the
following is offered as a guide.
Even though modern disposable nappies are very absorbent,
they should not be left on when they have been soiled
whether with poo or wee.
If you are using cloth nappies, you can try putting a liner
on the inside of the nappy to help draw the moisture away
from the skin. Disposable liners can be bought in
supermarkets or a cheap reusable alternative is to buy a
length of fleecy material and cut it into rectangles to fit
between your baby's bottom and the nappy.
Increase the amount of nappy-free time. Fresh air helps keep
the skin dry. You might choose to make nappy free time for a
while after each nappy change.
Try a different laundry detergent or nappy soak. Use those
without perfumes. Try different baby wipes - in particular,
don't use adult hand-wipes on your baby as these frequently
have alcohol which is not good for sensitive skins.
Use different (unscented) bath products or even just water.
Little babies do not need a lot of cleaning;
If you are using cloth nappies with waterproof overpants,
ensure that the overpants are breathable as these allow the
air to circulate.
Use a nappy cream on the baby's skin to provide a barrier to
help keep urine away from the skin.
Every baby is different - some seem to get nappy rash very
easily and others don't - so there is no single solution
that will work all the time for all babies. Having said
that, one of the best products I have found for clearing up
nappy rash is Simmon's Paw Paw Salve. It is all natural and
contains no petrochemicals which is important to me. Putting
a little on the affected area has it cleared up in no time.
And it is soothing on the baby's skin. Paw Paw has so many
health benefits it's not surprising that it can be used for
this. Of course, this should not be taken as medical advice
and if symptoms persist you should consult your health care
professional.
The papaw (also known as paw paw, or papaya) has been called
"The Most Wonderful tree in the World" and numerous health
benefits are attributed to consuming the delicious fruit it
produces. However, the fruit can also be used in salves or
creams and applied to the skin for the relief of many
conditions. Simmons Paw Paw Salve is made from fresh
fermented paw paw which contains papain an enzyme that helps
clean wounds. It may be used for the relief of: nappy rash,
cracked nipples, dry skin, cuts, abrasions, gravel rash,
chafing, heat rash, mosquito bites, open wounds, and insect
stings. Once you start using it you will discover even more
uses.
Find out more at
http://www.tendernest.com.au/pawpaw
