Mother & Baby

Nappy Rash

Nappy Rash

Nappy rash is exactly what it sounds like… a rash in the nappy area! Mostly affecting children under the age of 2 if they’re (funnily enough) wearing a nappy, it’s usually caused by irritation from  a wet or dirty nappy.

Did You Know

Prevalence

Nappy rash is most common in children under 2.

Common Cause

Urine is usually sterile, but it’s what normally causes nappy rash because it’s irritating to baby’s sensitive skin. 

Signs

Nappy rash generally looks red and spotty, like a normal (adult) rash.

Prevention

For best results, apply nappy rash cream between each nappy change, even if there’s no visible rash.

FAQs

What causes nappy rash?

Nappy rash is usually caused by skin irritation thanks to wetness in the nappy, or even things like bacteria, yeast, soap, detergent or baby wipes. If your bub has skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, they might be more prone to nappy rash.

Can formula cause nappy rash?

Changing your baby’s formula can sometimes cause nappy rash, which sometimes lasts only a few days as their body adjusts to the new ingredients. If the nappy rash continues, they might have an allergy or sensitivity to the formula. 

Can teething cause nappy rash?

Teething doesn’t directly cause nappy rash, but it can have an effect on whether your baby develops nappy rash. For example, if they’re teething and have teething-induced diarrhoea, the excessive wetness and irritation in the nappy can cause nappy rash.

How long for nappy rash to clear?

If you follow the right advice, nappy rash can clear in a few days. Try Dermal Therapy’s Little Bodies Nappy Balm, which offers the first protection and repair solution for your baby’s delicate skin, including 15.4% Zinc Oxide for protection and 5% Panthenol to soothe and repair.

Is nappy rash painful for babies?

Just like chafing and rashes for adults, nappy rash can be irritating and uncomfortable for babies. Most cases should be painless, but severe nappy rash can be painful, like when the rash doesn’t clear within a week, develops blisters, or if bub has a fever as well.

Can nappy rash spread?

Nappy rash can spread to your baby’s tummy or back.

 

More related articles

Breastfeeding Awareness Week

Mother & Baby

Breastfeeding Awareness Week

August 1-7th is World Breastfeeding Week, a week to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and supporting mothers to breastfeed for as long as they choose.

Navigating Life with Heart: Lleyton and Lilian's journey of strength and resilience through congenital heart conditions

Mother & Baby

Navigating Life with Heart: Lleyton and Lilian's journey of strength and resilience through congenital heart conditions

A family's journey of resilience and hope through congenital heart conditions. From Lleyton’s battle with Tetralogy of Fallot to managing Long QT Syndrome with his sister Lilian, discover how Heart Kids NZ supported them.