Nappy rash

Nappy rash is the name given to the red rash, which sometimes appears on a baby in the area covered by a nappy. It is caused by irritation and sometimes by infection. The soreness can make the baby uncomfortable.

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The skin appears red, chapped and sometimes spotty.

Infected nappy rash may blister and release a yellow-coloured fluid, and should be treated to prevent it spreading or worsening.

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It is important to change the baby's nappy regularly, to minimise the chance of urine and faeces irritating the skin.

Use warm water rather than wipes to clean the skin and reduce irritation, making sure that the nappy area is completely clean and dry before a new nappy is put on. Pat with a towel, rather than rubbing, to dry skin. A barrier cream, such as zinc and castor oil cream, will protect the skin.

Cloth nappies should be washed using a non-biological washing powder, using an extra rinse where possible.

Make sure that the child is drinking plenty of fluids, as this will reduce the acidity of the urine.

Creams containing either a mild steroid or anti-fungal preparations may be prescribed for nappy rash that has become infected or for specific conditions that have caused the irritation. An antibiotic medicine may occasionally be needed for an infected rash.

Wherever possible, leave the baby without a nappy on, as the flow of air to the area will encourage healing.

Avoid talcum powder as it can cake badly and cause even more irritation.

An angry red rash that does not respond to treatment or spreads beyond the nappy area may be a fungal infection (Candida). You need an antifungal cream or may need an oral (taken by mouth) antifungal agent as it often starts in the mouth. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice.

No info NHSDEC07