All about nappy rash – Baby skin is sensitive and prone to nappy rashes due to excessive wetness. Follow this simple guide to treat and prevent your child's nappy rash.

A baby’s nappy rash is a region of irritated skin in the nappy area. It often appears as red, rough, bumpy areas of skin and can be either localised or spread out over a larger area. A nappy rash will likely cause your baby discomfort, especially if it is severe and accompanied with itchiness and pain. It is assumed that as many as one third of babies and toddlers suffer from nappy rash sometime. (Source: NHS England)

Most parents have had to deal with nappy rashes, as baby skin is particularly sensitive. Nappy rashes can be caused by moisture trapped for an extended period of time in the nappy area, for instance when there is too much time between diaper changes. Furthermore, poorly fitting diapers can cause or worsen a nappy rash since rubbing against your baby’s skin will irritate it. Some babies may be more susceptible to rashes than others. Just remember that the occasional nappy rash on your baby does not make you a bad parent!

To help heal your baby’s irritated skin due to nappy rash, you might apply a suitable ointment. The Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment helps to heal irritated skin and is suitable for the nappy area of babies. Another way to support the healing process is to try giving your child a little bit of “nappy free” time each day in order to reduce the contact time with diapers while ensuring a bit more comfort for you baby. If the rash does not seem to be improving, if you have questions, or if it might be caused by other reasons please consult your child’s paediatrician. Be cautious when using lotions or creams that are not specifically recommended for babies and children as they can worsen the rash even further.

You can help minimise the risk of nappy rashes by ensuring that your baby is always wearing a clean, dry nappy. As infants grow quickly, make sure to update the size of your baby’s nappies as needed as a proper fit can help reduce any rubbing. You can further help prevent nappy rashes by applying the Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment to the nappy area. The ointment creates a breathable protective film that prevents diaper rash and protects from soreness caused by sweat, faeces and urine. If you suspect that your baby’s rash is caused by an allergic reaction, or if you are uncertain, speak to your paediatrician immediately as it could be a symptom of a more serious allergy.