7 Amazing Home Remedies To Treat Diaper Rash In Babies

Has your little munchkin become cranky of late and is showing signs of irritation particularly during diaper changes? Look closely at the diaper region to check for any rashes.

Did you spot it?

Well, it’s time to act real fast if you want to get that cute, toothless smile back on your little one’s face.

Bouts of diaper rash are very common in babies. If left unattended, it can slowly take the shape of bacterial and yeast infections. The signs of a diaper rash are inflamed skin, redness, tiny pimples, and sometimes even blisters in the diaper region, including the genital area, upper thighs, and buttocks.

What Causes Diaper Rash?

Prolonged exposure to a diaper soaked in urine or soiled with stool can lead to inflammation and rash breakout in the sensitive diaper area. Inadequately laundered cloth diapers, food allergies, uncomfortably tight diapers, and digestion hiccups also cause diaper rashes.

Keep in mind that your baby needs a good amount of time with a bare bottom or with just a properly laundered and loosely tied cotton nappy. This will help the skin breathe and release moisture effectively. Healing is faster when the rash affected region is dry and friction-free for as long as possible.

There are some home remedies known to be effective in cases of the occurrence of a diaper rash that you can try to soothe your baby and promote healing.

Home Remedies That Can Heal a Diaper Rash

Check out this list of 10 tried and tested home remedies known to heal diaper rashes.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. In addition to its soothing and healing effects, coconut oil is rich in saturated fats to keep your baby’s sensitive skin soft and moisturised.

Wash the diaper area with warm water after every diaper change and gently pat it dry. Apply coconut oil on the rash and leave it on for it to work its magic.

Oatmeal Bath

Oatmeal has protein in abundance that helps keep the natural barrier of your baby’s delicate skin intact. It is also rich in saponins, which are compounds that help in removing dirt and oil from the pores. The anti-inflammatory property of oatmeal reduces inflammation and irritation and helps in restoring normalcy to the skin.

Add a teaspoon of whole oatmeal to your baby’s bath. Make your baby soak in this water for 10 to 15 minutes and pat dry.

Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly is a natural moisturiser with healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, it prevents the infection from worsening and restricts other microbes from finding a way to the delicate skin.

Wash your baby’s bottom with warm water and gently pat it dry to remove all moisture from the skin. Apply a thin film of petroleum jelly on the rash area and do this twice daily.

Baking Soda

Soda bi-carb or baking soda, as we commonly call it, can neutralise acids and balance the pH level of your baby’s skin. It is known to be effective against bacterial and fungal infections in the diaper area.

Mix two tablespoons of baking soda to warm water and mix it well. Use this mixture once daily to wash the area affected by the rash on your baby’s skin. Do not use a towel and allow the skin to dry naturally.

Epsom Salt

Magnesium sulphate, commonly known as Epsom salt, is known to have strong anti-inflammatory properties since it is rich in magnesium. It helps in healing the skin and curbing inflammation.

Mix half a cup of Epsom salt in a tub of warm water. Let your baby soak in this water for 10-15 minutes twice or thrice a week.

Cornstarch

Known to be a quick moisture-absorbent, cornstarch is effective in treating diaper rash. It reduces diaper friction and curbs the symptoms of a diaper rash.

Wash the baby’s bottom with lukewarm water and blot the skin gently with a soft washcloth. Allow the skin to completely dry naturally and then lightly shower cornstarch on the skin before making your little one wear a fresh diaper. Repeat every time you change the diaper till the rash fades away.

Apple Cider Vinegar

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant with antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. This makes it effective in healing diaper rashes.

Mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of warm water. Dip a piece of clean cloth in this solution and use this home remedy once or twice daily to wipe your baby’s bottom till the symptoms subside.

Wrapping It Up

Often, the best remedies for common problems lie at home while we run helter-skelter hunting for professional help or over-the-counter formulations. Next time you notice any signs of a diaper rash, try some of these home remedies.

Trust us, you will love the way your little one’s delicate skin naturally heals without having to resort to needless medications.

In case the rash is severe, it is always best to consult your paediatrician and start the medication  advised by them without any delay.

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