Diaper rash is a localised inflammation of the skin on your baby’s bottom. It can be caused by prolonged contact with wet nappies and poo. It can also be due to several factors including yeast infections or simply irritation on the skin as a result of the diaper material. Baby’s skin is very sensitive, make sure you don’t use any harsh substance on it. Changing your baby’s nappy when its wet or they have done poo is very important equally cleaning the baby’s bottom properly and make sure its properly dry. The following home remedies would definitely help your baby get rid of the rashes and bring healing to your baby’s skin.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil treats diaper rashes miraculously. It is not only a natural moisturizer that nourishes and soothes the baby’s skin it also has antimicrobial properties. Wait.…What does coconut oil and breast milk have in common? Lauric acid! On a side note a breastfeeding mother can express breastmilk in an container and massage onto the rash affected area. Lauric acid is very effective in treating bacterial and fungal problems. Unrefined Organic cold pressed coconut oil is the best one to use.
How to use it?
Massage a small quantity of coconut oil on to the rash area and leave it. It will not only heal the rashes but also prevent them by keeping the area moisture free. Make sure when you apply the oil, the surface is clean and dry.
Diaper rash cream
You will need:
• 1/2 cup of coconut oil
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1 teaspoon arrowroot powder
• A few drops of any essential oil like tea tree oil.
Mix these ingredients to make a paste. Make sure it is just the right consistency and not too liquid.
Apply this cream on the rash area after changing the diaper.
2. Tea Tree Oil
It is a known disinfectant and has widely been used to treat conditions like acne and diaper rash. Just like coconut oil it also has antimicrobial properties and is particularly more effective in treating the rash caused by fungus.
This is a must have for all the moms out there!
How to use it?
1. Make a solution by adding 5 drops of tea tree oil in half cup water.
2. Put it in a spray bottle.
3. Spray the area after changing the diaper and let it dry.
Note: Never use undiluted tea tree oil as it can cause burn! Always dilute it with water.
3. Aloe Vera Gel
It has anti-Inflammatory properties that make it very suitable to treat diaper rash. It contains B-Sitosterol that fights infections. The best thing about it is that it is very light and gets easily absorbed in the skin. It allows the skin to breathe while it works its magic. It is a simple and an inexpensive way to treat rashes and you should definitely try this.
How to use it?
Apply the fresh aloe Vera gel on the rash area few times a day and allow it to dry. Make sure the gel is dry before you put on the diaper.
Try using fresh gel rather than the bottled one available in the market.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is made by crushing apples and its healing properties are due to acetic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotic and enzymes. In its Diluted form it can be used in the battle against diaper rash because of its anti-microbial properties.
How to use this?
1. Dilute one teaspoon of Apple cider vinegar with half cup water.
2. Soak a clean cloth with the solution and lightly pat at the baby’s rash area.
DON’T use this on severe rashes as it may sting!
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda is chemically sodium bicarbonate. It is alkaline in nature and the basic purpose of using it is to neutralize the acidity making the conditions unfavorable for microorganisms. It has proved to be effective in treating nappy rashes.
How to use this?
1. Add two table spoons of baking soda in the bath tub and let your baby sit in this water for 10 minutes.
2. Rinse the baby’s body with clean water.
3. Then Dry the baby by patting gently with a towel and apply coconut oil or olive oil on the rash area to keep it moisture free.
4. Mix a small quantity of baking soda with aloe Vera gel to make a paste. Use this as a spot treatment.
6. Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains saponin and protein that helps in the healing process. Oatmeal bath is a simple and easy way to soothe the baby’s bum.
You can use it in two ways:
• Oatmeal bath
Soak one tablespoon of oatmeal in the bath tub and let your baby in for about 20 minutes. You can also add a tablespoon of baking soda in the tub.
• Oatmeal paste
Make an oatmeal paste by grinding it with coconut oil and apply it on the rash area for a soothing effect.
7. Let Your Baby’s Bum Breathe
It is very important to give your baby a diaper break. Not only will it keep the baby’s skin dry and moisture free but will also make your baby the happiest! Whenever possible leave your baby on a towel on the floor that is easily cleanable. You can also take your baby out in a lawn and let him play diaper free allowing his bum to get some air.
These are the most easiest and inexpensive ways to treat nappy rashes. Please note that the above mentioned substances should not be used if your baby is allergic to any. If you notice any swelling, wheezing, coughing or breathing problem please discontinue the use.
All these methods are tested and thus will definitely help you in treating your baby’s condition. These might require you to be patient because rashes will take their time to go away completely. Along with these home remedies, try changing your baby’s diaper brand and see if the rash is due to a specific nappy. Also make sure you change the diaper frequently so that the urine-skin exposure time is less.