Baby Rash Cures

Diaper rashes are a common occurrence with babies and form for many reasons. Irritants like soap, wipes and materials in diapers can cause your baby to develop a rash. Also, if a baby is not changed often and cleaned, a diaper rash can form. Rashes form along a baby's bottom and groin area causing the skin to become red, warm and irritated. Once a rash forms, there are things you can do to help heal the rash. Some of these tips are a great way to help prevent a rash from forming as well.

Air Out A Baby's Bottom

• Diapers help trap moisture from urine and sweat on a baby's bottom. Over time this moisture sits on the baby's skin causing a rash to form. Change the diaper often when you notice that your baby is wet or has a dirty diaper. Before putting on a clean diaper, gently clean your baby's bottom and let it air out for five minutes. Babies can't control their bodily functions so it's important to place a water proof pad down. Turn your baby on his tummy so that air can reach his bottom, drying any remaining moisture.

Petroleum Jelly

• One of the best treatments for a diaper rash is petroleum jelly. Petroleum jelly acts like a barrier against moisture making it harder for moisture to stick to the skin. Apply a light coat of petroleum jelly along your baby's bottom and in between the legs along the groin area before putting her diaper back on. The petroleum jelly will soothe her skin and helps keep urine off the skin.

Irritants

• A baby's skin is often sensitive and sometimes soaps can irritate the skin even more. If your baby has a rash that won't go away, try switching to a more hypoallergenic soap. Use wipes for sensitive skin and switch to diapers that allow air to flow through. Medications with zinc-oxide, like Desitin, help protect against moisture and soothe the irritation from the rash. If the rash hasn't cleared up in a week of following these tips, seek advice from your baby's pediatrician.