1.  Naked Time and Diaper Changes:  One of the best ways to treat/avoid diaper rash -allow the baby some naked time.  Clean the diaper area then let them air dry for a bit.  Also be sure to change the diaper on a regular basis. 

2.   Barriers:  These topical treatments create a protective barrier on the skin. They can also be soothing to the irritated skin. These treatments include zinc oxide (this is the same stuff lifeguards wear on their noses but a different strength), lanolin and vitamin A&D ointment.   Creams are often less messy but ointments create a better protective coating.  These can be used with each diaper change.

3.  Antifungals:  These are used when the baby has a yeast infection.  Yeast happens often enough because the moist, warm diaper area creates a perfect environment for yeast to grow.  Clotrimazole, miconazole and nystatin are common topical antifungals.  These should be applied two to three times a day.

4. Topical Steroids: These should be used only for very severe diaper rash because topical steroids are absorbed more easily through baby skin.  OTC hydrocortisone 0.5% can be applied one to two times a day for less than 2 weeks.  If using topical steroids, be sure to increase baby naked time to decrease absorption.

5. Cholestyramine ointment: This is needed when the diaper rash will simply not go away.  You need a prescription and it needs to be compounded at the pharmacy.  Be sure to give the pharmacy some extra time to prepare the ointment -it is messy and difficult to mix. 

Just a note here:  Baby powder is often not helpful for keeping the area dry -the real secret here is to change the baby’s diaper often, clean and fully dry the area and naked time!  Just a note -if the diaper rash will not heal -it could be an allergic reaction to the diaper.

Please leave a comment about your baby and diaper rash -any home remedies??