Nappy dermatitis - cause and treatment of sore baby bottom
Dr. Anja Loose-Roland
Updated on 02. November 2023
A sore bottom or pimples often occur in babies and toddlers wearing nappies. Two thirds of all children of nappy age suffer from nappy dermatitis at least once during this period. For parents, the question then arises as to what helps quickly with nappy dermatitis.
Diaper rash Brief overview:
- Causes: Changing nappies too infrequently
- Symptoms: Flat reddening
- Prevention: Changing the nappy regularly
- Treatment: Dry skin well
How do I recognise nappy rash?
The symptoms of nappy dermatitis are varied. A sore bottom hurts the children and is evident in their behaviour. That is why they are often whiny, don't like to move and sleep badly. A sore bottom often manifests itself in toddlers when they are changed:
- Extensive redness
- Swollen and sore areas on the bottom
- Redness and open areas in the anal or genital area
- Pustules and pimples that can ooze
- Pain and itching
- Burning during urination and bowel movements
- Ring-shaped, white and scaly patches of skin
- Distinct smell of ammonia
All symptoms do not always occur at the same time. The formation of scales and weeping areas usually only appears in the course of the disease. In the case of nappy dermatitis, this indicates a fungus, the so-called nappy thrush.
What are the causes of napkin dermatitis?
There are many causes for the outbreak of nappy dermatitis. Many parents suspect an intolerance of the nappies or nappy eczema behind it. However, this only occurs in rare cases.
What causes nappy dermatitis?
Nappy rash is very uncomfortable for the babies affected, so it is helpful to find the cause and stop it. These symptoms can be caused by many different reasons. The main cause is predominantly changing nappies too infrequently. Harmful ammonia is produced from the urine, which softens the skin. Friction, fungi or bacteria cause the sensitive skin to become sore. The following problems favour the development of nappy dermatitis:
- Diarrhoea
- Insufficient cleaning or drying of the buttocks
- Too much cleaning with aggressive detergents
- Use of wet wipes
- Acidic or spicy foods
- Cold or teething
What is the treatment for napkin dermatitis?
A sore bottom in babies or young children should be treated immediately before the condition spreads further. Nappy rash is associated with itching and pain for babies, from which children should be relieved quickly. The most important measures focus on letting the skin dry well. This is done by:
- Changing nappies quickly after bowel movements.
- Carefully pat the bottom area and the skin folds dry
- Do not use wet wipes or oil
- Allow air and light to reach the skin in the bottom area.
- Use breathable nappies
- Use a silk liner in the nappy
Which products can be used to treat nappy dermatitis?
For nappy dermatitis, ointment based on dexpanthenol can contribute to wound healing. The active ingredient promotes the formation of new skin cells. A proven remedy for the treatment of napkin dermatitis is zinc ointment. This product shields the skin from moisture and speeds up healing. For many sore spots, the use of cortisone ointment is recommended. However, this should not be used on babies and young children without consulting a doctor.
What home remedies help with nappy rash?
For nappy dermatitis, home remedies can relieve the discomfort and support healing. Classic products that are used for injuries have proven to be effective. Suitable home remedies for the healing of nappy dermatitis are:
- Healing wool absorbs moisture and cares for irritated and stressed skin due to lanolin.
- Tannins from black tea soothe itching and act against inflammation.
- [Witch hazel water]() is effective against inflammation and reduces skin irritation and redness. A product without alcohol should be used, otherwise the hydrolate may burn when applied.
- Chamomile tea inhibits inflammation and promotes wound healing
Do I have to take my child to the doctor for nappy rash?
If skin changes occur over a larger area, conspicuously and inexplicably, a paediatrician should be consulted. This also applies to severe or long-lasting inflammations. If an infestation with fungi or bacteria is suspected, the necessary medication must be prescribed by a medical professional.
How can I prevent nappy rash?
Sore bottoms can be prevented with the right care for babies' skin. Targeted measures such as:
- Changing nappies regularly: Babies should be given a fresh nappy after two hours at the latest. For toddlers, the interval should be increased to three to four hours.
- Diapering children after bowel movements: Children need a fresh nappy after a bowel movement. This also applies if the child has only just received fresh nappies.
- Dry the skin: After washing, dry the skin thoroughly with a towel. The folds of the skin should also be taken care of.
- Do not use wet wipes for cleaning: Washcloths or cotton wool should be used instead of wet wipes. The bottom of diapered children is cleaned only with pure water or oil instead of soap.
- Early treatment: If the skin is slightly red, it should be prevented from getting worse. Products containing tannins, such as black tea or hamamelis extract, can be used for cleansing. Afterwards, the reddened areas are protected from moisture by a zinc ointment.
- Air and light: If babies and toddlers regularly move around with their bottoms bare, the lower layers of the skin will also dry. This is best done when the baby has just had a bowel movement and the bottom has been cleaned.
In summer, it is easy to let babies kick or crawl without a nappy for a change. A cloth made of molton or an old towel protects the crawling blanket. In winter, a child can quickly get cold without a nappy and clothes. A pair of tights with a hole at the bottom warms the little legs, but allows air to reach the bottom.
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