Patient's question:
A six-month-old baby has developed small red rashes on their buttocks (with a ring of about 2 centimeters around the anus). Every day, they have been washed and then applied with diaper cream and Longzhu soft cream, but it hasn't improved in the past five or six days. What should be done? Thank you.Doctor's answer:
Diaper rash is the most common skin problem in infants, an inflammation of the buttocks also known as diaper dermatitis. It often occurs in areas covered by wet diapers, including the external genitalia, perineum, buttocks, groin, and upper inner thighs, and even near the anus. The affected skin develops red, spot-like rashes, which may be accompanied by exudate and erosion. Infants with diaper rash may exhibit fussiness, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping.The causes of diaper rash include:
Diaper rash is formed due to the friction between moist skin or prolonged exposure of normal skin to wet diapers. The urea in urine is broken down by bacteria to produce ammonia, which irritates the skin and causes dermatitis. Infants have delicate skin, making them more prone to diaper rash.
To prevent diaper rash, follow these steps:
1. Change diapers frequently and choose appropriate cloth diapers or high-quality disposable diapers, as this is one of the key factors in reducing diaper rash.
2. After bowel movements, clean the area thoroughly. After each diaper change, rinse the skin with warm water, dry it gently, and apply a thin layer of moisturizing cream. Avoid using soap during cleaning; do not use talcum powder after washing, as it may form clumps with urine and stool, irritating the skin.
3. Place a soft or thick cloth diaper pad under the diaper, with a plastic or oiled sheet underneath. Avoid direct contact between the plastic or oiled sheet and the skin, as they are airtight and hinder moisture absorption and evaporation, which are contributing factors to diaper rash.
4. Do not use adult laundry detergent or fabric softener to wash diapers, as this may cause skin allergies. Ensure the diapers are thoroughly cleaned. Clean diapers must be dried in the sun, as damp diapers can also lead to diaper rash.
5. If your baby has diaper rash and there is no peeling or ulceration, apply tannic acid ointment externally. If there is peeling or ulceration with exudate, apply zinc oxide ointment or zinc paste to absorb the exudate. If the following symptoms occur, consult a pediatrician:
- Blisters or pus on the affected skin
- The rash persists for more than two days without improvement or worsens.