Diaper Rash 101
From the different types of diaper rash to the best remedy and treatment, we’re sharing everything you need to know about diaper rash including your most frequently asked questions. Whether your child’s diaper rash is caused by teething (yes, that can happen), diarrhea or for an unknown reason, we’ll help you find relief for your baby fast (and we’ll also let you know when to call your doctor.)
First, let’s talk about why diaper rash happens.
Why does diaper rash occur?
Diaper rash is very common can can be caused by many things, including:
- Wet or Dirty Diapers – wet or dirty diapers left on the skin for too long can irritate baby’s skin, causing diaper rash.
- Diarrhea – while diarrhea doesn’t cause diaper rash specifically, it definitely plays a role. Frequent, watery stools can irritate baby’s bottom, especially if diapers aren’t changed quickly.
- Irritation – diapers that are too tight or too small can cause friction, which can lead to diaper rash.
- Allergic Reaction – if you recently changed laundry detergent or switched diapers, that could be causing irritation to baby’s skin.
- Food – changes in your baby’s diet can cause diarrhea, which can then cause diaper rash. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t try new foods with baby, simply to be on the lookout for diaper rash and treat it quickly.
- Teething – teething doesn’t cause diaper rash, but it can cause some kids to have diarrhea. And, as we said before, diarrhea can oftentimes lead to diaper rash.
Can diaper rash be prevented?
While you can’t always predict when your child is going to develop diaper rash, there are several things you can do to help prevent it.
- Change your baby’s diaper frequently. Sitting in wet or soiled diapers for too long is one of the leading causes of diaper rash.
- Use a diaper rash cream with every diaper change – even before a rash occurs. This is a great way to create a barrier between your baby’s skin and their diaper. We recommend Boogie Bottoms™ No-Rub Diaper Rash Spray. Boogie Bottoms™ is a creamy, soothing diaper rash cream designed to help treat and prevent diaper rash with no mess! Its spray-on application is fast and easy to use with one hand. Just spray and soothe. Click here to learn more.
- Allow baby’s bottom to dry completely before putting on a fresh diaper.
When to treat diaper rash
We recommend treating diaper rash before it begins by using Boogie Bottoms with every change. Simply shake and spray to coat baby’s bottom and start soothing. If you haven’t been using a diaper rash cream with each change, start using one at the first sign of diaper rash or irritation.
How to cure diaper rash fast
While we always encourage treating diaper rash before it begins, sometimes that’s not possible. If (or should we say when?) your child gets diaper rash, here’s how to cure it fast.
- Change diapers as soon as they become wet or soiled
- Apply Boogie Bottoms with every diaper change
- If possible, air out the bottom after every change
- Make sure not to secure diapers too tightly
- Diaper rash should go away within 2-3 days
When does diaper rash need a doctor?
While most cases of diaper rash can be treated at home, there are a few situations where you’ll want to call your pediatrician.
- Baby is 6 weeks old or younger
- Baby has a fever
- Rash spreads to the face, arms or scalp
- Small ulcers or pimples form
- Rash bleeds or oozes fluid
- Rash continues to get worse despite treatment at home
More Diaper Rash Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about your child’s diaper rash? You’re not alone. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions.
Will diaper rash make my baby fussy?
Most likely, yes! Diaper rash is irritating and can be painful for babies. The good news is your baby’s discomfort should ease as soon as you begin treatment.
Which diaper rash cream is best?
We don’t want to brag, but we’re pretty big fans of Boogie Bottoms. It contains 25% zinc oxide to quickly soothe baby’s skin and help protect against diaper rash. The revolutionary spray bottle means less rubbing and irritation to your baby’s bottom – and less mess on your hands. Click here to grab yours today.
Can diaper rash be a sign of teething?
Yes, there is a connection between teething and diaper rash. Teething can sometimes cause diarrhea or loose stools in babies – which can then lead to diaper rash.
Can diaper rash bleed?
Yes, diaper rash can sometimes bleed. Don’t panic! Baby will be just fine, but give your pediatrician a call as this may require prescription treatment.
Can diaper rash cause fever?
Diaper rash doesn’t typically come with a fever. If it does, call your pediatrician.
Can diaper rash spread?
Diaper rash can start to creep outside of the diaper area. The creep should stop within a couple days of treatment. While it can spread, it is not contagious. Reminder: if it spreads to the face, arms or scalp, make sure to call your pediatrician.
What diaper rash cream is best to use with cloth diapers?
Again, we’re going to go with Boogie Bottoms on this one. It’s quick and easy to coat baby’s bottom without leaving a mess on your hands. Learn more here.
Is diaper rash painful?
Yes, diaper rash can be painful and irritating to baby. That’s why you want to treat it quickly and even consider treating it before it occurs.
Is diaper rash itchy?
While diaper rash can be painful, irritating and uncomfortable, it typically is not itchy. If you think your baby is itchy, give your pediatrician a call as you may not be dealing with diaper rash.
Learn More about Boogie Bottoms
Boogie Bottoms is a revolutionary diaper rash cream in a spray bottle. Simple spray and soothe. Click here to learn more.
