We are so Excited to launch our interviews with Dr. Eyal Levit.
After an influx of questions concerning skin related issues we decided to go to the experts. Dr. Levit graciously agreed to talk about the top concerning skin problems occurring in babies.
During the month of November we will be posting new videos throughout the with Dr. Levit as he explains each skin concern and puts our worries to rest.
Today he is talking about Diaper Dermatitis also commonly known as Diaper Rash.
What is Diaper Dermatitis?
Diaper dermatitis is inflammation of the skin in the diaper area that appears as a patchwork of bright red skin. It’s a very common condition in babies and toddlers. Often relating to wet or infrequently changed diapers (contact with urine or feces), skin sensitivity, and/or chaffing.
What causes Diaper Dermatitis?
In most cases, diaper dermatitis is a type of contact dermatitis. That means the skin is inflamed from contact with certain substances like urine and feces which will irritate the skin.
Things that increase the risk of getting diaper dermatitis:
- You don't change your child's diapers often enough
- Your child has diarrhea or frequent bowel movements
- Your child is taking antibiotic medicines. Or you are taking antibiotics and you are breastfeeding.
How Can I Prevent Diaper Dermatitis?
Proper skin care is very important to prevent diaper dermatitis. This includes:
- Keeping the skin under a diaper clean and dry
- Changing diapers often
- Letting the skin under a diaper to air dry at times
- Letting your child to go without a diaper when possible
- Gently cleaning the diaper area with a soft cloth and warm water
- Limiting the use of soap or other strong products on the skin
- Not using scented wipes or wipes with alcohol
Diaper rash can alarm parents and annoy babies. But it usually clears up with simple at-home treatments, such as air drying, more frequent diaper changes and ointment.