Nappy rash factsheet
Introduction
Nappy rash is a common skin issue in babies and children who wear nappies or other products that catch wee and poo. It is also called irritant diaper dermatitis.
It causes red, sore skin around the bottom, penis or vulva. When wee and poo stay on the skin too long, the moisture can break down the top layer and irritate deeper layers. This leads to pain, redness, cracks and sometimes infection.
Change your child’s nappy regularly, and as soon as possible after a poo.
Some children have sensitive skin and may still get nappy rash even with regular nappy changes and care.
Signs and symptoms
Nappy rash affects the skin on the bottom, penis, and vulva.
The skin may be:
- red
- puffy
- shiny looking and hard to apply cream to
- cracked and bleeding
- crusted
- blistered
- covered in small, infected pimples called candida, or yeast infection.
Your child will probably be in pain and might be more upset than usual when they have their bottom wiped or their nappy changed.
Diagnosis
You can usually see nappy rash. It does not need to be diagnosed by a doctor.
See your local doctor if your child develops severe or infected nappy rash and:
- develops a fever
- has nappy rash that has not cleared up after a week
- develops scabs, blisters, or bleeding
- is otherwise distressed and in pain that cannot be managed.
Some foods, medicines, stages of growth, and illnesses can make nappy rash more likely. Speak to your doctor if you have concerns.
Treatment
It is better to try and prevent nappy rash from developing.
You can prevent, treat, and manage nappy rash by:
- giving your child plenty of nappy-free time at home
- gently cleaning the skin with a wet washer or sensitive wipes
- changing dirty nappies as soon as you notice them
- washing cloth nappies using the manufacturer’s instructions and the hottest cycle
- regularly checking whether nappies and wipes are causing irritation
- avoiding any plastic nappy covers or pants
- using a protective barrier or nappy cream.
Barrier creams make a layer between your child’s skin and the nappy. They help stop rashes and soothe skin while it heals.
Apply a thick layer of cream around your child’s bottom, penis or vulva every time you change their nappy.