The newborn’s skin is soft and delicate and his body functions can often make it sore and chapped. Sweat, dribbles, urine and stools need to be cleaned regularly, so washing and sponging become a very important part of the daily routine.

Nappy rash is one thing that most babies get during their infancy, only the degree of affliction varies.

Most of these rashes occur because of prolonged contact with nappies, soiled with urine or stools. The bacteria in the urine or the stool, causes ammonia and other skin irritants to form which eventually lead to rashes in babies.

A child suffering from diarrhoea can also end up getting a nappy rash because of constant irritation and repeated cleaning.

Treating nappy rash

Here are some ways to prevent a nappy rash from happening in the first place.

• Change your babies nappy frequently. Don’t leave your child unattended in a wet or dirty nappy as the moisture and bacteria acts fast on his delicate skin.

• Keep the baby’s bottom as dry as possible by keeping him off the nappy for as long as possible.

• Make sure to cleanse and dry his bottom and all the creases of skin thoroughly whenever you wash or bathe him.

• Use a protective layer of barrier cream during every nappy change. Alternatively one can also dust some baby powder.

With proper treatment nappy rashes usually get better within three days.

However, if they don’t respond, a yeast infection is likely. Characterized by bright red and raw rashes, it covers a large area and is surrounded by red dots.

The key to successful treatment is to keep the affected area dry and clean to help it heal fast.

To cleanse the skin, use warm tap water and a mild soap, rinse thoroughly and pat dry.