After the arrival of the baby, diapering becomes a central issue, and many new parents worry about this task. However, it quickly becomes part of the daily routine, as many diaper changes are needed, especially in the initial period when we change diapers 7-8 times a day.

The sensitive baby bottom is constantly in a warm, humid, wet environment thanks to the diaper. These conditions favor the proliferation of certain microorganisms, and the soaked skin is sensitive and easily damaged, so the area must be cleaned and cared for with great care to prevent irritation or even diaper rash.

Cleaning the area under the diaper

The ideal solution for cleaning the area under the diaper is washing with lukewarm water using plain tap water or perhaps a gentle natural cleanser. This can be easily done at home. After washing, thoroughly dry the skin with a soft towel, paying special attention to the folds!

However, there are situations, such as during travel, when washing with tap water is not possible. In such cases, using baby wipes can be a good solution. Choose wipes that do not contain artificial fragrances and preservatives, but rather natural ingredients and water, thus minimizing the chance of irritating your child's skin.

Caring for the Area Under the Diaper

We can use diaper cream 2-3 times a day or even at every diaper change. By choosing the right diaper cream, irritation can be avoided. It is important to choose a diaper cream that naturally protects and cares! 

What is the ideal diaper cream that provides protection for your child's skin?

Contains natural ingredients (plant oils, butters, extracts, essential oils).

Protects, meaning it contains ingredients capable of shielding the baby's skin from diaper contents (shea butter, lanolin).

Cares, meaning it includes ingredients that strengthen the skin's protective layer, have soothing and moisturizing properties (shea butter, panthenol, almond oil).

Regenerates, meaning it contains anti-inflammatory and healing ingredients (calendula oil, evening primrose oil).

Various essential oils (tea tree, lavender) are also often found in diaper creams, which further enhance the cream's effectiveness. 

How does diaper dermatitis develop and what are its symptoms?

In a closed, warm, humid environment, symptoms can develop due to the combined effect of urine and feces: redness and small rashes, in more severe cases, symptoms can appear over a larger area with secondary infections.

It occurs less frequently in breastfed babies. It is more common when formula or other foods are introduced, as this changes the composition of the stool and also causes changes in the gut flora. Consequently, the skin requires different care when the baby is no longer exclusively breastfed. In addition to food, teething and the state of the immune system can also affect the composition of the stool, so more careful care may be needed during certain periods. It is also worth paying attention to the selection of diapers and wipes, as a poorly chosen diaper can also be a source of irritation. 
 

Here are some practical tips to prevent diaper rash:

1. During diaper changes, wash their skin with lukewarm water, or possibly with a gently cleansing natural bath wash instead of wipes!

2. Thoroughly dry their skin with a soft towel, paying special attention to the folds!

3. Change the diaper more frequently and leave it off as long as possible!

4. Use a diaper cream that naturally protects and cares for the skin!