Here is a classic picture of an irritant diaper dermatitis in a patient of mine. This is the initial diaper rash that parents often complain about that happens when a baby is teething and has a loose stool or if a child has diarrhea from a viral illness. Note the sparing of the skin creases and the lack of satellite lesions. (indicative of yeast)
This rash is treated with a thick coating of a zinc oxide diaper creme I created an organic formulation for my patients to use that is lacking in pesticides, perfumes, which further irritate the skin. Also I like using organic olive oil rather than mineral oil formulations to be friendly to the environment. I recommend this creme for both treatment and prevention of irritant diaper rash. For prevention use a liberal amount daily in the diaper area, and even apply with a tongue depressor like you are icing a cake!
Another important aspect of diaper rash prevention is minimizing rubbing and wiping of tender baby bottom while changing diapers. One trick is to gently wash the baby’s bottom in the sink or tub with lukewarm water and then gently pat dry.
Happy Diaper Changing!
Dr Hodge
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