Home remedies for diaper rash includes the use of Aloe Vera gel, vegetable oil, Vaseline gel, vinegar, olive oil, cod liver oil capsules, and milk of magnesia in different forms. Diaper rash is an irritating and itchy feeling on the baby’s bottom. Usually, it occurs due to the excessive moisture and wetness that remains from the diaper. Due to this wetness, it gives a perfect opportunity for bacteria to make their way into that area and negatively affect the baby’s skin.
The other reasons can also be a humid climate, tightly fitting diapers, and unhygienic ways of cleaning the baby’s reusable cloth diapers. The harsh chemicals used in the detergent and the washing powders can also be the reason for your baby to get diaper rashes. Although it is not a disease, it can create great discomfort for your baby.
As per the American Academy of Dermatology, diaper rashes are caused by wet and moist diapers and the unnecessary use of products like ointments, lotions, and creams. They suggest that the diapers should be changed more frequently and the baby’s bottom should be kept clean and dry as often as possible. [1]
According to the studies and reviews of the American Academy of Dermatology, it is said that almost every child suffers from diaper rashes at some point, thanks to their mothers, even though they cannot be blamed completely. The use of diapers can cause redness and mild scaling of the skin which can result in to pimples, sores and blisters if not treated on time. However, diapers are essential for raising a child. As mentioned earlier, diapers can cause skin irritation, so it is best to change the diapers often or even let your baby do without diapers. Open fresh and cool air can help these rashes cure faster. [2]
Often, when we suffer from any disease, the first person we contact immediately is the doctor. However, we forget to use the most tried and tested methods of home remedies. The simple and ready-to-use home remedies can be very effective and straight from your kitchen. Let us explore and share some of the home remedies that can come in handy before you run to the doctor to treat your baby’s diaper rashes.
Diaper rash is a very common infection that can cause a baby’s skin to become sore, red, scaly, and tender. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Home Remedies for Diaper Rashes
These home remedies for diaper rashes can be used for 3-7 days. However, if the rashes still don’t disappear or if you find similar type of rashes on any other body parts, then it’s time for you to give your doctor a call.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera is considered to be the purest form of healing treatment for any kind of rashes, cuts, irritation, and itchy skin. The skin soaks in the gel quicker than almost any other substance. The main cause for diaper rash is moisture. However, with the use of Aloe Vera gel, the skin will be moisture-free and dry, unlike other ointments and creams that can leave dampness.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is considered to be very good for the skin at any age. Make a mixture of equal amounts of olive oil and water, mix it thoroughly, and apply it to the affected body part of the baby. This is supposedly the best known natural cure for diaper rashes.
Vinegar
Usually, we use detergents and washing powders to rinse baby’s cloth diapers. However, it is recommended not to use them, since they contain chemical factors that can worsen the condition. Instead, wash your baby’s diaper with warm water. Just add half a cup of vinegar to the water before you dip the diaper in it for the first wash. Use plain water for the second rinse and then dry it. This can prove to be very good and will reduce the chances of rashes reappearing.
Vegetable Oil
In most cases, we often forget that the best medicines are in our kitchen. Try to apply vegetable oil on the affected body part of the baby and leave it open to the air. It will soothe the irritation, leaving your baby happy and able to play.
Diaper rash is related to wet or infrequently changed diapers, skin sensitivity, & chafing. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Cod liver Oil
Cod Liver oil capsules are easily available on the market. All you need to do is remove the ingredient and apply it to the affected area.
Vaseline Gel
Most doctors recommend lotions that contain zinc oxide. Vaseline is an alternative to this, and it will help soothe any inflammation of the skin.
Milk of Magnesia
Give a dose of milk of magnesia to your baby. This will help rashes to heal faster and can also reduce the burning sensation.
References: American Academy of Dermatology
American Academy of Family Physicians [3] [4]
