Diaper rash is a common problem new parents deal with, since most babies will get a diaper rash at some point during their diaper-wearing years, according to pediatrician Marianne Neifert in "Parenting" magazine. Rashes are usually caused by irritation from a wet or ill-fitting diaper, but they can also be caused by allergies or antibiotics. Using a cream or ointment when your baby has an active diaper rash can help heal the rash more quickly.
Step 1
Choose the right ointment for your baby's rash, recommends William Sears, pediatrician and parenting expert, on his website AskDrSears.com. Sears says you need an ointment that contains lanolin or petrolatum for a mild diaper rash, but should upgrade to a zinc oxide ointment for a medium diaper rash, and ask your pediatrician about a prescription diaper ointment for ongoing or serious rashes.
Step 2
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Pat your hands dry with a clean towel.
Step 3
Make sure your baby's diaper area is clean and dry by gently wiping away any soil and patting -- rather than rubbing -- the area, recommends the American Academy of Family Physicians. If you can, leave your baby's diaper off so that her diaper area can air-dry.
Step 4
Use your fingers to gently apply ointment generously to your baby's diaper rash, covering the affected area and extending the ointment to cover the surrounding skin. The ointment should form a thick, protective layer.
Step 5
Resist the urge to wipe ointment away during diaper changes, recommends Neifert. Instead, wipe the area gently to clean it, leaving the base layer of ointment and adding more on top of it.
Tips and Warnings
- Use extra ointment for bedtime and nighttime, when your baby will be in his diaper for a longer period of time, recommends Neifert.
- Avoid ointments or creams that contain camphor, boric acid, methyl salicylate, phenol or compound of benzoin tincture, warns the American Academy of Family Physicians. These ingredients can be harmful to your baby's skin.
