Chances are, if you have children in diapers, you have some experience with diaper rash. Diaper rash can range in severity from a few small pink spots to a large, bright red, bleeding sore. Typically, this skin irritation is caused by a variety of factors associated with wetness. However, diaper rash may also be caused by the presence of irritants in the diaper itself, including colored dyes.
Diaper Rash
Diaper rash is typically caused by a variety of factors. When the baby's skin is moist, it is more susceptible to irritation from friction. In addition, when both urine and feces are present in the diaper, bacteria in the feces convert the urine into ammonia, further irritating the skin. A yeast called Candida is also typically implicated in cases of diaper rash. This fungus is found everywhere, but it grows best in warm, moist environments, like inside a wet diaper.
Reaction to Dye
Many brands of disposable diapers use various colors of dye to decorate the diaper, or to indicate wetness. However, a September 2005 study published in the journal "Pediatrics" indicates that the dyes used in these diapers can cause an allergic form of diaper rash in some children. The study estimates that up to 20 percent of all cases of diaper rash may be caused by an allergic reaction to the presence of dyes in diapers.
Irritants in the Diaper
Many brands of disposable diapers are made of synthetic fibers which do not bind well to dyes. Thus, the dye easily escapes the fabric, especially when moisture is present. This leaves the dye free to come into contact with the skin. In addition, the rubber chemicals and glue used in the manufacture of many brands of disposable diapers have been associated with allergic diaper rash.
Treatment
Typically, diaper rash is treated with a zinc oxide or antifungal ointment, along with more frequent diaper changes. In the case of a diaper rash caused by an allergic reaction to the dyes in the diaper, a corticosteroid ointment like hydrocortisone may be used. However, the best course of action is to switch to a dye-free diaper. All the children in the 2005 "Pediatrics" study improved significantly immediately after switching to dye-free diapers.
