Diaper rash is a common source of discomfort for babies and concern for parents. Moisture, friction and prolonged contact with urine or stool can leave delicate skin looking red, swollen or irritated.
Most mild diaper rashes can be managed with attentive diaper care and a product labeled for use in the diaper area. However, persistent, severe or unusual rashes may need evaluation by a pediatrician.
What Causes Diaper Rash?
The diaper area is regularly exposed to moisture, warmth and friction. Irritation may develop when the skin remains wet or comes into prolonged contact with urine or stool.
Common contributing factors include:
- Wet or soiled diapers
- Frequent stools or diarrhea
- Friction and chafing
- Changes in diet
- Antibiotic use
- Sensitivity to wipes, diapers or personal care products
- Yeast or bacterial infection
Not every diaper rash has the same cause. A product intended for ordinary skin irritation may not be appropriate for a yeast infection, bacterial infection or allergic reaction.
Why Frequent Stools Can Irritate the Skin
Diarrhea and frequent bowel movements expose the diaper area to additional moisture and repeated cleaning. This can weaken the skin barrier and make redness, chafing and tenderness more likely.
A diaper cream may help comfort and protect irritated skin, but it does not treat diarrhea or its underlying cause. Infants and young children can become dehydrated quickly when experiencing diarrhea.
Contact a pediatrician if your baby has persistent diarrhea, bloody stools, repeated vomiting, fever or signs of dehydration. Warning signs may include decreased urination, a dry mouth, few or no tears, unusual sleepiness or increased fussiness. CDC guidance for diarrhea and dehydration in children
How to Care for a Mild Diaper Rash
Change Diapers Frequently
Change wet or soiled diapers promptly to reduce the amount of time irritated skin remains in contact with moisture and waste.
Clean the Area Gently
Use lukewarm water or a mild, fragrance-free cleanser when necessary. Avoid scrubbing. Pat the skin dry instead of rubbing it.
Allow Time Without a Diaper
When practical, give the area time to air-dry before putting on a clean diaper. Short periods without a diaper can help reduce trapped moisture.
Avoid Unnecessary Irritants
Fragranced wipes, harsh cleansers and aggressive rubbing may make already-sensitive skin feel worse. If a new diapering product appears to coincide with irritation, discontinue it and discuss the reaction with your child’s healthcare provider.
Use a Product Labeled for the Diaper Area
A suitable topical cream can create a comforting layer over irritated skin and help reduce additional friction. Follow the complete product directions and warnings.
Gentle Symptomatic Comfort From ECOLEAF
ECOLEAF Butt Cream is a topical formula created to provide symptomatic comfort for common skin irritation associated with diaper rash, frequent stools and chafing.
The rich cream format allows for direct application to clean, dry skin. Featured botanical and naturally derived ingredients include:
- Aloe vera
- Cocoa butter
- Cota
- Jojoba
- Lavender
- Malva
- Milk thistle
- Olive oil
- Osha
- Peppermint
- Rosa de Castilla
- Shea butter
- Spearmint
These are featured ingredients and should not be interpreted as the complete ingredient list. Always review the product label for the complete formula, age guidance, directions and warnings.
Before using the product on a newborn, premature infant or child with highly sensitive or broken skin, consult a pediatrician. Stop using it if irritation worsens or a new reaction develops.
When to Contact Your Pediatrician
Contact your child’s pediatrician if the rash:
- Does not begin improving with basic diaper care
- Becomes worse or spreads
- Develops blisters, open sores, drainage or bleeding
- Appears unusually bright red or involves skin folds
- Is accompanied by a fever
- Causes significant pain
- Frequently returns
- Develops after antibiotic use
Some diaper rashes require an antifungal, antibacterial or other targeted medication. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends contacting your child’s doctor when a rash does not clear with basic care. American Academy of Pediatrics diaper-rash guidance
Help Keep Delicate Skin Comfortable
Prompt diaper changes, gentle cleaning and time for the skin to dry can help manage many mild cases of diaper-area irritation. ECOLEAF Butt Cream provides a convenient topical option for symptomatic comfort from common diaper rash, chafing and irritation associated with frequent stools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ECOLEAF Butt Cream treat diarrhea?
No. ECOLEAF Butt Cream is applied to the skin for symptomatic comfort from irritation associated with frequent stools. It does not treat diarrhea or its underlying cause.
Can ECOLEAF Butt Cream treat every type of diaper rash?
No. Diaper rashes can result from irritation, yeast, bacteria, allergies or other causes. A persistent, spreading or severe rash should be evaluated by a pediatrician.
How should ECOLEAF Butt Cream be applied?
Follow the directions printed on the product label. In general, diaper-area products should be applied only to gently cleaned and dried skin. Review all age guidance, ingredients and warnings before use.