With Metanium’s resident midwife, Heather Morris 

When your baby is suffering from nappy rash, it can be upsetting to see your little one in discomfort. So, as a parent, you want to ensure you are following the correct advice when it comes to both treating nappy rash and protecting your baby’s delicate skin. With a vast amount of information out there, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction, but to help shed some light, Metanium’s resident midwife, Heather Morris, answers some of the most frequently asked questions around nappy rash.

How to differentiate between nappy rash, eczema, or a reaction? 

“Nappy rash is an irritation to the skin that is often caused by wet or dirty nappies being in contact with a baby’s bottom for a long period of time. It is recognised by a well-defined red rash with some areas of the skin appearing raised or swollen around the nappy area. It does not tend to involve the skin creases and your baby may be distressed or agitated due to itching or pain. 

“An allergic reaction will appear red and itchy around the areas that have been in contact with the irritant, such as the elastic part of the nappy, around the waist and thighs. There may also be visible swelling, or small blisters. 

“An eczema rash is unlikely to develop in the nappy area as this is often a well-hydrated part of the body. However, if there is a family history of very dry skin, this should be considered – particularly if the rash appears within the skin folds.”

Is nappy rash itchy/painful?

“Nappy rash can be itchy and painful for your baby, but by following these simple steps you can help to alleviate discomfort”

• Change wet or dirty nappies as soon as possible.
• Clean the whole nappy area gently but thoroughly, wiping from front to back. Use water or fragrance-free and alcohol-free baby wipes. 
• Bath your baby daily – but avoid bathing them more than twice a day as that may dry out their skin. Do not use soap, bubble bath, or lotions.
• Dry your baby gently after washing them – avoid vigorous rubbing.
• Do not use talcum powder as it contains ingredients that could irritate your baby’s skin.

“When nappy rash does occur, use an effective treatment such as Metanium’s Nappy Rash Ointment (the Yellow One) to soothe irritation and reduce redness.”

Do babies get nappy rash when teething?

“Nappy rash is common when teething, possibly due to the increase in saliva production in the mouth being swallowed. This can bring on diarrhoea, meaning a higher chance for nappy rash.” 

Can nappy rash cause fever?

“Common, uncomplicated nappy rash is unlikely to cause a fever in your baby. However, if the rash is severe or there are many infected areas, it is possible for a fever to develop. It is important to consider other symptoms that your baby may have – for example, diarrhoea or constant crying may indicate an alternative cause for the fever.”

Can nappy rash spread?

“It is unlikely that nappy rash will spread beyond the area that the nappy is in contact with. If your baby does have a rash that extends beyond the nappy area, then please see your GP for some advice.” 

Can nappy rash go away naturally?

“Yes, uncomplicated nappy rash can go away naturally, especially if your baby is allowed to spend time without the constraints of a nappy on. Most babies really enjoy that feeling of freedom when they can kick freely.”

Does my choice of nappy make a difference to nappy rash?

“Yes, your choice of nappy can affect nappy rash, particularly if the nappy is too tight or too loose for your baby’s size. Too tight and there’s no air circulating around your baby’s bottom and chaffing can occur, too loose and your baby’s wee and poo can spread further across the surface area of the skin.”

“Disposable nappies are made in many different shapes and sizes for the weight of your baby, and you will probably need to try a few brands before you find the one that best suits your own baby. 

“Parents should also avoid tight fitting plastic pants over nappies as they hold moisture easily and can make symptoms worse.

“Whichever nappy you choose, it is important that they are changed frequently throughout the day, and that your baby’s skin is cleaned with water or fragrance-free wipes. The key to preventing nappy rash is protecting your baby’s delicate skin. After cleansing, dry the skin gently and apply a thin layer of barrier cream such as Metanium‘s Everyday Barrier Ointment and try to allow as much nappy free time as possible to enable air circulation.”

Is nappy rash fungal? 

“Whilst nappy rash isn’t fungal, prolonged dampness within the nappy can sometimes lead to a fungal infection. Fungal nappy rash usually has a bright red appearance and can be widespread.

“If your baby has a course of antibiotics for an infection, this may also lead to a fungal nappy rash. Fungal nappy rash is treatable, and your GP will be able to offer you advice.”

Nappy rash is not an uncommon irritation in a baby’s life, so, from the moment your little one is born, until they are out of nappies, the Metanium range is here to help look after your baby’s delicate skin all year round. 

The Purple One helps protect:

Applying a thin layer of Metanium’s Everyday Barrier Ointment after each nappy change forms a protective layer on baby’s bottom, helping to shield the skin from irritation-inducing nasties. As well as protecting the skin, the gentle formula seals in the skin’s natural moisture keeping skin soft, smooth, and supple too.

It also comes in a handy spray bottle – Metanium’s Everyday Easy Spray Barrier Lotion is quick and simple-to-use, especially when you are out and about. No need to rub in, simply spray twice and pat gently for even coverage. 

The Yellow One treats:

For those moments when nappy rash does occur, choose Metanium’s Nappy Rash Ointment. 

Suitable to use from birth onwards, the Yellow One is specially designed to treat and soothe irritation and redness, so your little one can be back smiling in no time*.  

All Metanium products are unscented and 100% vegan friendly. Available from: Amazon, Asda, Boots, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Tesco, Waitrose, Wilkinson, Lloyds Pharmacy and independent chemists.

 

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*Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment is a medicine. Always read the label.