How to Prevent Diaper Rash: A Complete Guide for Parents

In this blog we delve deep into the causes, prevention and medical side of diaper rash.

What exactly is diaper rash?

Diaper rash, also known medically as diaper dermatitis , is a collective term for skin inflammation in the diaper area. It is recognizable by red, sometimes shiny skin on the buttocks, groin, or around the genitals.

Almost every baby experiences diaper rash at some point. That red, irritated skin in the diaper area can be painful for your little one and cause concern for you as a parent. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and care, diaper rash can often be prevented and treated quickly.

What exactly is diaper rash?

Diaper rash, also known medically as diaper dermatitis, is a skin inflammation in the diaper area. It is characterized by red, sometimes shiny skin on the bottom, groin, or around the genitals. In more severe cases, bumps, blisters, or flaking can also develop. The skin may feel raw, and your baby may cry during diaper changes because it hurts.

What causes diaper rash?

A baby's skin is up to five times thinner than an adult's, making it much more sensitive. A diaper creates a warm, moist environment—the perfect conditions for skin irritation. The main causes are:

Moisture and friction - Prolonged contact with urine and feces damages the skin's natural barrier. The skin becomes soft and fragile, making diaper friction easily cause irritation.

Chemical stimulation - Feces contain aggressive enzymes, especially in cases of diarrhea or teething. When bacteria break down urine, ammonia is produced. This process raises the skin's pH, further breaking down the skin barrier.

Fungal infection - Once the skin is damaged, the path is open for Candida albicans . This fungus thrives in the warm, moist diaper. You can recognize this by bright red spots with sharp edges and the so-called "islands" (small red dots) around them. (In the hospital, we call these "islands off the coast")

Other factors - The introduction of complementary foods (think sour fruits) can change stools, antibiotics, diapers that are too tight, or sensitivity to certain care products or diaper brands can also play a role.

How do you prevent diaper rash?

The best treatment is prevention. Follow these proven tips from pediatricians and dermatologists:

Change regularly

Change diapers regularly, and always immediately after a dirty diaper. The less time the skin is in contact with moisture and feces, the less chance of irritation.

Cleanse gently and thoroughly

Avoid standard baby wipes with perfume or alcohol if your skin is sensitive.

• Water: Use lukewarm water with a soft cotton cloth.

• Don't rub: Pat the skin dry. Rubbing removes the microscopic layer of oil that protects the skin.

• Air baths: Let your baby kick around for 10-15 minutes without a diaper every day. Fresh air is the fastest way to recovery.

Apply a protective layer

Apply a thin layer of protective ointment to clean, dry skin at every diaper change. There are several effective options:

• Zinc oxide ointment (such as Sudocrem) – forms a waterproof barrier between sensitive skin and moisture
• Calendula ointment - contains marigold extract, known for its skin-restoring and anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula is also used in hospitals for children with burns due to its wound-healing properties.
• Diaper creams with calendula - often combine the protective effect of zinc with the healing properties of calendula

Pro tip: You don't have to wipe away all the old ointment every time you change your diaper. Instead, apply a fresh layer over the clean residue to prevent additional friction.

Choose the right diaper - Make sure the diaper fits well, not too tight, but not too loose. Breathable diapers help wick moisture away better. Some babies are sensitive to certain brands, so consider trying a different one.

Air baths - Let your baby lie on a towel without a diaper regularly. Fresh air and light help their skin recover and stay healthy.

Be careful with new foods - When you start supplementing, acidic foods (citrus, tomatoes) can make stools more irritable. Introduce new foods slowly and keep a close eye on the skin.

When to see a doctor?

In most cases, diaper rash clears up within a few days with proper care at home. Contact your child health clinic or GP if:

• The rash does not improve or becomes worse after 3-4 days
• Blisters, pimples or open wounds develop
• The skin starts to bleed or fluid comes out
• Your baby gets a fever
• The rash spreads beyond the diaper area
• Your baby is clearly in pain or no longer wants to eat

These could be signs of a fungal or bacterial infection that requires medical treatment.

Treatment for existing diaper rash

If your baby already has diaper rash, change them even more frequently (every hour if possible), use extra-thick layers of protective ointment (zinc or calendula), and give them as many air baths as possible. Avoid wipes temporarily and use only water. If in doubt, always consult your child health clinic—they can determine whether antifungal cream or other treatment is necessary.

Finally

Diaper rash is annoying, but almost always treatable and preventable. By paying attention to good diaper hygiene, changing them regularly, and using protective ointment, you can keep your baby's skin healthy. And remember: even with the best care, a baby can still get diaper rash. It doesn't make you a bad parent—it's just part of life.

Sources: This information is based on guidelines from the Dutch Association for Paediatrics (NVK), the Dutch College of General Practitioners (NHG) and dermatologists specialized in children's skin conditions.