Nappy Rash: Causes, Treatments and Soothing Baby Care Tips

Despite being told how soft and smooth a baby's skin can be, it’s not uncommon for little ones to experience a range of skin conditions from birth to toddlerhood and beyond. One of the top ones? Nappy rash.

Nappy rash is a type of irritant contact dermatitis, occurring when delicate skin is exposed to moisture, friction, and irritants like urine or stool for prolonged periods. And considering babies wear nappies around the clock, it’s a very common occurrence!

The good news is that with the right nappy rash treatment, it will usually heal as quickly as it appears. Many parents swear by barrier creams like Sudocrem and QV Baby, among our other top recommendations, which you’ll find below.


What Causes Nappy Rash?

As the name suggests, the most common triggers of nappy rash are nappy-related. The first is prolonged dampness, which is why changing dirty nappies frequently is a key step for nappy rash prevention. Friction and tight nappies can also be a contributing factor, so be sure to size up if the nappies you’re using become ill-fitting.

In some cases, the skin can be further irritated by bacteria, yeasts (e.g. candida), detergents or nappy wipes. Babies may also be more likely to experience nappy rash when they’re ill and teething, or if their diet is resulting in more frequent bowel movements (e.g. diarrhea) or an increase in acidity. Cloth nappies made from less absorbent materials can also pose a higher risk for nappy rash and may need to be changed more frequently.

 

Spotting the Signs

In general, any signs of baby skin irritation in the nappy area can indicate nappy rash. One of the earliest symptoms to look for is redness, which may also feel warm or appear slightly swollen. On darker skin tones, the rash might appear brown, purple or grey – or in some cases, cause the area to lighten.

Take notice of any discomfort or distress from your baby when changing, as skin can also be sore and itchy. Some babies may also experience “satellite spots”, which appear as small, red, dot-like spots alongside the rash and can be a sign of a fungal infection (e.g. thrush). Severe cases of nappy rash may lead to cracking, peeling, or breaks in the skin (ulcers).

Knowing how to prevent nappy rash at the early stages of redness – with a gentle routine and nappy rash cream – will help avoid worsening symptoms.


Home Treatment: Step-by-Step Care

If you notice signs of nappy rash, don’t panic. Nappy rash treatment is easy to implement at home, and you should notice an improvement within a few days. Here are the top tips to remember:

  • Change nappies frequently: Aim to change nappies soon after they’re soiled to reduce prolonged dampness.

  • Gentle cleansing routine: Take care when bathing and changing nappies. Opt for wipes and soaps free from fragrance and common skin irritants – or simply use lukewarm water and a soft cloth.

  • Barrier creams: Apply barrier cream generously after every nappy change. It should be applied in a thick and even layer. If skin is visible through it, it’s not enough.

  • Nappy-free airtime: Give baby’s skin a breather whenever possible. Allowing them to go nappy-free for a few minutes or more can help skin recover (and they love it!).

  • Choosing the right nappy: Disposable nappies are often more absorbent, which can help to reduce moisture during flare-ups. If you’re using cloth nappies, ensure they’re thoroughly washed and rinsed to remove detergent residue.

  • Diet and hydration tweaks: Keep baby well-hydrated. And if they’re eating solids, consider easing back on acidic foods (like citrus or tomatoes) until the rash has cleared up.


Nappy Rash Treatments

A nappy rash cream is an essential item for every parent's checklist. Whether you’re dealing with a newborn nappy rash or toddler flare-up, these are some of the best nappy rash creams for soothing and treating irritation.

  • Sudocrem Healing Cream. This thick emollient cream is a protective and soothing superstar. It contains zinc oxide, an active ingredient that helps to reduce fluid loss from the skin, as well as skin-protective lanolin and antibacterial properties.

  • QV Baby Barrier Cream. If you’re looking for the best nappy rash cream for sensitive skin, this low-irritant formula is paediatrician-recommended. Dimethicone helps to form a water-repellent and skin-protective barrier, while glycerin maintains hydration in the skin.

  • Bepanthen Nappy Rash Ointment. Lightweight and easy to apply, this fragrance-free ointment contains pro-vitamin B5 to gently aid the recovery of sensitive skin while keeping it soft, smooth and moisturised. Plus, the compact tube fits easily into any baby bag or backpack!

  • Weleda Calendula Nappy Change Cream. This certified natural nappy cream uses the anti-inflammatory properties of organic calendula extract to soothe irritated skin. Lanolin and zinc oxide provide a skin-friendly barrier to protect against dampness while supporting skin repair.


When to See a Doctor

While most cases of nappy rash will resolve after a few days of at-home care, you should see your GP if the rash:

  • Lasts more than 7 days.

  • Is accompanied by fever.

  • Spreads beyond the nappy area or appears to be getting worse.

  • Begins to ooze or pus-filled blisters appear.

  • Develops signs of thrush, such as small red dots alongside the main rash.

Depending on the cause, your doctor may recommend a mild corticosteroid cream to reduce inflammation, an antifungal treatment if there’s a yeast infection, or an antibiotic ointment for bacterial symptoms. Always follow your GP’s advice before using medicated creams.


The bottom line

Even if you try your best to avoid it, most babies will experience nappy rash at some point. It’s incredibly common, so don’t be disheartened – you’re doing a great job! Although it can be uncomfortable for your little one, it should clear up quickly with the right care. If you’ve ever concerned about nappy rash or any other baby skin irritation, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare professional for help and support.