Signs of Baby's Skin Irritation Due to Diapers and How to Deal With It

As new parents, moms, and dads must have experienced a moment when their little one had a diaper rash. Don't worry, this condition is very common. Diaper rash is a skin problem that babies often experience. According to IDAI, 7-35% of babies aged 9-12 months experience diaper rash. This condition is characterized by redness and irritation of the skin in the diaper-covered area.

Signs of Diaper Irritation in Babies

Diaper irritation in babies has distinctive signs that can be recognized by parents at home. So, what does a baby feel when experiencing diaper rash? Here are the symptoms of diaper irritation experienced by your little one:

Redness

A sign of diaper irritation in babies is the appearance of redness. This occurs due to direct contact between the baby's skin and acidic urine and feces. Prolonged contact can cause irritation and inflammation of the skin. The skin in the diaper area feels warm and the area affected by the rash is usually bright red or pink. Sometimes, the reddish color may extend to the thigh crease area or around the genitals.

Bumps or Blisters

In addition to redness, in some cases, diaper rash may also be accompanied by the appearance of small bumps or blisters. The bumps may feel rough or smooth, depending on the severity of the rash. Bumps or blisters usually appear as the body's response to more severe irritation. Constant friction, bacterial or fungal infections, or allergies to certain ingredients in diapers can trigger the appearance of bumps or blisters.

Dry and Scaly Skin

The skin in the area of the rash may become dry, scaly, or even cracked. This often happens if the rash has lasted long enough or if the baby's skin is very sensitive. Dry and flaky skin occurs because of the loss of the skin's natural protective layer due to constant irritation and friction. In addition, the use of overly harsh skincare products can also aggravate this condition.

Rash

Babies with rashes are usually fussy, cry easily, and resist diaper changes. They may also have difficulty sleeping due to discomfort. Skin irritation causes itching and burning, making the baby uncomfortable.

Factors Affecting the Severity of Diaper Rash

In addition to sensitive skin in your child, several factors can also increase the risk of irritation severity due to diapers. By knowing what these factors are, parents can prevent diaper rash in their little ones. Let's pay attention to the following things, moms:

• Frequency of diaper changes: The more often the diaper changes, the less likely the baby has a rash.
• Type of diaper: Diapers that are too tight or made of rough material may increase the risk of rashes.
• Skin care products: Using skin care products that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances can irritate the baby's skin.
• Baby's health condition: Babies with weak immune systems are more prone to diaper rash.

How to deal with diaper rash

Although not a skin problem that endangers your little one, moms and dads still have to pay extra attention when your little one gets diaper rash. Because diaper rash cannot heal by itself without proper treatment. Here is how to deal with diaper rash:

1. Change Diapers Regularly

Don't underestimate the frequency of changing diapers, moms. Because the longer the baby's skin is exposed to urine and feces, the greater the risk of irritation. When changing diapers, prepare all the necessary supplies before changing the diaper. Remove the diaper slowly and carefully. Clean soiled areas with a damp washcloth or soft baby wipes. Dry the baby's skin with gentle pats using a clean towel. If necessary apply diaper rash cream and fit a new diaper of the right size.

2. Gently Clean Baby's Skin

Cleaning baby's skin properly can help remove residual urine, feces, and other irritants. Use warm water and mild baby soap. Avoid soaps that contain fragrances or harsh chemicals. Clean the area affected by the rash gently with a washcloth or cotton swab. Avoid rubbing too hard as this may aggravate the irritation. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft towel.

3. Let Baby's Skin "Breathe"

Giving baby's skin time to "breathe" can help reduce moisture and speed up the healing process. Several times a day, leave baby without a diaper for a few minutes. Choose a clean, warm place to put the baby. Always monitor your little one carefully so that they don't get cold or dirty.

4. Use Diaper Rash Cream

Diaper rash creams can help protect baby's skin from further irritation and speed up the healing process. Choose a diaper rash cream that contains zinc oxide or petroleum jelly. These ingredients have protective properties and can help form a barrier layer on the skin. Apply a thin layer of diaper rash cream on the affected skin after cleaning it.

5. Choose the Right Diaper

Inappropriate diapers can cause friction and irritation to the baby's skin. Choose diapers that are the right size. Diapers that are too tight can cause chafing, while diapers that are too loose can cause leakage. Choose diapers made from soft and absorbent materials. Pay attention to the baby's skin type. If the baby has very sensitive skin, choose special diapers for sensitive skin.

6. Avoid Using Harsh Products

Skincare products containing fragrances, alcohol, or harsh chemicals can irritate a baby's sensitive skin. Choose baby skincare products that are labeled "hypoallergenic" or "natural".

SAP Thin Core Technology in MAKUKU Diapers Effectively Reduce the Risk of Diaper Rash

Many parents may not be familiar with SAP. SAP is a technology in the absorbent core of diapers that can absorb diapers quickly and evenly so that diapers do not clump easily. Especially for little ones who are actively moving, the SAP component as an absorbent core material will remain stable when shaken. The diaper will remain thin even though it has collected a lot of liquid and is able to maintain the diaper's moisture so that your little one's skin remains dry throughout the day. MAKUKU diapers use SAP Thin Core technology that has been used by several major countries, while in Indonesia MAKUKU is the first SAP diaper pioneer.

Now MAKUKU has several variants that you can choose according to your little one's needs. So, fear of diaper rash use MAKUKU!