1. Change early and often.
   Frequent diaper changes allow for Baby to remain clean and healthy. Whenever Baby needs a change, make sure to respond to their needs. Clean dirty areas gently during every diaper change, and avoid scented diapers, wipes or soap, which can irritate sensitive skin. If possible, use soft, wet washcloths instead of wipes while diaper rash is healing.
2. Avoid baby powder.
   This product can actually build up in Baby’s skin creases and hold moisture, which can help bacteria grow and cause an infection. Talc and cornstarch powders contain tiny particles that can be inhaled by Baby, so the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says to skip this step entirely.
3. Switch diaper brands,
   Sometimes, particular diaper brands can irritate Baby’s sensitive skin. It can often take some experimenting to find just the right one. If you use scented diapers, the first switch should be to an unscented brand.
4. Allow for air-drying.
   There is a reason it’s called diaper rash! Going diaper-free and exposing skin to the open air is very effective in helping to prevent or clear diaper rash. If possible, plan certain times when the diaper can remain off for extended periods. 
5. Soak in the tub.
   Let Baby sit in a warm bath for 10 minutes three times a day. Add a little baking soda or plain oatmeal to the tub for some extra healing power. You should also make sure to pat dry, as opposed to rubbing, as this could irritate already sensitive skin. 
6. Lay it on thick.
   Barrier creams containing zinc are some of the best at treating diaper rash. But are you using enough? Probably not! The layer of cream should be so thick that no skin shows underneath.

If a diaper rash persists even with careful tending, Baby‘s pediatric provider may evaluate them for a fungal or bacterial infection, which might require additional treatment. These rashes are often shiny, very red and spread quickly. Typical diaper rashes can take a few days to start to disappear, even with treatment. If the diaper rash doesn’t start to improve after a prescribed treatment, be sure to let their provider know.

Read more

• Taking care of your baby’s skin
• Rash or acne?

1. Set the stage
   Keeping an organized and generously-stocked baby changing area will make it easier to get Baby freshened up in no time. So before starting your next mission, make sure you’ve got fresh diapers, baby wipes, diaper rash cream, some moist washcloths, and anything else that has become a key part of your diaper-changing routine ready and near enough that you don’t have to look away to access them.
2. Take a few deep breaths
   Relax – you’ve got this. Baby will likely be able to tell the difference between an anxious change and a confident one. The more steadfast and collected you are, the sooner this whole operation will be over.
3. Provide entertainment
   A well-timed distraction can put Baby at ease while you take care of the dirty work. Many parents find that keeping a handful of designated “changing time toys” for their baby to play with can do just the trick. You can also try singing Baby a song if they generally goes ape for musical arrangements.
4. Offer a helping hand
   A gently placed hand on Baby’s chest or side can often calm them down and tame the urge to perform leg raises or barrel roll straight out of the changing area before you’ve finished the job.
5. Try something new
   If Baby has reflux, gas, or a sensitive stomach, they may object to the part of a diaper change where you lift their legs to switch out the dirty diaper for the clean one, which can put pressure on their stomach. Instead, try gently rolling them on one side to slide the new diaper underneath them, and then to the other to straighten it out.
6. Go for speed
   A diaper change can be as elaborate or efficient as you’d like. But in most cases, a quick wipe and a generous slather of cream will suffice. Just be sure to line up those diaper sticky tabs close enough to avoid adherence to Baby’s skin and you’ll both be good to go!