For Healthcare Professionals

How to prevent it

Nappy rash is very common and preventative measures are based on minimising the exposure of a baby's skin to irritants like urine, faeces and friction, which can cause nappy rash.

There are a number of evidence-based steps you can recommend which will help to reduce the likelihood of a baby getting nappy rash

• try to leave the nappy off as much as possible. The longer the skin is occluded the greater the risk of dermatitis due to increase in skin hydration, pH and friction.1
• Change nappies as soon as they are wet or soiled so that the baby's skin is not in contact with urine or faeces for too long Research has shown that incidence and severity of nappy rash is significantly lower when parents change the nappy more frequently.1
• Avoid soaps, bubble baths or lotions, which can all remove lipids from the skin, making it more vulnerable to irritants.1
• Use plain water or alcohol / perfume free baby wipes.1
• Dry gently after cleansing by patting the skin dry rather than rubbing with a towel.1
• The routine use of a barrier preparation at each nappy change is widely recommended by experts to reduce the contact between the skin and urine or faeces.1 Ointments are generally more effective than creams or lotions as they provide a better moisture barrier.1
• Avoid the use of talcum powder as it offers no protection against urine and faeces. It can also cause friction and irritate the baby's skin.1

A good skincare routine, including the regular use of a barrier ointment can help protect against nappy rash

Reference
1.http://www.cks.nhs.uk/nappy_rash/management/scenario_nappy_rash#376065006