• By Emily Amelia Inglis
• Published 09/10/2012

Baby nappy rash is a common skin condition in young children, affecting about a third of all new babies. But there are ways to help avoid nappy rash:

· Always check your baby’s nappy before and after a feed. Don’t be tempted to put your baby down to sleep with a wet or dirty nappy as prolonged contact with the skin will cause irritation and is the most common cause of nappy rash

· Even if you only notice a wee, always change your baby’s nappy as any moisture that leaks from the nappy can irritate baby’s delicate skin

· Avoid using tight fitting plastic pants over nappies as this can create the perfect warm, moist environment that encourages fungal nappy rash to grow

· Give your baby nappy free time each day as exposing the skin to fresh air is essential to help prevent nappy rash and to keep skin healthy. A good tip is to lie your baby on a Huggies Changing Pad or a clean, absorbent towel in case of little accidents

· If using water to clean your baby’s nappy area, use a Huggies Cotton Soft Sheet or a soft towel to gently dry the nappy area

· Avoid perfumed wipes as these can irritate the skin and if using wipes, make sure they are not alcohol based as this can irritate the skin also

· Barrier cream acts as a protective layer between wee and poo and your baby’s delicate skin. Remember to only apply a thin layer of barrier cream before putting on a clean nappy as a thick layer can actually block the pores and stop the skin from breathing

· Finally, avoid using talcum powder when changing your baby’s nappy as this can cause further irritation and does not protect your baby’s skin against urine and faeces as a barrier cream would.

This information does not replace doctor’s advice.

About the Author : Emily Amelia Inglis is writing about baby nappy rash.