When it comes to diaper cream, there’s a lot of confusion and disagreement. Some people believe that you should use it every time you change your baby’s diaper, while others think that you should use it when needed.
You are also wondering exactly how often to use diaper cream. Right? I’ve consulted allergists, pediatricians, dermatitis and other experts to find the answer of this burning questions and draw up the best solutions. The short answer is- you should use diaper rash cream as often as necessary depending on the age of your baby, baby’s skin type and the type of diaper rash treatment cream, ointment or paste being used.
In this write-up, I’m going to discuss more on this topic to clear up all the confusion.
Hope, this will help you to make the best decision for your baby’s health.
Understanding exactly how often to use diaper rash cream is the first step to knowing what diaper rash cream actually does.
Trust me, it’s worth it!
What Diaper Cream Does?
Diaper rash occurs when moisture accumulates in the skin fold below the diapers, causing redness and skin infection. The moisture of wet diaper encourages colonization by fungus.
Diaper rash ointment or cream acts as a protective layer between your baby’s delicate skin and the moisture of their wet diapers.
The ointment or cream prevents the dampness from reaching your baby’s delicate skin, which reduces the chance of developing diaper rash.
Baby bum cream or rash cream also helps to create an optimal environment to heal rash. The ingredients of rash cream soothe the skin and helps to heal without further irritation.
This layer also helps to prevent friction of a diaper rubbing against your baby’s bottom.
Rash cream also protects against odors.
So, How Often Should You Use Diaper Cream?
Here is the key point:
Applying diaper cream is a necessary part of diaper changing. It is a must-have baby care product of newborn to both prevent and treat diaper rash.
In order to prevent diaper rash and irritation, it is important to apply the ointment to the diaper area AS OFTEN AS necessary.
Apply the ointment before your baby’s bedtime or when he/she may be spending a lot of time in wet diapers-especially at night
Should You Apply Rash Cream on Every Diaper Change?
Many people believe that there is no reason to wait for the rash from happening in the first place. They advocate using it on every diaper change to reduce the chances of developing painful rashes.
Others prefer to use it when necessary if their baby’s sensitive skin is showing signs of irritation.
However, there is no one definitive answer to the question of whether or not you should use diaper cream at every change.
You should consider the following instances:
- Your baby already has a rash
- Youur baby’s skin shows irritation forming/ redness.
- Your newborn is pooping black tar poop (meconium), to prevent it from sticking to your baby’s skin.
- Your baby is suffering from diarrhea- to prevent irritation from the looser stool.
- Your baby’s skin is very sensitive, prone to irritation and gets rashes frequently
- During the bed time, especially at every night when your baby skin has the most exposure to moisture.
Consider the above circumstances and use diaper rash cream at every time you change your little one’s diaper. It will act as daily moisture barrier to stay ahead of the diaper rash.
How Much Diaper Cream Should You Use?
It depends on several factors including baby’s age, skin type.
However, a good rule of thumb is to apply enough cream so that it covers the entire diaper area well- both front and back.
In general, a dime sized amount is enough to cover your baby’s teeny bum.
It’s important to use the cream appropriately. Avoid using it excessively or excessively often. Applying too much amount of cream can negatively affect the diaper’s absorbency.
Remember to experiment and find the amount that works best for your baby.
Conclusion
That’s all about how often to use diaper cream.
Make sure to read all the way to the end to find out the best time and amount of diaper rash treatment cream or paste to use.
Not all diaper creams are created equal. Some diaper rash cream may contain fragrances and harsh ingredients. You should avoid them entirely.
Always double check your baby’s sensitive areas at every diaper changing time.
Whether that be at home or out and about, don’t forget to toss a diaper cream into your diaper bag so that it’s always at hand!
We hope this write-up has helped you understand better and make the best decision for your baby’s care!