Diaper dermatitis
Diaper dermatitis is a very widespread phenomenon. The use of disposable diapers in children, the elderly and the disabled is often accompanied by diaper dermatitis. We will tell you why this is so, how to prevent diaper dermatitis and how to treat it.
Advertisements have managed to convince us that the disposable diaper is something of a miracle that keeps the skin dry. At the price of diapers, we're happy to believe in the magic. But the manufacturers themselves warn that changing should be done at least 5 times a day, and 8 times in 24 hours for babies. Pediatricians, however, recommend changing babies 12 times and toddlers 8 times in 24 hours. Seniors and the disabled should change diapers at least 4 times in 24 hours and always after a bowel movement.
Magic diapers do not exist
No diaper can prevent urine from coming into contact with the skin when the absorbent core of the diaper becomes saturated. The enzymes in the stool and the acid in the urine then irritate the skin. The heat and wetness under the nappy contributes to the growth of bacteria, which attack the irritated skin. The longer the diaper is left unchanged, the sooner this cocktail results in an inflamed, red, warm and sore rash, diaper dermatitis. Diaper dermatitis in children and the elderly and disabled is most often found at the points of skin contact with urine and stool, i.e., the genital area and buttocks.
How to prevent diaper dermatitis?
So how to prevent diaper dermatitis is obvious. Change diapers according to the instructions. After stool every time. If possible, do not use cleansing wipes, because they also contain chemicals. Better to wipe the skin gently with a washcloth or rinse with running water. But sometimes, despite the best care, diaper dermatitis occurs and needs to be treated.
The treatment of diaper dermatitis is primarily to prevent stool and urine from coming into contact with the skin. Diapers must be changed frequently, and it is recommended to use a number larger, with a larger absorbent core. Special detergents without laureth sulphate and containing antiseptics against bacteria are used to wash the affected skin. We dry with gentle tapping, not rubbing, which damages the skin even more. We can also dry by gentle blow-drying with lukewarm air. After drying, apply a thin layer of zinc oxide cream and, if there is a secondary infection, the prescribed ointment. If possible, ventilate the affected area without diapers to prevent scalding. In adults, the use of a barrier cream with long-lasting protection is recommended as a prevention of diaper dermatitis.
Is it an allergy?
In addition to common diaper dermatitis, allergic contact diaper dermatitis occurs. The diaper itself releases chlorine, some contain perfume, some diapers consist of plastics (i.e. petroleum products) and adhesives. Sensitive skin then reacts in a similar way to diaper dermatitis. It turns red, burns or itches, pimples and blisters form, and the skin may crack and peel. The area in which allergic diaper dermatitis occurs is typical. Dermatologists call it "Lucky Luke" or "colt's holster," after the cartoon character of a cowboy who wore a colt hanging low on his hips. Contact allergic dermatitis is treated with prescription ointments. To prevent recurrence of the problem, dermatologists recommend using a barrier skin protectant with a long-lasting effect.
