| Nappy Rash Nappy rash usually occurs simply as a result irritation of the skin by urine and stools in the nappy. It would be impossible to keep your baby dry all the time, but frequent nappy changing is important, usually at feeding time. Prevention is easier than a cure. When changing your baby clean the skin first, with cotton wool and warm water or baby lotion. Baby wipes are a convenient alternative. Girls must always be wiped from front to back to prevent germs entering the vagina or bladder from the anus. Dry the area thoroughly but gently, and apply a barrier cream such as petroleum jelly (Vaseline) or zinc and castor oil cream to form a waterproof barrier to urine. It is just a matter personal preference which you choose. Avoid using too much cream, as it can clog the absorbent action of the nappy, and wipe the cream off your fingers before sticking the tapes of a disposable nappy - or it will never stick! If your baby does get nappy rash, change as above, and avoid using plastic pants as they prevent air from circulating, and if possible let your baby spend time lying on a towel on the floor without a nappy on as exposure to air aids healing.
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