Most parents know that diaper rash is a common issue, but many may not realize that heat can be a major factor in causing this problem.
In this post, we’ll explore how heat can cause diaper rash and offer some tips on how to prevent it. We hope you find this information helpful!
How does heat cause diaper rash?
Diaper rash is a common condition that causes redness and minor scaling around the diaper area. It is frequently caused by leaving a wet diaper on for an extended period of time or by introducing new foods that induce irritating diarrhea. During the summer, though, it can also be caused by increased sweating due to the higher temperatures.
In addition to diaper rash caused by extended contact with a wet diaper, yeast infections are more likely during the summer months. Candida can resemble a normal diaper rash because it is also a red rash. However, traditional diaper rash treatments will not help.
How can you prevent diaper rash caused by hot weather?
Keeping your baby’s diaper area dry is the most effective way of avoiding diaper rash. This may imply frequent diaper changes in hot weather and allowing him or her to air out whenever possible. But don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun!
If they are in direct sunlight, infants and babies should be worn in long, lightweight pants and shirts, with a head covering. Sunscreen should be applied to exposed skin on newborns above the age of six months.
Avoid wearing heavy clothing and spending too much time in a carrier or sling, where the combination of your body heat and insufficient ventilation can leave your baby sweating.
Spending a lot of time outside in hot weather is not a good idea.
In hot conditions, choose loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
Never leave a baby in a car alone himself and use air conditioning when driving on hot days during summer.
When possible, stay in air-conditioned areas. If you’re inside and don’t have air conditioning, use a fan to keep the air circulating, and if you’re outside, spend the majority of your time in shaded locations.
Maintaining a cool and well-ventilated resting environment for your baby minimizes the risk of SIDS.
How to treat diaper rash caused by heat or hot weather?
These treatments are designed to either soothe a baby’s skin irritation or to form a protective barrier – or both.
- Use a diaper rash cream or ointment with zinc oxide or petrolatum (petroleum jelly) to your baby’s skin at each diaper change. Before putting on a clean diaper, smooth or rub it onto your baby’s skin. A diaper rash cream that contains zinc oxide usually helps.
- The talc or cornstarch content of a baby powder may induce breathing difficulties so keep it away from your baby’s face. Instead, put it in your palm and apply it to the affected area.
- If you notice symptoms of a yeast infection, consult your doctor right away for medical advice. He or she might give you a prescription medication such as antifungal cream.
- If your kid develops a bacterial infection, you can treat it with either topical or oral medicines. If you notice signs of an allergic reaction seek medical care treatment immediately.
- Avoid using baby wipes especially if they contain alcohol during diaper change. Wet a soft cloth or cotton ball, warm water and mild soap instead.
- Make bath time regular to make sure your baby’s skin is clean. Air-dry the rash area before putting on clean diapers.
- Wash cloth diapers in mild detergent. Don’t use fabric softener or dryer sheets. Skin irritants can use further skin irritation which could make the rashes become worse.
- Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise, avoid using steroid treatment creams (hydrocortisone) from the drugstore. If you don’t apply them correctly, they can irritate your baby’s bottom even more.
Conclusion
Can hot weather cause diaper rashes? It’s a valid question, and the answer is yes. Heat exposure can increase the likelihood of developing a baby’s diaper rash in several ways.
The first reason is that sweat can irritate skin of most babies, and excess moisture trapped in the diapers against the sensitive skin creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow and might result in a skin rash.
Secondly, when it’s hot outside, babies are more likely to be active and spend more time crawling and running around wearing diapers which means they’re also more likely to get dirty diapers.
Finally, if your baby’s skin is more sensitive than usual, even warm weather may be enough to cause a skin rash. If you’re worried about your child developing a rash in hot weather during summer, there are some things you can do to manage it. If the rash becomes worse and your babies are having fever, contact your doctor immediately.
