Home remedies for infant skin rashes

Home remedies for skin rashes are particularly important because the skin is the most exposed part of the body. Made up of three layers, it protects the body from germs. As obvious as it is, the skin of babies is not as developed as that of adults and therefore, it remains sensitive for the first three years of life.

Owing to the extra sensitivity of the skin, babies’ skin easily gets infected and dried out. Therefore, it is not uncommon for babies to have rashes time and again. Here are some of the most commonly used home remedies for infant skin rashes:

White vnegar

White vinegar is one of the simplest home remedies to clear the rashes up, especially diaper rashes. Take one part vinegar and mix it with 8 parts water. Gently clean the baby’s bottom with the solution after every diaper change. Infant rash can also be cleared by allowing the baby to be without a diaper for some time. Avoid scented baby wipes or those that have chemicals in them as they may irritate the baby’s skin. Change diapers regularly to keep the area clean and dry.

Hydrocortisone cream

Hydrocortisone cream is easily available over-the-counter and used to clear common types of infant rashes. The cream quickly acts with the rash to clear it up, though the rash may reappear. It can also be used to clear simple contact rashes that occur when the baby comes in contact with something that irritates his/her skin.

Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole is an anti-fungal cream that can be easily bought over-the-counter. The cream is effective in treating yeast rashes in the diaper area as well as ringworm. You may be able to find Clotrimazole in the feet care sections of a pharmacy because it is most commonly used to treat an athlete’s foot.

Petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly and other thick body lotions are helpful in protecting rashes from getting worse or to help them disappear. Petroleum jelly acts as a physical barrier for the skin by protecting it from irritants.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are used to treat rashes caused by an allergic reaction or those that are highly itchy. It, however, must be used after consulting a doctor for the appropriate usage for your infant. If your child’s rash is caused by an allergic reaction, monitor him/her for difficulty in swallowing or wheezing. If your child has either of these, he/she may have a serious underlying medical problem.

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