Published on Apr. 16, 2018
Sometimes it feels like no matter how many creams, powders or ointments you apply, diaper rash still manages to sneak up on you.
When you’re juggling hungry cries, tired whines and full‑blown screams that may signal an illness, it’s not always easy to pinpoint what’s bothering your baby. So how can you tell if diaper rash is the culprit?
Why Diaper Rash Is So Common
"The diaper area on a baby is often warm, wet, and full of urine and stool, so it’s no wonder babies get rashes in this area," says Dr. Marnie Baker, a MemorialCare Medical Group pediatrician at Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California.
This constant exposure makes the skin more vulnerable to irritation and breakdown.
Signs Your Baby Is in Pain From Diaper Rash
Pain from diaper rash is usually fairly obvious.
"Signs that your baby is experiencing pain from a diaper rash are not usually subtle, and include crying and squirming with diaper changes, or, for an older infant or toddler, trying to reach in their diaper."
Physical Signs of Diaper Rash
Baker says diaper rash may appear as:
- General redness
- Red dots and/or bumps
- Blisters
- Areas of broken skin that look weepy or may bleed
Some babies may also cry when placed in the bath, even if bathing is typically an enjoyable experience.
Why Diaper Rash Takes Time to Heal
"As a mom myself, I wish I could write to you with a magic diaper rash remedy that will instantaneously solve your problem," Baker says in her email.
Unfortunately, healing takes time.
Because diaper rash involves broken skin, Baker explains that it can take seven to 10 days for new skin to form—regardless of which cream or treatment you use.
Best Treatment Options While the Rash Heals
Since “waiting for the body to heal itself” isn’t something babies understand, Baker recommends skipping prescription or over‑the‑counter medicated creams during healing. Instead, she suggests simple barrier ointments.
"This will help create a barrier between urine and/or stool and the broken down skin," she adds.
Daily Care Tips During Healing
Baker also recommends:
- Giving babies a daily bath while the rash heals
- Gently patting the diaper area dry afterward
If the rash does not improve within seven to 10 days—or if there is significant bleeding, pus or pain—she advises scheduling a visit with your pediatrician.
Preventing Future Diaper Rash
Even with perfect care, diaper rash can still occur. However, there are steps that can reduce how often it happens.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, prevention tips include:
- Applying a thick layer of ointment with zinc oxide at every diaper change
- Avoiding overly tight diapers
- Using extra‑absorbent diapers
These measures help keep moisture off the skin and protect the diaper area from irritation.
The Parts No One Can Prepare You For
As for diaper blowouts and pee that somehow manages to spray in all directions—unfortunately, you’re on your own for those challenges.