Baby diaper rash or yeast infection. Baby Diaper Rash vs Yeast Infection: How to Identify and Treat Skin Issues in Infants
How can you tell the difference between diaper rash and a yeast infection in babies. What are the common causes of skin irritation in the diaper area. When should you seek medical attention for your baby’s rash.
Understanding Diaper Rash and Yeast Infections in Infants
Skin irritations in the diaper area are a common concern for parents of infants. While most cases are simple diaper rash, some may be caused by yeast infections. Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for proper treatment and care.
What causes diaper rash?
Diaper rash can be caused by several factors:
- Prolonged exposure to urine or stool
- Friction from diapers
- Allergic reactions to diaper materials or skincare products
- Introduction of new foods
- Antibiotic use
What are the signs of a yeast infection?
Yeast infections, caused by Candida fungi, may present with the following symptoms:
- Bright red rash with a scalded appearance
- Rash extending into skin folds or genital area
- Persistent irritation lasting more than 3 days
- Possible oral thrush (white patches in the mouth)
Identifying the Differences: Diaper Rash vs Yeast Infection
While both conditions can cause discomfort for your baby, there are some key differences to help you distinguish between them:
Location of the rash
Diaper rash tends to be more generalized in the diaper area, while yeast infections are often more prominent in the genital region and less so near the anus.
Duration of symptoms
A typical diaper rash usually improves within a few days with proper care. Yeast infections, however, tend to persist beyond 3 days without specific treatment.
Appearance of the affected skin
Diaper rash often presents as red, irritated skin. Yeast infections may appear bright red with a scalded look and can have raised borders or satellite lesions.
Risk Factors and Triggers for Diaper Rash and Yeast Infections
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing diaper rash or yeast infections:
Diaper-changing habits
Infrequent diaper changes or leaving wet diapers on for extended periods can lead to skin irritation.
Diet and new foods
Introducing new foods to your baby’s diet may cause changes in stool consistency, potentially leading to diaper rash. Some common food allergens that may trigger reactions include:
- Dairy products
- Eggs
- Soy
- Wheat
- Citrus fruits
Antibiotic use
Both baby and breastfeeding mother’s use of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast, potentially leading to yeast overgrowth.
Prevention and Care Strategies for Diaper Area Skin Health
Maintaining good hygiene and skincare practices can help prevent and manage diaper rash and yeast infections:
Diaper-changing best practices
- Change diapers frequently, especially after bowel movements
- Gently clean the area with water or mild wipes
- Allow the skin to dry completely before putting on a new diaper
- Apply a protective barrier cream or ointment
Choosing the right diapers and products
Consider trying different diaper brands or styles to find the best fit for your baby. Some parents find success with:
- 100% cotton cloth diapers for improved breathability
- Specialty disposable diapers designed for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic baby care products
Treatment Options for Diaper Rash and Yeast Infections
When faced with persistent skin irritation, consider the following treatment approaches:
Home remedies for diaper rash
- Air drying: Leave the diaper off for short periods to allow the skin to breathe
- Gentle cleansing: Use lukewarm water and a soft cloth instead of wipes
- Apply a thin layer of protective ointment or cream
When to use antifungal treatments
If you suspect a yeast infection, consult your pediatrician. They may recommend:
- Over-the-counter antifungal creams
- Prescription-strength antifungal medications
- Oral antifungal treatment in severe cases
When to Seek Medical Attention for Your Baby’s Rash
While many cases of diaper rash can be managed at home, certain signs warrant a visit to the doctor:
- Rash persists for more than a week despite home treatment
- Severe redness, swelling, or blistering
- Signs of infection, such as fever or pus-filled bumps
- Rash spreads beyond the diaper area
- Baby appears to be in significant discomfort or pain
Impact of Diaper Rash and Yeast Infections on Breastfeeding
Skin irritations in the diaper area can affect breastfeeding in several ways:
Nipple thrush in breastfeeding mothers
Yeast infections can pass between baby and mother during breastfeeding. Signs of nipple thrush include:
- Sore, flaky, or shiny nipples
- Pink or red coloration of the areola
- Shooting pains in the breast during or after feeding
Changes in feeding behavior
Babies with oral thrush or diaper area discomfort may exhibit:
- Reluctance to nurse
- Frequent pulling away from the breast
- Fussiness during feeding sessions
If you notice these signs, consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for guidance on managing breastfeeding while treating the underlying issue.
Long-term Skincare for Babies: Beyond Diaper Rash
Maintaining healthy skin goes beyond treating occasional rashes. Consider these tips for overall infant skincare:
Establishing a gentle skincare routine
- Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers specifically formulated for babies
- Moisturize with hypoallergenic lotions or oils after bathing
- Avoid overwashing, which can strip natural oils from the skin
- Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics
Addressing common infant skin concerns
Be aware of other skin conditions that may affect babies, such as:
- Cradle cap
- Eczema
- Heat rash
- Baby acne
Each of these conditions may require specific care or treatment. Consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s skin health.
By understanding the differences between diaper rash and yeast infections, and implementing proper skincare practices, parents can help keep their baby’s delicate skin healthy and comfortable. Remember to trust your instincts and seek medical advice when needed to ensure the best care for your little one.
How to Tell if it’s Just Diaper Rash or a Yeast Infection • Marie Biancuzzo, RN MS CCL IBCLC
Infant & Child Feeding and Development 0 Comments
Oh no. You see a rash on your baby’s butt. You know it could be just a plain ol’ garden-variety diaper rash. Nearly all babies have it sooner or later. (It’s especially common between 4 and 12 months, and peak incidence occurs around 9-12 months.) But if you’re wondering if it’s a diaper rash or a yeast infection, read on.
The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) summarize the six likely possibilities for a rash in the diaper area.
- Irritation from urine or stool
- Friction
- Candida infection (“yeast”)
- Allergic reaction
- New foods
- Antibiotics
Hence, there are lots of possible explanations.
Is there a difference in signs and symptoms?
Dr. Charles Patrick Davis at MedicineNet says: “There are no significant differences in the signs and symptoms of yeast infections and diaper rash; however, diaper rash caused by yeast is reddish and macerated skin that is painful when touched or rubbed against the diaper, and may extend past the diaper and include the genitals.”
Far be it from me to contradict him. (And, as always, I’m just giving information, not medical advice!) Yet, you’re probably trying to keep your baby out of the doctor’s office, so determining if it’s diaper rash or a yeast infection might be high on your wish list these days.
Therefore, I’ve created a list of pertinent questions you can ask yourself. And, you may want to share your answers with your doctor or your baby’s doctor.
What has already happened?
If you were short on disposable diapers, maybe you delayed a little too long before changing those diapers. During a bout of diarrhea, it can be almost impossible to change the diapers every time your baby oozes some liquid stool. These are common examples that might explain the diaper rash.
If your older infant has eaten some new foods, he may be having an allergic reaction. Here’s a list of common offenders. You know what’s going to happen when that offending food comes out the other end!
If your baby has been on antibiotic therapy, stools may look different, and a rash may follow.
Are you a breastfeeding mother who has had antibiotic therapy? If so, consider the possibility of a yeast infection. Antibiotics knock out your body’s “friendly” bacteria. In that case:
- You might see yeast on your nipples. It doesn’t have to be white. It can be red, or pink. It may have a shiny appearance.
- You might have yeast on your nipples, but you can’t see it.
- You might see thrush in your baby’s mouth or yeast in the diaper area. Or not!
People think that yeast infections only happen “later.” However, candidiasis — yeast or thrush — can happen even during the first week after birth.
Where is the rash located?
A more generalized rash is more likely to be more in the “general” diaper area. A rash due to a food allergy or the stool is more likely to be concentrated in the anal area. A yeast-related rash is more likely to be prominent in the genital area, and less so near the anus.
A yeast rash may look red, or bright red, or it might even have a scalded appearance.
How long is it lasting?
First, try some special techniques and see if there’s any improvement. Simple things:
- gently spraying rather than wiping the area,
- making sure the baby’s skin is completely dry before putting a new diaper on
- leaving the diaper off (air drying) for several minutes
A diaper rash due to skin irritation, if attended to, will probably show improvement in a few days.
A yeast infection in the diaper is more likely to persist past 3 days.
What products are you using?
Skin irritations are often caused by the products you are using, such as laundry detergent. And, you might want to try different brands of diapers, or even the same company’s specialty diapers, such as the Pure Protection line from Pampers. That may help.
Whether cloth diapers are better than disposable has been an ongoing debate for decades. But if it were my kid, I’d go with the idea that cotton is breathable, and I’d use 100% cotton diapers because of their many benefits. You may not want to use them forever. But getting away from disposable plastic diapers, at least for a while, is worth a shot. NuAngel is giving our readers 15% off with coupon code MARIE15.
What else is going on now?
Is your baby refusing to nurse? Or trying to nurse, but then popping on and off the breast?
If so, it might be thrush (the oral form of candidiasis). It will look sort of like white fuzz. It can be nearly anywhere in the mouth. But check on the inside of the upper or lower lips, or on the inside of the cheeks.
Oral thrush might signal a yeast rash in the diaper area. These can co-exist, OR they can be separate. Hard to say, but it’s worth a look.
What’s a parent to do?
Certainly, there are rashes or skin conditions that warrant medical follow up. The AAFP gives very clear directives for when to call the physicians. They also give several strategies for prevention and treatment.
What do you do for your baby’s diaper rash? How do you know it’s time to go to a doctor? Tell me your thoughts below and share with a friend who might benefit!
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Tagged allergies, diaper, diaper rash, rash, yeast infection
Does your baby have severe diaper rash?
Most babies get diaper rash at one point or another. It was a bit of a struggle for me, too, when my kids were young! Diaper rash is a pretty common side effect of, well, wearing a diaper. So when moms call the HealthPartners CareLine asking about it, my first step is to reassure them. Diaper rash happens!
The good news is that most diaper rash can be treated at home. But sometimes it can become more severe, and it’s important to be able to spot severe diaper rash symptoms.
Read on to learn about what causes babies’ diaper rashes, mild and severe diaper rash symptoms, at-home treatments, and when you need to get your little one into the doctor.
What is diaper rash?
While not exclusive to infants, diaper rash is a common form of inflamed skin that appears on diaper-wearing children’s bottoms.
What causes diaper rash?
So why do babies get diaper rash? Unfortunately for you and your little one, a whole list of things can cause diaper rash. They include:
- Irritants. When a baby is born, their skin isn’t used to dyes, scents or soaps. Because of that, babies can have skin reactions during their first few months of life. If your baby has diaper rash, it may be connected to the diapers or wipes you’re using. So, consider swapping products. If you’re using cloth diapers, try washing them in a detergent designed for sensitive skin.
- Dry skin. Frequent bathing can cause your baby’s skin to dry out and lose its natural moisture barrier. That’s why it’s so important to moisturize baby’s bottom, especially after a bath.
- Rubbing or chafing from a too-tight diaper. Yes, it’s possible for a diaper to be too tight. If you can’t get your finger between your baby’s belly and the diaper, it’s too snug. As long as you can’t fit your entire hand in there, it’s tight enough.
- A dirty diaper that’s been left on for too long. Because baby’s skin is so new and sensitive, sitting – or lying – around in a wet or poopy diaper can take a toll. Depending on your baby’s diet, they may even have acidic poop that could lead to a diaper rash. That’s why doctors recommend you change the diaper as soon as you notice it’s dirty.
- Yeast infection. A yeast infection diaper rash is a severe type of diaper rash. This can happen when a baby takes antibiotics, either directly or through breastmilk if mom has been on that type of medicine.
- Bacterial infection. A bacterial skin infection can start small and quickly grow in the warm, wet conditions of your baby’s diaper. This type of severe diaper rash can be dangerous if not treated.
What does diaper rash look like? How to tell the difference between mild and severe diaper rash symptoms
If your baby’s bottom is covered in patches of bright red skin, chances are that it’s diaper rash. Usually, diaper rash is mild and you can treat at home. But when it’s something more serious – such as a bacterial or yeast infection – you should talk to your baby’s doctor. That’s why it’s important to watch out for certain diaper rash symptoms and signs.
Symptoms of mild diaper rash
- Your baby’s skin is pink and dry.
- The rash does not seem painful, or is only mildly uncomfortable for your baby.
- Your baby may react when urine or stool touches the rash, but otherwise they are eating, sleeping and generally acting normal.
Symptoms of severe diaper rash
- Your baby’s skin is red, raw, broken or bleeding.
- Your baby has a rash with blisters, pimples (which may drain pus), sores, boils or other red bumps.
- The rash covers a large area. It may have a bright red border or be worse in the creases and folds.
- The rash is painful to the touch.
- Your baby seems sick, unhappy or unable to sleep.
- There’s blood in baby’s poop.
- You may be wondering “Really? Can diaper rash cause fever?” While it seems weird, the answer is yes if baby’s severe diaper rash is the result of a bacterial skin infection.
Call a nurse line or your baby’s doctor for severe diaper rash treatment next steps
If you notice one or more symptoms of a severe diaper rash, you should call a nurse line or your baby’s doctor for recommendations on what to do next. Call right away if your baby has a fever of 100.4° or more. If your little one has a bacterial infection, your doctor will want to start treatment as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse.
Diaper rash treatment tips
If your baby’s diaper rash is mild, you can treat it at home. If you’re treating it consistently, you should see an improvement within three days. I know this can be hard for babies with multiple caretakers. So, if someone is taking care of your baby, be sure to share your diaper rash treatment instructions with them.
Doctor-recommended home remedies for diaper rash
- Change your baby’s diaper frequently. How much is enough? Baby should be changed every two hours while they’re awake, and at least once during the night. This will help keep the skin under and around the diaper clean and dry, which is how diaper rash gets better. This also prevents it from happening again in the future.
- Bare bottom time. Consider letting your baby spend some time without a diaper on, or put the diaper on loosely. Exposure to air will help the rash heal.
- Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to your baby’s bath. The baking soda will neutralize the acid in stool and urine. It can help to give baby a daily bath while their diaper rash is healing – just make sure to moisturize baby’s skin afterwards.
- Avoid using diaper wipes while there is a rash. Instead, use warm water and a mild soap, and then pat (don’t rub) the area dry.
- If there’s a rash around the anus, you can use Aquaphor, Vaseline or other over-the-counter ointments to help. Be sure to wash your baby’s skin before applying it. And even though they used to be quite popular, I do not recommend using powders or cornstarch because your baby can inhale those. Symptoms of irritation and rash can happen for potty-trained kids, too. Using a similar treatment method of cleaning the area, taking a soothing bath and applying an over-the-counter ointment can help.
Other natural remedies for diaper rash
In addition to the tried-and-true diaper rash treatments recommended by doctors, there are homeopathic remedies that you may consider, too. These treatments haven’t been scientifically proven to treat and heal diaper rash, but they’ve been around and used by many parents for a long time.
Before starting anything new, call your child’s doctor or clinician. Or make it one of your questions at baby’s next wellness check. That said, here are some popular options that can be used in combination with those tried-and-true methods.
- Witch hazel. Available in the pharmacy section of stores, witch hazel is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. So, it may provide your baby some relief from diaper rash. If you want to give it a try, dilute the witch hazel with equal parts water and then use a cotton ball to brush it onto baby’s bottom.
- Aloe vera. For many of us, aloe vera gel is a go-to choice for soothing sunburns and helping to heal cuts. So, it’s not a big surprise that aloe vera is also used by some parents for diaper rash. But choose a gel that’s 100% aloe vera – that way you can avoid ingredients that may be harsh on your baby’s skin.
- Calendula. Similar to aloe vera, calendula is a plant-based extract that comes from the marigold plant. It’s known for its healing qualities and has a pleasant smell. Calendula oil and water-based calendula creams can work well for diaper rash, and are readily available online and at some pharmacies.
- Shampoo clay (bentonite). Yeah, it seems a little weird to use a shampoo ingredient to treat diaper rash, but lots of parents swear by the stuff. In a study published in Nursing and Midwifery Studies, shampoo clay was actually more effective at treating diaper rash than calendula.
When to get help for your baby’s diaper rash
Diaper rash happens. While it’s tough to see your little one so uncomfortable, you both will get through this.
At-home remedies are usually enough to help baby’s bottom to heal – but not always. If you don’t see improvement within three days of consistent at-home treatment, or you notice what could be signs of severe diaper rash, call your baby’s doctor or a nurse line right away. This is especially important if your baby has a fever of 100.4° Fahrenheit or more.
There are several options to get care for your baby’s diaper rash.
Call one of our care lines for advice
HealthPartners patients and members can call our CareLine at 800-551-0859. Park Nicollet patients can call their clinic directly during regular business hours, or 952-993-4665 if it’s after hours. For questions and advice on new baby care, you can also call our 24/7 BabyLine at 612-333-2229.
Get treatment and care virtually
Make a video visit appointment to meet with your preferred primary care doctor or pediatrician. Or start a Virtuwell visit for 24/7 treatment without an appointment. Just answer a few questions, and you’ll get your diagnosis and treatment plan from a board-certified nurse practitioner for $59 or less, depending on your insurance.
Visit a clinic
If extra care or examination is needed, you can always make an appointment with your primary care doctor or your child’s pediatrician.
Baby Care and Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has long been a popular superfood for its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. Therefore, it is not surprising that we are often asked if coconut oil can be used for child care and included in a child’s diet? Our answer: of course you can!
Today we will share our personal recipe for coconut oil infusion, a lifesaver for our two babies. And first, let’s look at the types of coconut oil and recall the rules
- Consult your pediatrician before using coconut products for the first time.
- Even if you don’t have an allergy to coconut oil (which is rare), do a small skin test on the inside of your wrist.
- Whether you are tasting coconut oil for the first time or offering it to a child, start with a teaspoon or even half. The product itself is not traditional for our region, therefore, like any new food, it may seem unusual.
- Always go for certified organic virgin coconut oil and preferably labeled “Virgin” – it is the purest. Other coconut oils may contain chemicals and may have gone through a process of refining and bleaching that stripped the oil of its beauty and beneficial natural healing properties.
Very concise guide to coconut oils
Pure coconut oil Pure coconut oil . Dried coconut meat (copra) is crushed, squeezed and cleaned to obtain pure coconut oil. The color of the oil at temperatures below 25 degrees is white. The scent of coconut is intense. This type of coconut oil does not contain any additional ingredients.
Refined coconut oil Refined coconut oil . This oil is odorless and colorless. It is obtained after coconut oil undergoes thermal, chemical and mechanical processes – refining, bleaching and deodorization.
Virgin coconut oil. This coconut oil is made from fresh coconuts. It fully retains its antioxidant properties, has a pleasant delicate smell and taste of coconut, as it was not heated during the extraction process.
Organic coconut oil / Organic coconut oil. When growing coconut palms, only organic fertilizers, manure, if in a simple way, were used for this type of oil. No chemicals are used during the oil pressing and refining process.
Organic virgin coconut oil . The method of fertilizing the coconut palms is the same as the previous type of oil, plus the high quality of the oil due to the fact that it was pressed from fresh coconuts.
For the last two types of oils, a certificate confirming the organic status of the product is required.
Natural Coconut is by far the most nourishing oil you can use to care for your baby. Most creams and lotions are designed for the upper layers of the skin, and the special molecular structure of coconut oil helps it penetrate into the deeper layers of the epidermis, allowing it to be quickly absorbed, while the effect of using the oil is more noticeable and lasts longer.
And now let’s consider in which cases coconut oil will become your reliable friend and helper
1.
Seborrheic crusts
Seborrheic crusts or dry scalp is a disease that many newborns are prone to in the first weeks after birth. The condition is characterized by flaky scalp and it looks like your little one has dandruff. This is most often seen in the part of the baby’s head that touches the crib and stroller the most.
How it works
- Gently apply a little coconut oil on the baby’s scalp, especially in areas of severe flaking.
- Leave the oil on for 10-20 minutes and then use a towel or comb with very soft bristles to remove the crusts.
- After you have removed the dry skin flakes, you can rinse the baby’s head with warm water or wipe it with a damp towel.
The same method is great for regular nourishment and smoothing of baby hair. After all, the process of combing is still a hassle. But you can always pretend that you are just stroking the baby, before that, imperceptibly smearing your fingers with coconut oil.
2.
Eczema
Eczema is a condition in which the skin becomes very dry and itchy. Eczema often occurs in children, as their skin is very sensitive and dries out quickly. Symptoms usually go away on their own as the child gets older, but eczema is uncomfortable and can lead to infection if the child scratches dry skin
How it works
Use the moisturizing properties of coconut oil as a massage, or simply lubricate the baby’s skin with coconut oil before / after the bath or at least once before bedtime.
With regular massage with coconut oil, the symptoms of eczema gradually decrease and disappear.
3. Diaper rash due to diapers
Almost all children suffer from diaper rash at some point in their lives, even if you have taken every possible precaution. As the name suggests, this is a rash that appears in the groin area of a child. Most often, the rash is red and can spread if left untreated. It will probably be enough for you to change the brand of diapers or their size, and even if this is not the case, do not rush to buy antibiotics and hormonal drugs. Or at least alternate their use with coconut oil. It acts as a protective barrier and prevents further irritation while nourishing and healing injured skin. In addition, unlike traditional creams, coconut oil does not damage diapers.
How it works
- Apply a layer of coconut oil every day to the area of diaper rash after bathing and preferably after every diaper change.
- Be sure to massage with oil, paying special attention to skin folds where any rash is noticed.
Coconut oil’s moisturizing properties help treat diaper rash, while its antibacterial properties prevent its spread and inflammation.
4. Dry and chapped lips
In hot, cold weather or central heating, your baby’s skin is at risk of drying out faster than yours, which can be a serious problem for your baby and make breastfeeding difficult.
How to do it
- Using an available product or just a clean finger, lightly apply the oil to the child’s lips and around the lips. Do not apply too much pressure as this can cause pain and more discomfort.
- You can also lubricate your nipples with coconut oil before or after feeding – double care – for your own health and for your baby.
5. Insect bites
Needless to say, insects prefer baby skin to the epidermis of any other family member. Coconut oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. If you use it to lubricate insect bites, it will reduce the risk of infection and also reduce swelling from bites.
How it works
Just apply a drop of coconut oil on the wound and leave it until the next bath. The oil will speed up the healing process and relieve itching.
6. Homemade Baby Bath
It’s always hard to find the right baby bath that will cleanse your baby’s skin without drying it out. Most of these products contain certain chemicals that have a harmful effect on the skin. You may not be aware of any particular ingredient that causes an allergic reaction in a child.
How it works
- Take an equal amount of coconut oil and castor oil and mix well
- Apply the mixture all over baby’s body while bathing
- Massage lightly to remove dirt and rinse with plain water.
7. We are treated for lice
Most often, children get lice from each other. Or from you. You can comb out the lice and larvae with a fine comb, but such a comb will definitely damage the baby’s scalp. If you are delayed with the treatment of pediculosis, then there is a possibility of lice getting into the ears and eyes of the child. Little pleasant.
What we do
- Use an apple cider vinegar solution to rinse your child’s hair.
- Let hair dry, then apply coconut oil to baby’s hair and scalp.
- If possible, cover your child’s head with a shower cap for at least 20 minutes. If this is not possible and your child (of course!) takes off the shower cap, try to keep the coconut oil in the hair for as long as possible. Then wash it off with plain water and a mild shampoo.
8. The baby is a magic magnet and a casket of all sorts of colds and viruses
Your baby will probably go through many colds and repeated nasal congestion, this is typical for most children. However, any cold can make it difficult for a child to breathe and affect how they eat and sleep. In addition, if left untreated, ARI can develop into inflammation. Instead of using pharmacy rubbing ointments, or if you suddenly did not have them at hand, use cocoa butter or coconut oil melted in a steam bath.
How to proceed
- Take a few drops of any essential oil (such as mint, rosemary, lavender or eucalyptus) and mix it with a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil
- baby breast as a natural safe alternative to chemical based ointments.
Coconut oil is also a natural antiviral and antibacterial agent. Apply oil to and around your child’s nose if they get sick.
9.
Treatment of thrush (candida)
Thrush or candida is a common infection that often occurs in children; manifests itself in the form of a rash and itching. Symptoms may appear in the baby’s mouth, in the diaper area, or around the mouth, for example. Most often, candida looks like milky spots on the tongue, and it mostly affects babies within two months of birth.
How to use coconut oil for thrush in a baby
- If your baby suffers from thrush while breastfeeding, you can drink a teaspoon or a tablespoon of coconut oil daily to ensure your baby gets the extra benefit of your breast milk.
- Apply some coconut oil on and around the nipples just before breastfeeding. This will put the oil directly into the baby’s mouth and help relieve the symptoms of thrush.
10. Baby Toothpaste and Oral Care
When your baby is a few months old, you start massaging his gums to relieve the pain of teething. As soon as the baby gets the first tooth, it becomes a question of using a toothpaste that is safe and healthy for the baby and helps with teething syndrome
How you can help
- Gently apply coconut oil to your child’s gums using your fingers or by lubricating chew toys.
- Gently massage your gums with coconut oil at least twice a day, morning and evening. If the child allows it, of course.
- Coconut oil also helps relieve pain from teething and reduces the chance of infection
11. Coconut oil as a body lotion
Coconut oil is an ideal natural moisturizer. It helps fight baby’s dry skin thanks to the vitamins and healthy fats present in the oil.
Simply rub a little coconut oil in your palms and apply it to your baby’s skin 10-15 minutes before or immediately after bathing.
12. Coconut oil for baby massage
Most parents are aware of the benefits and necessity of baby massage. Everything is simple: use pure coconut oil for massage or equal parts of coconut and olive oil heated in a water bath with the addition of a couple of drops of essential oils (chamomile or lavender, for example)
13. Coconut Oil for Meconium Removal
Coconut oil works wonders when it comes to removing meconium, the tar-like substance that comes out of a baby’s intestines. This is the first bowel movement of a child, it is difficult to wipe it off the skin, and therefore coconut oil will definitely come in handy for you.
14. Coconut oil and baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding mothers can use coconut oil in cooking or consume a small amount of coconut oil twice a day as an energizer and dietary supplement, healing their own body, and passing on the beneficial properties of the oil to the child with breast milk.
- Adding butter to homemade baby food is just as beneficial. Hypoallergenic coconut oil contains lauric acid, which greatly facilitates the process of digestion, thereby relieving the baby of constipation.
- Coconut oil will also help babies absorb the vitamins and nutrients from vegetables and fruits from the start of complementary foods: pumpkins, leafy greens, carrots, apples, and more.
15. Yeast infection in children
Yeast infection is considered the most severe form of diaper rash in children. The infection affects the skin around the thighs, neck, groin area and armpits, as moisture has the ability to accumulate in closed parts of the body. It usually manifests itself as red rashes interspersed with white spots that cause itching and pain.
The antifungal and antibacterial properties of coconut oil prevent skin infections by weakening pathogenic bacteria.
How we can help
This method is well suited for the diaper change process.
- Pour warm boiled water or herbal infusion into a bowl
- Soak a soft cloth in water, then remove excess moisture (unscrew the towel, in other words, but not dry, of course)
- Gently wipe the child with a damp towel, focusing on inflamed areas skin
- Allow the skin to dry for a couple of minutes or blot the crumb with a dry towel
- With clean hands, apply a small amount of coconut oil to the rash area and allow the oil to absorb a little
- Use a new diaper
chewing infection is not will be completely cured.
Eating coconut oil for your child will also help fight a yeast infection. If the baby is not ready to eat it, include oil in your daily diet while breastfeeding.
And now the promised recipe for a universal baby care product for all occasions!!
- 200 g coconut oil
- a handful of dried chamomile (flowers)
- Melt the butter in a water bath and add chamomile to it.
- Keep the mixture in a water bath for 20 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Remove the mixture from the heat, pour into a glass or ceramic dish with a lid and leave in a warm place for 10 days.
- After the chamomile releases its medicinal properties to the oil, heat the mixture again and strain. Use as a universal baby care product.
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Seborrheic dermatitis in children: what to do with “milky crusts” on the head?
Symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in children
Seborrheic dermatitis of the newborn usually develops between the ages of 2 weeks and 12 months: according to statistics, in almost half of babies, reddish or yellow scaly patches appear on the scalp. Quite often, specific crusts (gneiss) are noted – hard, hardened yellow or brown scabs or scales, which are also called “milky crusts”. In older children, seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp usually presents with profuse dandruff.
In infants, seborrheic dermatitis can also sometimes start on the face or in the diaper area and spread to other parts of the body. So, children’s seborrheic dermatitis can affect:
eyebrows, the skin behind the ears, the diaper area, as well as the folds on the neck and under the arms.
Appearance in skin folds may be marked by a moist red rash rather than yellowish scaly patches. Therefore, despite the rather specific symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis in newborns, parents often mistake it for diaper rash (diaper dermatitis).
Seborrheic dermatitis patches do not itch or cause pain or discomfort in general to the child. As a rule, children themselves do not pay attention to this condition, although it can cause serious anxiety among parents.
Parents only need to take proper care of their baby’s skin and make sure that bacterial infection does not join the spots or crusts.
How to take care of the “milky crusts” on the head?
If your child has symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, wash the scalp daily with warm water and a small amount of baby shampoo.
Milk crust care step by step:
Apply plain mineral oil or petroleum jelly to the baby’s scalp about an hour before bathing to loosen the adhesion of the crusts to the skin. When washing your hair, gently massage your scalp with shampoo for a few minutes to remove crusts. Rinse well with water and gently pat your scalp dry with a towel.
Avoid using anti-dandruff shampoo, although it works best, it can also irritate delicate skin and burn your child’s eyes. In any case, before using shampoos or other products with active medicinal ingredients, it is worth discussing this with a pediatrician or dermatologist.
To soften the crusts, gently rub baby products based on mineral oils into the affected area, and then gently comb with a baby comb: this will help to remove the gneiss as gently as possible, without the risk of injury to the scalp.
As a rule, seborrheic dermatitis in children does not linger: the symptoms disappear before the child is one year old.