Causes and Remedies for Diaper Rash
Baby’s skin is very delicate and can easily become irritated by the friction of a diaper. Think of it like when the tag inside your shirt rubs your skin until it’s raw. To help prevent this, you can try loosening the diaper and letting your baby’s skin air out. Applying an organic, protective solution might also help. Sometimes, diaper rash is caused by allergic reactions to detergents, wipes, diapers, or clothing. Switching to an all-natural laundry detergent and using natural diapers and baby wipes, like those from Seventh Generation, can make a big difference. It’s also important to dress your newborn in organic clothing; brands like Hanna Anderson or UnderTheNile.com offer good options.
When stool or urine stays on your baby’s skin for too long, it can cause irritation and lead to diaper rash. This happens because stool and urine can contain bacteria, yeast, parasites, or other toxins. Make sure to change your baby’s diaper regularly and clean their skin thoroughly. Applying an organic solution can create a barrier against these harmful substances. Another common cause of diaper rash is heat rash, or prickly heat rash, which occurs when your baby’s skin gets too hot under the diaper. Frequent airing and cooling of your baby’s skin can help alleviate this.
Leaving moisture on the skin for too long makes it more permeable and vulnerable to bacterial or yeast infections and damage. Changing diapers frequently can ease discomfort and minimize symptoms of diaper rash. Consider using a more absorbent, all-natural diaper for better results.
Are Diaper Rash Creams Safe?
When you use commercial diaper rash creams on your baby’s irritated skin, you might be exposing them to toxic chemicals. For example, talc, commonly found in many children’s products, is a known carcinogen. Be cautious of the following ingredients in diaper rash creams or powders:
– DMDM Hydantoin: A type of formaldehyde
– Parabens: Can cause skin irritation and immune system issues
– Triclosan: Linked to hormone disruption
How to Make My “Organic Diaper Rash Remedy”
I created this formula at the request of many mothers, including my wife. I’ve used it with my two children, who never had diaper rash, and I’ve recommended it to many new mothers. Making your own organic, toxin-free diaper rash remedy at home is economical, fun, environmentally friendly, and gentle on your baby’s skin.
Ingredients Needed:
– 3 ounces organic extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil
– 3 ounces organic hempseed oil (I use the Living Harvest Brand)
– 1 ounce organic raw unprocessed extra virgin coconut oil (solid at room temperature)
– 9 drops organic lemongrass essential oil
– 9 drops organic tea tree essential oil
Directions:
Combine the olive, coconut, and hemp oils in a glass bowl (Pyrex bowls work great) and heat on the lowest setting on your stove until the coconut oil has melted and blended with the olive and hemp oils. You can also hold the glass bowl slightly above the burner. Once the oils are melted, remove from heat, stir, and let cool for 5 minutes. Add the lemongrass and tea tree essential oils and stir well. Store the solution at room temperature in a container with a lid at your changing area. Apply to the diaper area with an organic cotton ball after cleaning your baby’s skin and before putting on a new diaper 2-3 times daily or every third diaper change. If your baby has a reaction, discontinue use immediately and let me know.
It’s best to make small batches to keep the oils fresh and active, so I don’t recommend doubling or tripling the recipe. Avoid refrigeration as it will solidify the oils. This combination of oils will moisturize your baby’s skin, protect it, and disinfect it without disrupting the skin’s natural protective properties.
Let me know how this works for you!
