Eczema Care - Nappies

A large proportion of babies with eczema do not get it in their nappy area. This is thought to be because of the humidity and the presence of urine which can act as a natural moisturiser. Urea, present in urine in large quantities, is added to some moisturisers by manufacturers because it penetrates the skin quickly and attracts water, one of the things lacking in dry skin.

But, urine can irritate some children and aggravate those babies with eczema. If your baby or toddler has eczema in their nappy area, here are a few tips that can help:-

• change nappies frequently to avoid soiled nappies being in contact with
 the skin

• wash the soiled skin well with a soap substitute

• at every nappy change apply a thick layer of a protective moisturiser on  the skin

Sometimes it may be necessary to see your GP or dermatologist. There are some very good steroid based creams available on prescription that can be used sparingly for short periods of time in order to get the eczema under control.

It is also a good idea to let the skin breath by taking nappies off whenever possible, eg in between nappy changes and after a bath.

There are many different brands of disposable and reusable nappies available. It is worth experimenting by trying different disposables, or by switching to reusable nappies.