A baby’s skin barrier takes two years to mature, so the nappy area is delicate. Repeated exposure to urine and stools can cause redness and pain. So as soon as a nappy’s dirty, clean the nappy area thoroughly using the right kind of product. Water on its own is not enough to get rid of urine and stools, which contain bacteria that can cause redness and rashes. Begin cleansing with cotton wool moistened with cleansing water with a high skin tolerance and which doesn’t need rinsing. Always work from the cleanest area to the dirtiest, so from front to back, concentrating on all the skin folds. If the stools have come up as far as the base of the back, lift baby's legs but be careful not to raise his pelvis too high, because that can cause regurgitation. If necessary, turn the baby on his side. Pat the skin folds and nappy area completely dry. If there’s a rash or redness, leave the baby’s bottom exposed to the air so it can dry for a little longer. If the baby’s a boy, start from the foreskin and clean carefully downwards under the scrotum, paying particular attention to the area between the scrotum and anus. For a more creamy texture, choose cleansing lotion or liniment, or wipes for extra ease-of-use. Always apply Vitamin barrier cream 1 2 3 before putting the clean nappy on your baby to prevent, soothe and repair rashes and redness. This cream is effective in all circumstances - even if a baby has diarrhoea or is teething - and is particularly gentle and easy to apply. Spread it over your baby's bottom in a thick, uniform layer. The two key steps in protecting babies from irritation are meticulous cleansing and applying cream at each nappy change.
