Concerned About Diaper Rash?
For the past week, my 13-month-old son, who weighs 23 pounds, has been dealing with a persistent rash. Despite using Aquaphor and Triple Paste, we haven't observed any improvement. The irritation is localized in his groin and pubic region. Any advice would be appreciated!
Answers (1)
7/27/2025, 12:20:35 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re understandably concerned about your son's persistent diaper rash. When diaper rash is resistant to standard treatments like Aquaphor and Triple Paste, it's important to consider potential causes and take specific steps to promote healing.
Explanation: Diaper rash can occur for various reasons, including prolonged exposure to moisture, friction, skin irritation from the diaper itself, or even allergic reactions. Given that the rash has not improved after a week of using topical barriers, it might be a sign that a different approach is needed.
Next Steps:
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Keep the Area Dry: Ensure that the diaper area is thoroughly dried after cleaning. Consider letting your son go without a diaper for short periods, if possible, to allow air circulation; this can help soothe the rash.
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Gentle Cleansing: Use plain water or a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to clean the area. Avoid wipes that contain alcohol or fragrances, which can further irritate sensitive skin.
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Try a Different Barrier Cream: Switch to a cream that contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient. These creams can provide better protection and help with healing. Look for products specifically labeled for diaper rash.
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Monitor for Signs of Infection: Keep an eye on the rash for signs like increased redness, swelling, oozing, or a foul smell, which may indicate an infection. If you notice these symptoms, it may require further treatment.
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Check Diaper Fit: Ensure the diaper fits well; a tight diaper can increase friction and moisture retention.
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Review Diet and Potential Allergens: If your son has recently tried new foods, consider that some may provoke skin reactions. Keep track of any dietary changes and rashes.
If the rash does not improve significantly with these changes in 2-3 days or if you notice concerning symptoms, it might be best to seek additional advice from a healthcare professional. Keep monitoring the situation, and I hope your son feels better soon!
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