Setting the Record Straight on Diaper Rash and Disposable Diapers

Abstract

Skin in the diapered area is continuously threatened by exposure to changes in pH levels, overhydration, mechanical friction, and fecal enzymes, making diaper rash a common occurrence among babies. Up to one third of infants may exhibit clinical symptoms of diaper rash at any time, and more than half of babies between the ages of 4 and 15 months develop diaper rash at least once in a 2-month period. Despite misperceptions that disposable diapers are related to an increase in diaper rash, the incidence of diaper dermatitis is on the decline, largely due to significant improvements in disposable diaper construction and materials. Modern-day disposable diapers are specifically designed to limit exposure to irritants in the diaper area, reduce overhydration, inhibit skin barrier compromise, and help maintain normal skin pH levels and have been thoroughly evaluated for safety and skin compatibility.

Prevention, Treatment and Parent Education for Diaper Dermatitis

“…As the technology of disposable diapers improves, some experts no longer recommend cloth diapers for infants with irritant diaper dermatitis (Humphrey et al., ). Disposable diapers are aimed at limiting contact with irritants, preventing overhydration of the skin, maintaining appropriate pH levels and preventing a break in the skin barrier (Clark‐Greuel, Helmes, Lawrence, Odio, & White, ).…”

“…As the technology of disposable diapers improves, some experts no longer recommend cloth diapers for infants with irritant diaper dermatitis (Humphrey et al, 2006). Disposable diapers are aimed at limiting contact with irritants, preventing overhydration of the skin, maintaining appropriate pH levels and preventing a break in the skin barrier (Clark-Greuel, Helmes, Lawrence, Odio, & White, 2014). Baby powder or cornstarch is not recommended for use in the diaper area, as these substances promote the growth of bacteria and candida and can worsen diaper dermatitis when used (AWHONN, 2013).…”

Diagnosis and management of diaper dermatitis in infants with emphasis on skin microbiota in the diaper area

“…8 The predominant form of diaper dermatitis is irritant contact dermatitis, the most common rash of the diaper area caused by a combination of factors such as: extended periods of wetness and urine in the diaper, friction, and mechanic abrasion; the presence of bile salts and other irritants in feces that break down the protective lipids and proteins in the top layer of skin; the increase in the skin pH levels by a mixture of urine and feces; and occasionally the presence of microorganisms. 9,10 Although rashes within the diaper area are most often just simple cases of irritant contact dermatitis, which are easily treated by topical treatments and parental education on proper diapering practices, severe forms of diaper dermatitis require medical attention. 5,11 The latter could indicate a more serious, yet unrelated, condition that has manifested in the diaper area.…”

Problems of Prevention and Treatment of Diaper Dermatitis in Children within the Current Concepts of the Disease Pathogenesis

“…Высыпания в области подгузника вызваны соче-танием таких факторов, как длительный контакт с мочой в подгузнике, трение, действие солей желчных кислот и прочих раздражителей в фекалиях, которые разрушают защитный слой липидов и белков кожи. Под действием мочи и кала повышается уровень pH кожи, и происходит бактериальная диссеминация [7,8].…”