How to Use Aloe Vera for Diaper Rash: 6 Remedies, Prevention Tips
If you are a parent, you will most likely have to deal with diaper rash in the first or second year of your child’s life.
Diaper rash, also known as diaper dermatitis, is a common skin disorder in babies that may occur at any time due to irritation by urine, feces, moisture, or friction. [1]
Diaper rash is usually harmless and can be treated with a few natural remedies.
You can quickly treat and prevent this skin problem using aloe vera home remedies.
In this article, you will learn how to use aloe vera for diaper rash remedies, its causes, symptoms, and prevention tips.
Aloe Vera for Diaper Rash In Babies- What Research Says
People have used aloe vera since early times as a miracle cure. [2]
Aloe vera was used as early as 6,000 years ago in Egypt as a natural remedy. [3]
Aloe vera-based extract is a promising remedy. [4]
The bioactive components of aloe vera have effective antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulatory effects. [5]
The name aloe vera derives from the Arabic word “alloeh” meaning “shining bitter substance,” while “vera” in Latin means “true.” [6]
Aloe is a key ingredient in a variety of medications for healing and skincare. [7]
Aloe vera also does wonder for any skin irritation. Therefore, it can be a surprisingly effective treatment for diaper rash.
6 Best Ways to Use Aloe Vera for Diaper Rash in Babies
1. Aloe Vera and Oatmeal
Aloe vera accelerates healing and inhibits inflammation. [8]
Oatmeal has been used to relieve irritation for centuries and can be an effective diaper rash remedy because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. [9, 10, 11]
Together, they can be a home remedy for diaper rash that is easy to make and safe to use.
Recommended Directions:
- Wash the diaper area with warm water before applying.
- Mix 1/3 cup of regular oatmeal with a few tablespoons of aloe vera gel extracted from a leaf you have washed.
- Rub it gently on your child’s bottom and leave it on for at least 20 minutes.
- Do this three times a day until the rash goes away.
- You may refrigerate the gel you have not used.
- Use the cold gel of leaves for an additional soothing effect.
RELATED: Coconut Oil for Diaper Rash: 5 Easy Home Remedies
2. Aloe Vera and Calendula Oil
Calendula contains anti-inflammatory linoleic acid. Its high carotenoid content reduces irritation. [12]
Aloe vera soothes your baby’s skin.
Aloe vera and Calendula can safely and effectively treat diaper rash in infants.
Recommended Directions:
- Clean and dry your baby’s diaper area.
- Mix ½ tablespoons of aloe vera with three tablespoons of calendula oil.
- Store in the fridge until it is cool apply to the affected area.
RELATED: 12 Health Benefits of Calendula Oil (#2 is Impressive)
3. Aloe Vera and Coconut Oil
Aloe vera moisturizes your child’s skin and provides soothing relief.
Coconut oil has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects that make it useful for topical applications. [13, 14]
Aloe vera and coconut oil are both safe and gentle for your child’s skin.
Recommended Directions:
- Mix equal parts aloe vera and coconut oil and massage
- It carefully on the affected area after cleaning it thoroughly with warm water and patting it dry with a washcloth.
- Do this every day until the rash goes away.
4. Aloe Vera and Lavender Oil
Essential oils have antibacterial, anti-fungal properties and anti-inflammatory abilities.[15, 16, 17]
They were used for more than 5000 years as a natural remedy and are currently widely used in medicine. [18]
Aloe vera has an anti-inflammatory component called B-sitosterol.
Lavender essential oil is natural and safe. Coupled with the curative qualities of aloe vera, it is a potent cure for diaper rash.
Recommended Directions:
- Mix 1/4 cup of aloe vera with 5 drops of lavender essential oil diluted with ten drops of any carrier oil you like.
- Spray just enough of this mixture to coat your baby’s bottom every time you change their diaper.
RELATED: 11 Health Benefits of Lavender Oil That You Should Know
5. Aloe Vera and Breast Milk
Breast milk has anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious, and immuno-regulatory effects. [19, 20] It can be an easy solution for diaper rash.
Aloe vera reduces pain and discomfort.
Recommended Directions:
- Mix a few drops of breast milk with aloe vera and let it air dry on the affected area.
- Do this at least once every day until the rash goes away.
6. Aloe Vera Gel
When you don’t have oatmeal, calendula oil, coconut oil, lavender essential oil, or breast milk, aloe vera itself can be a viable option for treating diaper rash.
Recommended Directions:
- To use, take a mature leaf and cut it into sections with a knife.
- Extract the gel from inside the leaf and apply on to the baby’s skin.
- Apply a few times a day until the rash subsides.
RELATED: 12 Ways to Use Aloe Vera Gel for Acne
Causes and Symptoms of Diaper Rash
Soiling: If a soiled diaper has been left on for too long, your child can become more prone to diaper rash. A wet diaper can be harsh on sensitive skin.
Rubbing: If the diaper rubs abrasively against your child’s skin, your child’s skin may become sore and irritated, breaking out into a rash.
Frequent bowel movement: When your child starts consuming solid food, it increases the frequency of their bowel movements. If you do not change diapers more regularly, your child may develop a rash.
Infection: Bacteria and yeast flourish in moist environments such as inside a diaper and contribute to rashes.
Medicine: If your child is taking antibiotics, diarrhea caused by the medication can result in a diaper rash.
Symptoms of diaper rash include red, inflamed, tender-looking skin and lesions in the diaper. Your child may also cry or move too much when you are changing their diaper or touching the diaper area.
Tips To Prevent Diaper Rash
Avoid skin irritation and prevent diaper rash by adopting the following measures:
- Change the diaper frequently.
- Clean thoroughly and dry the diaper area regularly.
- Give your baby an hour of diaper-free time every day.
- Avoid scented diapers.
- Wash your hand after changing the diaper.
- Bathe them every day.
- Apply topic barriers before putting the diaper on.
- Use a clean washcloth.
- Always be gentle when cleaning the diaper area.
- If you use wipes, make sure they are soft and tender.
- Make sure no lotion or baby powder you are using is scented.
When to See a Doctor?
Diaper rash is usually not a cause for concern, and it can be easily solved at home. But, there are certain circumstances in which you should consult a doctor. The cases include:
- Severe rashes
- Rashes that worsen even after home treatment
- Rashes that bleed, ooze or itch
- Rashes that affect urination and bowel movement
- High fever
- Rashes that have spread to other parts of the body
- Rashes that have pus-like leakage or yellow crusting
- Diarrhea for more than 48 hours [5, 6]
For such cases, it’s best to visit your doctor for a check-up. But, for minor diaper rashes, you can turn to aloe vera gel for immediate relief.
Bottom Line
Most babies have diaper rash.
The primary cause of diaper rash is a soiled nappy, chafing, new food, bacteria or yeast infection, and antibiotics.
Diaper rash can be uncomfortable for your child, but it is usually not an indication of a severe condition. With treatment, diaper rash can subside quickly.
You may even treat and prevent it naturally using aloe vera gel.
