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Why is your baby's bottom red? And the Penticare+ solution

Nine times out of ten, it is moisture and rubbing. The good news: it can be prevented, with simple habits and a diaper that keeps the skin dry.

Why it turns red

A baby's skin is thin. When it stays in contact with urine and stool, it gets irritated: that is diaper dermatitis, the most common cause of a red bottom. Diarrhoea and teething, which makes babies swallow more saliva, make it worse. Sometimes it is a yeast infection, especially after antibiotics: the redness is then brighter in the folds, with small spots around it. More rarely, an allergy to a fragrance or preservative in wipes or cream.

The habits that prevent it

Change as soon as the diaper is wet or soiled, without waiting. Clean gently with water or with alcohol-free, fragrance-free wipes, then pat, never rub. Leave the bottom in the open air for a few minutes at each change: it is the most effective habit and it costs nothing. Apply a thick layer of zinc-oxide barrier cream. And do not fasten the diaper tightly, especially at night.

The Penticare+ solution

Skin turns red when it stays damp: the diaper must absorb fast and keep it dry. That is what the absorption channel of Penticare and Fresh Baby diapers does, along with their soft top sheet that limits rubbing. Size matters as much as the diaper: too small marks the skin and holds moisture against it, too big leaks. Your baby's weight, printed on the pack, is the only reliable guide. For nights, take the size that leaves a finger of room at the waist and thighs.

When to see a doctor

If the redness does not improve within two or three days despite these habits, if it oozes, peels, blisters or crusts, if it is very painful, if it appears during a course of antibiotics, or if your baby has a fever: show it to a health professional.