| "While to the untrained eye diaper rash might not seem like something to cry about, those in the know (aka parents) would likely offer a different opinion. That's because the red, sore skin that results from diaper rash can be frustrating to treat and cause considerable discomfort for infants. Fortunately, dermatologists -- physicians who specialize in all aspects of skin care -- can help parents treat this common skin problem." " Speaking today at the 65th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologist Mary K. Spraker, MD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Emory University in Atlanta, Ga., discussed practical ways to prevent diaper dermatitis and explained how advances in the design of disposable diapers and a new prescription medication are helping to reduce this irritating condition." " There are two common forms of diaper dermatitis -- simple "irritant" diaper dermatitis and candida or "yeast" diaper dermatitis. Irritant diaper dermatitis occurs when feces and fecal enzymes, especially when combined with urine, inflame a baby's delicate skin if they are in contact with it for a significantly long period of time. The best way to prevent this type of diaper rash is to remove a soiled diaper as soon as possible." " "Over the years, there have been considerable improvements in the design of modern disposable diapers and, as a result, severe diaper rash is not as common as it once was," said Dr. Spraker. "Numerous studies have shown that infants who wear today's disposable diapers get fewer diaper rashes than infants who wear traditional cloth diapers."" " Dr. Spraker explained that the super-absorbent gel that was added to the core of disposable diapers in the mid-1980s can absorb many times its weight in moisture. This gel also grabs on to the wetness without letting go of it, trapping urine in the center of the diaper and leaving the surface of the diaper that touches the infant's skin nearly completely dry. Since wet, softened skin is less healthy, it is more easily irritated by fecal material and more easily infected by candida. The introduction of this super-absorbent gel marked a significant advancement in preventing diaper rash." " In the 1990s, a breathable membrane similar in design to the popular fabric in hiking and sport outerwear garments that keeps rain out but "breathes" to prevent excess perspiration was added to higher-end disposable diapers. This membrane allows water vapor to escape through the cover of the diaper, which reduces the humidity inside the diaper and keeps the diapered skin drier and healthier." " In addition to using disposable diapers that feature these design improvements, Dr. Spraker recommends the following tips to prevent and treat persistent diaper rash:" " -- Promptly change diapers containing stool. Since urine by itself is not irritating, mildly wet diapers do not need to be changed immediately. Industry studies show that most parents change a baby's diaper six to seven times per day on average." "
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