Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Neeraj Kumar
MD, DCH – HOD of Paediatrics, Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital
Introduction
Taking care of your baby during the summer can be a tricky business. Since the skin of your baby is sensitive, it is more likely for your baby to have diaper rashes, especially in the summer. Like adults, weather change also affects babies. In winter, you may need to frequently apply moisturizer to your baby’s skin while in summer you may need to bath them more frequently.
According to the best childcare experts in Chandigarh, you need to follow different routines for your child for each season. The scorching heat of summer can take a toll on your baby and make diaper rashes more likely. If you have been worried about the same in the season, the best child specialists in Chandigarh have got you covered.
Here is how you can prevent diaper rashes in summer and keep your baby’s skin cool:
Hydration is the Key
In summer, just like the body, your baby’s skin may also get dehydrated. Surprisingly, babies tend to get dehydrated faster than adults. Hence, it is important to keep hydrating your baby in the summer. However, if your baby is less than 6 months of age and is breasted, you may not need to give additional water. If your baby is formula-fed, make sure to give boiled and cooled water in summer.
For babies more than 6 months of age, make sure that you give fluids to them regularly in the form of fruits, fruit juices, water, or porridge.
Give Them a Good Bath
Give a good bath to your babies to keep their skin moist and supple. If your baby is fond of baths, you can frequently bathe them up to 3 times a day. The expert pediatricians in Chandigarh recommends warm water for bathing compared to hot water as it helps prevent skin dryness. Once you give a bath, make sure to apply baby moisturizer.
Dealing with Heat Rashes
Heat rashes are very common in babies. This usually happens due to extra perspiration in summer. You can find these rashes more prominent in the neck, diaper, and shoulder areas of your baby. The best pediatricians in Chandigarh recommend keeping these areas dry and washing only with cool water. You can also cool these areas with a fan or dab with a towel.
Make Them Wear the Right Clothes
Summers are pure cotton clothes for your babies. Cotton is suitable for baby’s skin in the summer as it helps their skin to breathe. Make sure that you do not cover them with too much clothing as it can lead to heat rashes. However, if you still notice a rash, consult the best doctors in Chandigarh.
Dealing with Heat Hours
The heat is at its peak between 10 AM to 5 PM. The best child specialist in Chandigarh recommends keeping your baby indoors during this period. If you need to go out urgently, make sure that you apply baby sunscreen and protect their body with long-sleeved cotton clothes.
Let them Breathe without Nappy
To prevent diaper rashes, it is important to let the diaper area breathe. Using nappies in the summer can warm the diaper area and cause excessive sweating. Hence, make sure that you give some nappy free time to your baby for some time.
Dealing with Insects
Summers also give rise to insects. Hence, make sure that you protect your baby from mosquitoes and bugs. You can either use a natural insect spray or a cream to keep your baby safe. However, make sure to first consult your pediatricians in Chandigarh before applying anything to your baby’s skin.
Do Not Give an Oil Massage
Oil massaging is good for winters. In summer, it can make it difficult for their skin to breathe. However, if you still wish to give a massage, make sure to only use a light olive oil and massage gently.
Give Them a Pool Time
If your baby enjoys being in the water, give them a chance to play in the pool. You can make this activity is more fun by adding some bath toys and letting your baby splash the water.
Give Them the Right Food
Certain baby foods including tomato or foods containing citric acid changes the pH level of poop and may cause diaper rashes. In summer, feed them more starchy food items to maintain an optimal pH level.
Conclusion
Summers are difficult for both adults and babies. It is more difficult for babies as their skin is sensitive and prone to rashes. You can, however, avoid these rashes by following the above tips. If you still notice prominent rashes on your baby’s body, visit our pediatricians at Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital today.
FAQs:
Diaper rashes are more common in summer because the heat and humidity create a perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to thrive. Babies also sweat more, leading to increased moisture in the diaper area, which can cause irritation and rashes.
In summer, you should change your baby's diaper more frequently, ideally every 2 to 3 hours or immediately after they soil it. This helps keep the diaper area dry and reduces the risk of rashes.
Using breathable, super-absorbent diapers can help keep your baby’s skin dry. Cloth diapers can also be a good option as they allow better air circulation compared to some disposable diapers.
Applying a barrier cream or ointment, such as one containing zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, can help protect your baby’s skin from moisture and irritants. Avoid using talcum powder, as it can cause respiratory issues.
Yes, home remedies like giving your baby an oatmeal bath, using diluted apple cider vinegar during diaper changes, or applying a thin layer of coconut oil can help soothe and prevent diaper rashes. Always check with your pediatrician before trying new remedies.
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