Nappy rash is common in babies and can look alarming, especially in premature babies who often have more delicate skin and can end up with quite sore patches of broken skin. Nappy rash looks like small patches of red or pink blotches or spots in and around the nappy area.

Babies have delicate skin and collections of wee and faeces in their nappy can cause nappy rash. This can happen even when nappies are changed very regularly and so you should not see it as a sign of you being a bad parent. There are, however, ways to reduce the occurance and severity of nappy rash. Steps should be taken as soon as possible as on the odd occasion nappy rash can turn into an infection if left untreated.

Steps to take include;

• Leave baby without a nappy as much as possible to let air get to their skin.
• Change baby?s nappy regularly so as to avoid any wee or faeces staying next to their skin for too long
• Before replacing their nappy dry the skin thoroughly and put on a barrier cream
• Use unscented baby wipes or, if possible, cotton wool and warm water instead
• If the nappy rash gets worse or does not improve after a few days then seek the advice of your doctor or health visitor