Natural treatments for managing nappy rash?

The aloe vera gel, extracted from the plant of the Asphodelaceae family, is highly popular in skincare. Indeed, when applied topically, aloe vera gel is a good humectant, capable of retaining water in the stratum corneum. This property is linked to its richness in hygroscopic molecules and amino acids, such as histidine, serine, arginine, threonine, and glycine, which enhance water retention in the epidermis. Its bioactive compounds, like acemannan, also give it anti-inflammatory and healing properties that can alleviate redness and promote skin regeneration. Moreover, aloe vera gel has antimicrobial virtues, suggesting a potential role in preventing secondary infections that can complicate nappy rash.

Several studies have highlighted the potential of aloe vera gel to soothe nappy rash. One such study involved 32 babies suffering from this condition. The progression of the skin inflammation was monitored by researchers over three days, and a significant improvement was recorded. These results, detailed further below, align with data from other studies, which have also demonstrated that aloe vera gel could be a useful ingredient for nappy rash.

With soothing and protective qualities, shea butter is a beneficial compound for nappy rash. Indeed, its richness in fatty acids allows it to restore the weakened skin barrier and limit irritations caused by friction and moisture. Shea butter also has anti-inflammatory properties derived from the cinnamic esters it contains, enabling it to help ease redness and skin discomfort. Lastly, by forming a protective film on the skin, shea butter helps prevent maceration, a key factor in the worsening of nappy rash, while promoting the repair of the epidermis.

While the effect of shea butter alone on nappy rash has not been the subject of studies to date, a study was conducted using a barrier cream made from shea butter, zinc oxide and panthenol on 10 children with nappy rash. The degree of erythema was clinically evaluated on a 5-point severity scale (from 0 = no erythema to 4 = severe erythema), at the beginning of the study and 30 days later. At the end of the 30 days, a significant improvement in nappy rash was recorded, with an average score dropping from 3.2 ± 0.8 to 1.1 ± 0.9, without any side effects. It is difficult to conclude on the specific action of shea butter as it was combined with zinc oxide, a molecule known for its effectiveness against nappy rash. However, it can be assumed that it could be a potentially beneficial natural supplement, in support of traditional treatments.

Paired with soothing properties, breast milk has long been used to alleviate minor ailments in children, including nappy rash. It notably contains immunoglobulins and lactoferrin, compounds beneficial in limiting the proliferation of bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, breast milk is rich in fatty acids that promote hydration and regeneration of the epidermis, while forming a light protective film to reduce friction. Applied directly to the affected areas, breast milk can thus help to soothe the redness caused by nappy rash.

The effectiveness of breast milk on nappy rash was tested during a clinical study involving 62 infants. These infants were divided into two groups: breast milk was applied daily after each nappy change to half of the babies, while a barrier cream containing 20% zinc oxide was used on the other half. The rash was evaluated before and after seven days of treatment. The results, gathered in the table below, show a comparable, if not better effectiveness of breast milk compared to the barrier cream. It thus appears to be an interesting option for soothing nappy rash.

The calendula oil macerate is one of the most renowned natural ingredients for relieving irritations. This compound works by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ) and the synthesis of prostaglandins. Calendula also reportedly reduces the level of nitric oxide (NO), a pro-inflammatory mediator produced by macrophages. Its emollient action also allows it to soften weakened skin and limit discomfort. By strengthening the skin barrier, the calendula oil macerate helps to better protect the skin from external aggressions, thus reducing the symptoms of nappy rash.

The effect of calendula was tested in a recent clinical trial involving 34 newborns with nappy rash. The degree of erythema was clinically assessed on a 5-point severity scale (from 0 = no erythema to 4 = severe erythema) before and after application three times a day for ten days of a cream with 15% calendula extract. The table below summarises the progression of the erythema and shows an interesting effect of this botanical extract, at least when incorporated into a formulation. These results suggest that calendula could be a good complementary solution for nappy rash, although more work still needs to be done.

Valued for its calming properties, chamomile hydrosol appears to be a natural ally for soothing the skin in cases of nappy rash. Owing to its richness in anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly flavonoids and bisabolol, it may help to reduce redness and feelings of discomfort. Particularly suitable for sensitive skin, chamomile hydrosol could also be used to care for skin weakened by nappy rash.

A study examined the effects of chamomile on nappy rash in 60 infants, divided into two groups. Both groups received the same cream, except that the one given to the babies in the second group contained 3% chamomile. After daily application for six days, the nappy rash decreased by 48%, compared to 65% in the control group, but the difference was deemed non-significant by the research group. Therefore, more studies are needed to conclude on the effectiveness of chamomile hydrosol for nappy rash.