What are the symptoms of nappy rash?

The nappy rash is a skin inflammation located in the buttock, groin, and thigh area. It is also known as diaper dermatitis and is a fairly common condition in infants and children , although it does not exclude adults. Nappy rash results from a skin reaction to prolonged exposure to moisture, an environment that weakens the skin barrier, and friction. In some cases, the nappy rash can be exacerbated by a fungal infection, mainly by the fungus Candida albicans, which thrives in warm and moist environments. Although it is less common, diaper dermatitis can also occur due to poor hygiene or skin contact with allergens, such as the fragrance of wipes or cleaning products. Nappy rash is accompanied by several symptoms, detailed below.

Symptom No. 1 of nappy rash: redness.

As nappy rash is a skin inflammation, the first accompanying symptom is the presence of redness. This can appear on the buttocks, in the groin fold, on the thigh or even across the entire affected area, forming patches of varying sizes. It can even occur that the redness extends to the genital areas, particularly when the nappy rash progresses without adequate care or when moisture and friction persist. The intensity of the redness can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the inflammation, the duration of the nappy rash, and the individual's skin sensitivity.

The colour of redness can also slightly differ from one person to another, being more or less dark depending on the individual's phototype. In fair skin, redness usually takes on a pink to bright red hue, while in darker skin, it can appear brownish or purplish. Skin sensitivity also plays a role, with some people being more prone to marked inflammations.

Symptom No. 2 of nappy rash: skin flaking.

In addition to redness, nappy rash can be accompanied by skin peeling, meaning that thin layers of skin may detach from the surface of the epidermis. The peeling can be mild, giving the skin a dry and slightly scaly appearance, or more pronounced, with areas where the epidermis appears to crumble in patches. Their intensity again depends on the stage of the nappy rash and individual skin sensitivity.

Symptom No. 3 of nappy rash: itching.

Nappy rash causes irritation in the areas it affects. The reddened skin often becomes sensitive to touch and tends to be warmer. It is not uncommon for this irritation to be accompanied by varying degrees of itching across the entire area and sensations of burning. These symptoms of nappy rash are particularly difficult for babies to endure, who do not understand their cause. They are often responsible for their crying, which can sometimes bewilder parents who are doing their best to alleviate their discomfort.

Even though itching can be bothersome, it is advised against scratching the area affected by nappy rash as this could worsen the irritation and lead to an infection, making treatment more challenging. To soothe them, it is better to apply cold, some calendula extract or Roman chamomile hydrosol, known for their calming properties.

Symptom No. 4 of nappy rash: blisters and lesions.

If not properly managed, the nappy rash can worsen and blisters may appear on the skin. These small swellings filled with clear fluid or blood should never be punctured as this could promote bacterial or fungal infections. Indeed, in case of rupture, the skin loses its protective barrier function, thus allowing pathogenic microorganisms to come into contact with the epidermis more easily. Moreover, a bacterial or fungal infection can exacerbate inflammation, slow down healing, and increase pain, which makes the skin even more susceptible to new irritations.

In addition to blisters, severe nappy rash can lead to the formation of micro-lesions, which are superficial tears in the skin. These can be painful as they expose the nerve endings of the epidermis and heal slowly due to the area's constant contact with moisture. It is also possible that these lesions may be accompanied by minor bleeding, caused by the alteration of the skin's structure, thus requiring a swift medical intervention for the nappy rash.