From the Guidelines
Petroleum jelly should not be used as a first-line treatment for nappy rash, instead, an emollient should be used to reduce friction and clean the nappy area. When considering the treatment of nappy rash, it's essential to prioritize the use of emollients to create a protective barrier and reduce friction, as recommended in the British Journal of Dermatology 1. The use of emollients is supported by recent clinical practice guidelines, which suggest using emollient and liners to reduce friction from nappy/diaper elastic on skin 1.
Key Considerations
- Use an emollient to clean the nappy area, as this helps to reduce friction and prevent further irritation 1.
- Apply a hydrogel dressing on wounds in the nappy area to promote healing and protect the skin 1.
- Ensure the nappy is well-fitted and remove the outer elastic layer around the legs to reduce friction 1.
- Consider using a nappy liner covered in emollient to reduce movement of the nappy on the skin 1.
Treatment Approach
When treating nappy rash, it's crucial to prioritize the use of emollients and other evidence-based methods to reduce friction and promote healing, rather than relying on petroleum jelly 1. By following these recommendations, parents and caregivers can help to prevent and treat nappy rash effectively, reducing the risk of complications and promoting healthy skin.
From the Research
Petroleum Jelly for Nappy Rash
- Petroleum jelly has been used as a treatment option for atopic dermatitis and can be effective in trapping moisture against the skin, leaving behind a thin layer of product 2.
- However, there is limited direct evidence on the use of petroleum jelly specifically for nappy rash.
- A study on a zinc oxide and petrolatum-based formulation delivered through a novel disposable diaper showed significant reduction in skin erythema and diaper rash compared to a control diaper 3.
- Another study suggested that topical skin barrier repair cosmetic products, such as those containing zinc oxide, are the mainstay treatment to cure and/or prevent diaper dermatitis 4.
- Nonmedical skincare practices, including the use of barrier emollients, can help prevent diaper dermatitis and alleviate the condition in many cases 5.
- A pharmaceutical approach to nappy rash involves simple precautions such as frequent changing of the nappy, cleaning the skin, and applying a water-repellent barrier cream, which can prevent some types of nappy rash from occurring 6.