Nappy rash: a pharmaceutical approach.

Before dealing with nappy rash, first examine the cause. Simple precautions such as frequent changing of the nappy, cleaning the skin and applying a water-repellent barrier cream can prevent some types of nappy rash from occurring. Creams and ointments for nappy rash contain a variety of ingredients such as emollients, water-repellents, antiseptics, astringents and anti-inflammatory agents. Nappy rash caused by Candida (thrush) needs to be treated with specific antifungals, eg clotrimazole, nystatin, miconazole. Rashes which do not settle or which recur frequently should be referred to a doctor for further investigation and treatment.