Practically every baby gets diaper rash in spite of your best efforts. Moisture and rubbing promote diaper rash, so when your baby's sensitive skin is wet for a long time, it becomes weakened and reddened.

Of course, the best way to treat diaper rash is to prevent it from happening in the first place. To help your baby stay drier and happier, follow these steps:

• Change your baby's diaper right after he wets or has a bowel movement.
  
  
• Wash his bottom with warm water- avoid packaged wipes that may contain alcohol and can damage sensitive skin.
  
  
• If the skin is red, avoid rubbing by gently dabbing the area with a soft wet cloth then patting it dry.
  
  
• Let baby's bottom air dry.
  
  
• Apply a protective layer of zinc oxide diaper cream on the skin, and cover with petroleum jelly.
  
  
• Avoid using talcum powder, which has been linked to respiratory problems. Cornstarch is a good substitute.