Try an oatmeal bath to soothe irritated skin

Add colloidal oatmeal to your baby's bath to soothe inflamed, rashy skin. Dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of finely ground colloidal oatmeal in lukewarm bathwater, let the baby soak for 10-15 minutes, then pat the skin dry gently and apply barrier cream.

Why It Works

Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oats that disperse in water) has well-documented anti-inflammatory and skin-protective properties. It contains avenanthramides, which reduce itching and inflammation, and beta-glucans, which form a protective film on the skin. The FDA recognizes colloidal oatmeal as a safe and effective skin protectant. Products like Aveeno Baby Soothing Bath Treatment are widely available.

Tips

• You can make your own colloidal oatmeal by grinding plain, unflavored oats in a blender or food processor until they form a fine powder that dissolves in water
• Keep bathwater lukewarm, not hot -- hot water further strips the skin's natural oils
• Limit baths to 10-15 minutes; prolonged soaking can dry out the skin
• Pat skin dry immediately after the bath and apply zinc oxide cream while the skin is still slightly damp
• Oatmeal baths can be given daily during active rash episodes