Diaper rash is a very common condition that can cause a
baby's skin to become sore, red, scaly, and tender. The rash
usually occurs because the skin is irritated by soiled diapers that
are left on for too long; friction from the diaper; or certain
brands of detergent, soaps, or baby wipes on sensitive skin. The
plastic that prevents diapers from leaking also prevents air
circulation, thus creating a warm, moist environment where rashes
and fungi can thrive.
Also, the introduction of new foods can change the content of a
baby's feces (poop), which can sometimes lead to a diaper rash.
And diarrhea can make a diaper rash worse.
Diaper rash that lasts for more than a few days, even with
changes to the diapering routine, might be caused by a yeast called
Candida albicans
(a type of fungus). This form of the rash is usually red, slightly
raised, and has small red dots extending beyond the main part of
the rash. It often starts in the creases of skin and can spread to
skin on the front and back of the baby. Antibiotics given to a baby
or a breastfeeding mom can lead to a yeast infection by killing off
the "good" bacteria that keep the
Candida
from growing.
Preventing Diaper Rash
The best way to prevent diaper rash is by keeping your
baby's skin as dry and clean as possible and changing diapers
often so that feces and urine won't irritate the skin.
To prevent diaper rash:
- change your baby's soiled or wet diapers as soon as
possible
- occasionally soak your baby's bottom between diaper
changes with warm water by running tap water over it or by
squirting with a water bottle
- allow your baby's skin to dry completely before you put
on another diaper
- pat the skin gently with a soft cloth when drying it -
rubbing can lead to irritation
- put the diaper on loosely to prevent chafing
If you use cloth diapers, rinse them several times after washing
to remove any traces of soap or detergent that can irritate your
baby's skin. Avoid using fabric softeners and dryer sheets -
even these can irritate the skin.
Some experts suggest allowing your baby to go without diapers
for several hours each day to give irritated skin a chance to dry
and "breathe." This is easiest if you place your baby in
a crib with waterproof sheets or on a large towel on the floor.
Some babies with sensitive skin can benefit from the application
of a barrier cream or ointment with each diaper change, but not all
babies need this.
Treating Diaper Rash
Diaper rash usually can be cleared up by checking your
baby's diaper often and changing it as soon as it's wet or
soiled. Creams and ointments that contain zinc oxide or petroleum
help to soothe skin and protect it from moisture, and should be
smeared on thickly (like icing) at each diaper change.
Diaper rash usually goes away within 2 to 3 days with home care,
although it can last longer. If it persists or if sores appear on
your baby's skin, talk to your doctor. Depending on what type
of rash your baby has, the doctor may choose to use an antifungal
cream, an antibiotic cream, or a mild steroid cream for a few days
until the rash disappears.
Reviewed by:
Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MD
Date reviewed: December 2008
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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