Health Library

Diaper Rash

What Causes Diaper Rash?

The most common cause of diaper rash is irritation from skin contact with pee and poop. Other causes include:

• Bacterial or yeast infection of the skin
• Illnesses that result in increased frequency of pooping
• Illnesses that need treatment with antibiotics by mouth
• Eczema or psoriasis

What are the Symptoms of Diaper Rash?

A diaper rash may develop slowly or may happen very suddenly depending on the cause. You may notice areas of redness, scaling, pustules and / or sores. Older infants may scratch the affected area when the diaper is removed. Diaper rashes usually do not spread beyond the areas covered by the diaper.

How is Diaper Rash Treated?

• The best way to treat diaper rash is to prevent it. It is very important to keep the diaper area dry and clean. Frequent diaper changes, as well as applying a barrier ointment, especially ones containing zinc oxide, are helpful. Examples of ointments include A&D, Desitin and Triple Paste.
• It may be helpful to just use water and a soft cloth or cotton ball to clean the diaper area. Avoid using alcohol-based wipes, which can irritate the infant’s skin.
• Avoid putting diapers on too tightly. Diapers that are too tight do not allow the skin to ”breathe,” and may rub or irritate the infant’s skin.
• Your healthcare provider may suggest you use a medicated cream or ointment if an infection is suspected.
• Nystatin, miconazole, clotrimazole and ketoconazole are commonly used medicines to treat diaper rashes caused by yeast.
• Mupirocin and bacitracin are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial skin infections in the diaper area.
• Avoid using the following products on your baby’s bottom:
• Corn starch – it can make the diaper rash worse
• Talcum powder – babies may breathe the powder into their lungs where it can cause breathing problems
• If you use cloth diapers, do not use fabric softeners or dryer sheets since they may make the rash worse. When washing cloth diapers, rinse the diapers two or three times after washing to remove all traces of laundry detergent.
• Always wash your hands before and after changing your child’s diaper.

Call Your Child's Doctor If:

• The diaper rash gets worse or does not improve in two to three days.
• The rash spreads to the child’s stomach, back, arms or face.
• You notice boils, ulcers or bleeding in the diaper area.
• Your child is very uncomfortable or in pain.
• Your child has a fever (temperature of 100.4°F or higher).