Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is a common condition that can make a baby's skin sore, red, scaly, and tender. Most cases will clear up with simple changes in diapering.

Usually, diaper rash is the result of an irritation, infection, or allergy.

Also, starting new foods can change the content and frequency of a baby's poop, which can sometimes lead to a diaper rash. And diarrhea can make an existing case of 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

yeastcalled Candida albicans. This rash is usually red, slightly raised, and has small red dots spreading beyond the main part of the rash. It often starts in the deep 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 cause this, as they kill the "good" bacteria that keep Candida from growing.

Most diaper rashes are caused by irritation of the skin from contact with pee, poop, and sweat. Sometimes babies get a diaper rash from an allergy to a type of diaper or fragrances in laundry detergent, fabric softener, soap, or wipes.

Signs of diaper rash caused by irritation or allergy include:

Rashes also can be caused by a skin infection due to yeast or bacteria. If the rash is due to an infection, signs may include:

To help clear up diaper rash, check your baby's diaper often and change it as soon as it's wet or soiled. Gently clean the diaper area with soap and water and pat dry. Creams and ointments containing zinc oxide or petroleum help to soothe skin and protect it from moisture. They should be smeared on thickly (like cake icing) at each diaper change.

Some experts suggest letting your baby 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.

Diaper rash usually goes away within 2 to 3 days with home care, but can last longer.

Keep your baby's skin as dry and clean as possible and change diapers often so that poop and pee don't irritate the skin.

Try these tips to prevent diaper rash:

Applying diaper cream or ointment with each diaper change can help some babies with sensitive skin, but not all babies need this.

For cloth diapers, only use detergents in the amount recommended, and run an extra rinse cycle after washing to remove traces of soap or detergent that can irritate your baby's skin. Avoid using fabric softeners and dryer sheets — even these can irritate skin.

Some babies get a rash after switching to a new type of diaper. While experts don't recommend any particular brand, if your child is sensitive, look for diapers free of dyes or fragrances, and try a wet washcloth instead of baby wipes.

If the rash doesn't go away, gets worse, or if sores appear on your baby's skin, talk to your doctor. Also get medical care if your baby has a fever, pus is draining from the rash, or if your child is fussier than usual.

Depending on what type of rash your baby has, the doctor may choose to use an antifungal cream or an antibiotic cream, or may recommend other changes to your diapering routine. Sometimes, if those changes don't help a rash caused by an allergic reaction, the doctor may prescribe a mild steroid cream for a few days until the rash goes away.