Newborns and infants

Diaper rash

Sooner or later, despite a parent's best efforts, just about every baby gets diaper rash. Knowing how to treat it when it happens will make your baby more comfortable and speed healing. As a general rule, a mild case goes away without much trouble, but if you see sores or blisters, give your pediatrician or health care provider a call.

What causes it?
Diaper rash is any rash that occurs on the skin covered by the diaper. Two things prompt diaper rash: rubbing and moisture. When the skin rubs against something (like a diaper!) or is wet for a long time, a baby's sensitive skin becomes weakened and reddened. Urine and/or feces add to the problem, leaving the skin vulnerable to infection or inflammation.

Types of rashes
If the baby is taking antibiotics, or if you are breastfeeding and taking antibiotics, the baby may be more susceptible to a diaper rash caused by yeast. Yeast from the stool can invade the skin, causing a bright red rash with small pimples. Over-the-counter antifungal cremes can help. Bacterial infections may also look like small pimples. If you can't tell the difference, call your doctor or nurse.

Diarrhea only adds to the problem. Diarrhea can cause the area around the anus to become red and sore, causing the baby to fuss even more when you clean the area.

Your baby's age also makes a difference. Babies are more likely to have diaper rash at about eight to 10 months, which may coincide when they start eating more solid foods.

Cloth vs. disposable diapers
Babies who wear disposable diapers may have less diaper rash than those who wear cloth because their skin is in contact with less moisture. If you are washing your own diapers, be sure to use hot water and double rinse the diapers. Avoid fabric softeners that could irritate baby's skin. Regardless of the type of diaper worn, the key is to change diapers often.

Preventing and treating diaper rash
The best way to treat diaper rash is to prevent it by changing your baby's diapers often—right after he wets or has a bowel movement. Follow these steps for a drier, happier baby.

• Wash the baby's bottom with warm water each time. Packaged wipes may contain alcohol that can sometimes irritate or dry your baby's skin. If the skin is red, don't rub. Gently dab the area with a soft wet cloth. (Some even use a squirt bottle filled with warm water). Sometimes, a quick bath in lukewarm (not hot) water can be soothing if the area is very red.
• Let your baby's bottom air dry. If the skin is really red, try leaving the diaper off during a nap. Put the baby on her stomach and place a diaper under her.
• Put a protective layer of zinc oxide diaper creme first, covered with petroleum jelly, on the skin.
• If you use cloth diapers, don't use plastic pants until the rash has healed.
• DON'T use talcum powder on your baby. Talc has been linked to respiratory problems. If you want to use powder, use only cornstarch.

When to call the doctor
If there are blisters or sores on your baby's bottom, if the rash lasts for several days, or if there are other symptoms present, call your pediatrician or health care provider.

• YNHH Health Library: Diapers and Diaper Rash

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Reviewed: Richard Antaya, MD, April 1999
Last revised: May 30, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.