Diaper Rash: Causes, Prevention and How It Differs From Yeast Rash

Opening a diaper to find a red, irritated bottom can break your heart. Diaper rash is very common in babies and usually clears up at home with simple steps. With a little knowledge, you can both prevent it and spot a serious one in time.

What is diaper rash and why does it happen? According to the NHS, diaper rash causes red or irritated patches in the diaper area, and sometimes dry, scaly skin. Your baby's bottom may be itchy or sore. The newborn care guide of Turkey's Ministry of Health explains the cause like this: moisture makes the skin more permeable and sensitive. Pee raises the skin's pH, and enzymes in poop become active in this environment and irritate the skin. According to the guide, diaper rash is less common in breastfed babies.

Other triggers: According to the NHS and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), these can also cause diaper rash:

• Not changing diapers often enough, so the skin stays in contact with pee and poop for a long time
• The diaper rubbing
• Diarrhea
• A reaction to scented or alcohol-based wipes, soap, laundry detergent or bubble bath
• Some medicines, such as yeast overgrowth after antibiotics

The golden rule of prevention: clean, dry skin.

• Change wet or dirty diapers right away, without waiting.
• Clean the diaper area with water or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes. Pat dry gently instead of rubbing.
• Whenever you can, leave your baby diaper-free for a while to let the skin air out.
• Use highly absorbent diapers and do not fasten them too tightly.

The Turkish Ministry of Health guide notes that ready-made wet wipes can increase irritation, while alcohol-free wipes can be used on healthy skin when water is not available.

Barrier cream: zinc oxide and petroleum jelly. The AAP recommends barrier creams containing zinc oxide and petroleum jelly (petrolatum). The Turkish Ministry of Health also says zinc oxide products can be applied to reduce contact with pee and poop. These creams form a protective layer between the skin and the mess. You do not need to wipe off all the cream at every diaper change. Gently clean the soiled part, pat dry and apply again.

Stay away from these. The NHS recommends avoiding soap, baby lotion, bubble bath, talcum powder and antiseptic creams when your baby has diaper rash. The Turkish Ministry of Health also notes that powder can create a good environment for bacteria and fungi and can be harmful to the airways. The AAP warns that over-the-counter antibiotic ointments can sometimes make skin irritation worse. So do not use antibiotic or steroid creams unless your doctor recommends them.

How can you tell a yeast rash (candida)? Sometimes a yeast infection develops on top of diaper rash. According to the AAP, a yeast rash looks like bright, shiny red or pink patches with sharp edges, and there may be small pink bumps or pimples on it. Unlike regular diaper rash, it is usually more noticeable in the skin folds of the groin and often appears after antibiotic use. With irritation rash, the groin folds usually look normal because they are more protected from pee and poop. If you suspect a yeast rash, the AAP recommends washing your hands well before and after diaper changes. In this case, an antifungal cream recommended by your doctor may be needed.

If the rash will not go away: The AAP recommends calling your pediatrician if a diaper rash does not improve within two or three days of treatment. The NHS also says to see your family doctor if the rash does not go away, gets worse or spreads to other areas. If needed, the doctor may recommend a steroid, antifungal or antibiotic cream.

When to see a doctor, when to call your local emergency number? Contact your pediatrician or family doctor if:

• The rash does not improve, gets worse or spreads despite 2-3 days of care
• There are pimples, fluid-filled blisters, pus or crusty sores
• You suspect a yeast rash
• Your baby has a fever or seems very fussy and in pain

According to the AAP, if a baby 3 months old or younger has a rectal temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher, call the doctor right away. If your baby is having trouble breathing or cannot be woken, call your local emergency number.

Dear mom, diaper rash is not a sign that you are not taking good care of your baby; it happens to almost every baby. Frequent diaper changes, a little air and a good barrier cream are usually enough. Your baby's relieved little face will be the sweetest thank-you.