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Main > Newborn > Common Newborn Problems > Diaper Rashes

Diaper Rashes

Diaper rashes are usually caused by irritation of the skin by urine and/or stool. Irritant diaper rashes usually spare the creases or skin folds of the diaper area and should improve in 2-3 days with an OTC diaper rash cream. If it is not clearing up or is bright red and surrounded by red dots, your baby may have a secondary yeast infection (Candida) and will need an antifungal cream in addition to the regular diaper creams for treatment to help clear it up.

Seborrheic dermatitis can also involve the diaper area, and usually causes redness in the creases of the skin with sparing of other skin surfaces in the diaper area. Children with diaper rashes caused by seborrheic dermatitis will usually have involvement of other areas of the body, such as the scalp (cradle cap), behind the ears, or in other skin folds (axilla).

Diaper rashes can be prevented by minimizing wetness in the diaper area. You can do this by frequent diaper changes, using superabsorbent diapers, applying a barrier ointment after each diaper change, increasing air exposure by keeping the diaper off as much as possible. Also avoid excessively cleaning or scrubbing the skin in the diaper area. Instead, use a mild soap or skin cleanser only after bowel movements and rinse with just warm water at other times.

Severe diaper rashes may need to be treated with a mild 1/2% hydrocortizone cream twice a day for two or three days in addition to the above recommendations. Avoid using stronger steroid creams in the diaper area.

Warning: Don't use Lotrisone, a combination of clotrimazole (an antifungal) and a very strong steroid to treat your infant's diaper rash. The steroid is too strong and can lead to serious side effects, including skin atrophy and growth retardation.




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Important disclaimer: The information on keepkidshealthy.com is for educational purposes only and should not be considered to be medical advice. It is not meant to replace the advice of the physician who cares for your child. All medical advice and information should be considered to be incomplete without a physical exam, which is not possible without a visit to your doctor.