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What is a diaper rash? — A diaper rash is a skin rash that happens anywhere in the area that is covered by a diaper. Diaper rashes are very common. They can occur in any baby or child who wears a diaper.
Most diaper rashes can be treated at home and go away after a few days.
What causes diaper rash? — Diaper rash can be caused by:
●The urine or bowel movement in the diaper – These can irritate the skin. Diaper rashes are especially common after a baby has diarrhea or has taken antibiotic medicines.
●Perfumes or dyes in a diaper that a baby's skin is allergic to
●Skin conditions or infections that happen in the diaper area but are not caused by wearing a diaper
What are the symptoms of a diaper rash? — Symptoms depend on the cause of the rash. They can include:
●Red, painful, or itchy skin (picture 1 and picture 2)
●Raised, peeling, or scaly areas
●Yellow blisters filled with fluid
If a baby's diaper rash is caused by a skin condition or infection, the rash can be on other body parts, too.
Should I see a doctor or nurse? — Most people can treat the rash at home and do not need to see a doctor or nurse. But you should see a doctor or nurse if:
●The rash gets worse or doesn't get better after a few days of treatment
●Your baby has diarrhea or a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or more
How should I treat the diaper rash? — To treat your baby's diaper rash, you should:
●Take the diaper off to air out the skin as much as possible
●Check your baby's diaper every 2 or 3 hours, and change it when it is wet
●Change your baby's diaper right after each bowel movement
●Gently clean the area covered by the diaper – Use warm water and a soft cloth. If you use soap, use one that is mild and unscented. If the skin is peeling or sore, you can use a plastic squeeze bottle filled with warm water. Pat the area dry with a soft towel afterward.
●Put a skin ointment or paste on the area each time you change the diaper – Use a product that has zinc oxide or petrolatum in it.
●Use disposable diapers instead of cloth diapers (when your baby has a diaper rash)
If the rash is severe or infected, your doctor might prescribe a medicine for you to use on the area.
How can diaper rashes be prevented? — To help prevent your baby from getting a diaper rash, you can:
●Change your baby's diaper often
●Clean the diaper area gently – Use warm water and a soft cloth. If you use soap, use one that is mild and unscented. Pat the area dry with a soft towel afterward.
●Use unscented baby wipes without alcohol (if you use baby wipes)
●Use a diaper ointment or paste on the area each time you change the diaper
Patient education: Contact dermatitis (The Basics)
Patient education: Diarrhea in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Diaper rash in infants and children (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Contact dermatitis (including latex dermatitis) (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Seborrheic dermatitis (including dandruff and cradle cap) (Beyond the Basics)