Baby diaper rash happens all the time, especially in babies and toddlers who wear diapers most of the day. Most rashes are mild and often improve with simple care at home.
Knowing the common diaper rash causes and the signs that a rash needs a closer look can help you feel more confident in caring for your little one. Below, we’ll talk about what to watch for and what you can do about it when this issue pops up.
Common Causes of Diaper Rash
Diaper rash can have several causes, including:
- Prolonged contact with wet or soiled diapers
- Friction from diapers rubbing against the skin
- Sensitive skin
- Changes in stool frequency
- Diarrhea
- Reactions to wipes, soaps, or other products
- Yeast infections
- Bacterial infections in some cases
Diaper rash is also more common when babies start solid foods, take antibiotics, or are dealing with diarrhea from an illness.
What Does a Typical Diaper Rash Look Like?
A typical diaper rash caused by irritation may include:
- Redness
- Mild swelling
- Irritated skin
- Discomfort during diaper changes
- Skin that seems sensitive to touch
This kind of rash usually shows up on the skin that touches the diaper most, such as the buttocks, thighs, and genital area.
Diaper Rash vs. Yeast Infection
Some diaper rashes are caused by yeast rather than simple irritation. Yeast naturally lives on the skin, but it can grow more easily in a warm, moist diaper area. A yeast diaper rash can have signs like:
- A bright red rash
- Rash in the skin folds
- Small red spots around the edges of the main rash
- A rash that lasts despite routine diaper care
Because yeast and other infections may need different care than a simple irritation rash, a provider can evaluate whether an infection may be present.
How to Care for Mild Diaper Rash at Home
For mild irritation, diaper rash treatment at home usually focuses on keeping the skin clean, dry, and protected.
To help, follow these tips:
- Change diapers frequently, including soon after bowel movements
- Gently clean and dry the diaper area
- Avoid rubbing irritated skin
- Use fragrance-free products when possible
- Allow supervised diaper-free time
- Consider an appropriate barrier ointment, such as one with zinc oxide or petroleum jelly
Patting the skin dry and letting it air out for a few minutes before putting on a fresh diaper can help, too.
When Diaper Rash May Need Medical Attention
Knowing when to worry about diaper rash can help you decide whether home care is enough. Talk with a provider if your baby has:
- A rash that is worsening
- A rash that isn’t improving with basic care
- Blisters or open sores
- Bleeding
- Pus or drainage
- Significant swelling
- Fever with a concerning rash
- Severe discomfort
A severe diaper rash or one that keeps coming back may have a cause that needs a different approach.
When to Visit KidsStreet
Persistent, painful, or unusual diaper rashes are a good fit for urgent care for kids. Through our pediatric urgent care services, a medical provider can evaluate whether an infection may be present and recommend treatment when appropriate.
Every baby is different, and you know what’s normal for yours. If something feels different, your concern is a good reason to have a provider take a look.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 if your child has:
- Rapidly spreading skin changes with severe illness
- Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Other symptoms that feel life-threatening
If you’re ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always okay to choose the emergency room.
What to Expect at KidsStreet
When you visit, a friendly medical provider will check out the rash and review your baby’s symptoms, including how long the rash has been there and what you’ve tried at home.
The provider will assess possible causes, such as irritation or infection, recommend next steps based on what they find, and help you understand what to do next.
Visit KidsStreet for Diaper Rash Concerns
Diaper rash is a normal part of babyhood for many families, but you don’t have to guess when a rash isn’t improving. If your baby’s skin has you concerned, our team has you covered.
KidsStreet is open late 7 days a week! Register online to save your spot in line! Online registration is not an appointment, but it can help reduce in-clinic wait times by adding you to the queue before you arrive.