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Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is something nearly every parent encounters at some point. This guide will walk you through what causes diaper rash, how to spot it, treat it, and prevent it from affecting your baby’s skin.

At Pediatric Associates of Austin, we understand how upsetting diaper rash can be for both babies and parents. If you need guidance or support, don’t hesitate to contact our caring providers in Austin, Texas, and learn more about our services for newborns and infants.

(512) 458-5323

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– Ethan M.

Symptoms & Conditions We Treat

What is Diaper Rash and What Causes It?

Diaper rash (also known as diaper dermatitis) refers to inflamed skin in the diaper area due to irritation, infection, or allergies. This common diaper rash may appear suddenly and vary in severity, from mild redness to patches of inflamed skin or even raised bumps.

Irritant diaper rash is most common, caused by prolonged exposure to wet or soiled diapers. When urine and stools sit against the baby’s delicate skin, they can break down protective barriers and worsen skin irritation. Frequent diaper changes and using gentle diaper wipes can help reduce this risk.

Other causes include:

  • Bacterial diaper rash, often caused by bacterial infection in skin folds when wet cloth or disposable diapers are left in place too long
  • Yeast infection or candida diaper rash, triggered by the Candida fungus flourishing in warm, damp environments
  • Allergic or allergic reactions to fragrances, chlorine, and latex in disposable diapers
  • Other skin conditions: seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap around the diaper region) or eczema.
 

Babies starting to eat solid foods can experience changes in stool content, which may increase the risk of diaper dermatitis. Using cloth diapers without thorough rinsing or washing could also worsen certain rashes.

A mother changing her baby’s diaper in Texas.

What Does Diaper Rash Look Like?

Recognizing diaper rash early helps prevent severe cases. Look for:

  • Bright red rash or bright red skin across the diaper area
  • Patches that are scaly, raised, or blistered
  • Skin covered with red spots in the folds and creases
  • Rash spreads from the genitals to the thighs or buttocks
  • In a yeast diaper rash, the skin can crack and have distinct red bumps
  • Bacterial diaper rash may include yellowish pimples or pustules
 

Diaper dermatitis may be itchy and uncomfortable. Your baby might fuss during diaper changes or leg squats when the area hurts.

How is Diaper Rash Diagnosed?

In most cases, you can identify diaper rash at home based on its appearance. However, you should reach out to a provider when you notice:

  • A bright red, persistent rash that doesn’t improve in a couple of days
  • Blisters, open sores, or signs of infection
  • Significant swelling or your baby appears in pain
 

Providers perform a visual exam of the baby’s diaper area. In rare, severe cases, they may take a skin swab or sample to differentiate between bacterial diaper rash, candida diaper rash, or another condition. This helps determine treatment options like prescription antimicrobial ointments or antifungal creams.

How Do You Treat/Relieve Diaper Rash?

Here are the most effective treatment strategies to soothe irritated infant skin and promote healing:

  1. Frequent diaper change: Remove wet or soiled diaper promptly to keep skin dry. A squirt bottle of warm water helps when gently wiping.
  2. Air time: Let your baby’s diaper area breathe without a diaper for short periods.
  3. Barrier creams: Apply a thick layer of diaper rash cream or one containing zinc oxide at every change to protect the skin.
  4. Gentle cleansing: Use a soft cloth or unscented diaper wipes, avoiding alcohol or fragrances.
  5. Cloth diaper care: Thoroughly rinse cloth diapers to remove detergent residue and ensure they’re clean.
  6. Change diaper type if needed: Try breathable disposable diapers or those labeled for sensitive skin.
  7. Antifungal or antibacterial treatment: For yeast diaper rash or bacterial diaper rash, providers may recommend over-the-counter or prescription antifungal cream (e.g., clotrimazole) or antibiotic ointment in severe cases. Always check with your provider first.
 

If skin remains inflamed or painful after a few days of proper care, a provider can offer further treatment options.

How Do You Prevent Diaper Rash?

Prevention is key when it comes to diaper dermatitis. Consider these steps:

  • Change diapers frequently, ideally every 2–3 hours or immediately after a soiled diaper
  • Choose breathable disposable diapers or well-laundered cloth diapers
  • Maintain a strict diaper change routine day and night
  • Give babies air time as often as possible
  • Apply a small amount of zinc oxide or petroleum-based ointment as barrier protection
  • After starting solid foods, be extra vigilant of stool changes and increase check frequency
  • Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and diaper wipes
  • Avoid using talcum powder or products with alcohol that dry out the skin
 

These practices support healthy infant skin and help prevent common diaper rashes, including irritant diaper and yeast-related irritation.

When to Call Your Provider

Reach out to your provider when you notice any of the following:

  • Severe rashes that are bright red, weeping, blistering, or painful
  • Suspected bacterial diaper rash or candida diaper rash that doesn’t respond to home care
  • Worsening skin irritation
  • Rash accompanied by fever or changes in your baby’s behavior
  • Rash that has lasted longer than a week or repeatedly recurs
 

Early evaluation can help prevent severe cases from developing and ensure your baby gets proper treatment fast.

Let Us Take Care of Your Baby’s Comfort

If your baby is struggling with diaper rash, whether it’s a simple irritant diaper or a more challenging bacterial diaper rash, our team at Pediatric Associates of Austin is here for you. We offer comprehensive newborn care, diagnosis, and diaper rash treatment options to support healthy, happy babies.

Contact us today at our office in Austin, TX, to schedule an appointment and get personalized guidance. Your baby’s skin health is our priority.

Medically reviewed by Emily Woodard, MSN, APRN, CPNP

 

  1. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/diaper-rash.html