Its the most common skin condition that affects infants, occurring in about half of all babies.

This article discusses the symptoms and causes of diaper rash and various treatment options.

Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2022.

A dad changing a baby’s diaper

Nikola Stojadinovic / Getty Images

Causes

Diaper rash is an inflammatory reaction of the skin.

Othercauses of diaper rashinclude:

Why Does Stool and Urine Cause Diaper Rash?

Newborns and infants whose diapers are changed more frequently are less likely to experience diaper rash.

Image of diaper rash

Reproduced with permission from © DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2022.

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers typically diagnose diaper rash by looking at the area.

Products that contain zinc oxide or petroleum jelly can keep moisture at bay and protect the skin.

Which jot down of Diaper Is Best?

Some people notice that more absorbent diapers protect better against diaper rash.

Prognosis: How Serious Is Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash usually responds well to treatment.

In most cases, a diaper rash can heal within two to three days.

Coping

Babies with diaper rash may be fussy or irritable.

Some healthcare providers may recommend pain medicines for older infants to help ease the discomfort.

Summary

Diaper rash is a common skin condition that affects babies and toddlers.

Most often, it happens because the skin in the diaper area comes in contact with feces or urine.

Several creams and ointments are available to soothe the skin and clear up the rash.

Diaper rash usually responds well to treatment.

American Academy of Pediatrics.Common diaper rashes and treatments.

UpToDate.Patient education: Diaper rash in infants and children.

Johns Hopkins Medicine.Diaper dermatitis.

American Academy of Family Physicians.Diaper rash.

American Academy of Dermatology.How to treat diaper rash.

American Academy of Pediatrics.Diapers: Disposable or cloth?.