Contact diaper rash is a term used to describe regular diaper rash. Intertrigo is a rash that occurs in the skin folds and creases. It is caused by heat, mixed with urine and appears red, like a burn. It can be treated with white petroleum jelly diaper ointment.

Yeast rash can occur when the skin is damaged and yeast from the intestines invades the skin. It appears as a red, raised patch with sharp borders. It is mostly over the genitalia with other spots around the diaper area. Treatment, in addition to petroleum jelly, can include clotrimazole purchased over the counter and applied two or three times a day beneath the other creams. (Or you can get nystatin through a prescription.) Acidophilus is a natural bacterial powder that counteracts yeast, and it is another possibility.

Impetigo is a bad diaper rash occurring when bacteria invade the damaged skin, causing coin-sized blisters or raised red patches oozing a honey-colored crust. Treatment for blister diaper rash is through prescription antibiotic ointment and the general measures described previously.

Sebhorrhea is an inflammatory condition that can be severe in the diaper area. It looks like a large, red, sharply defined patch over the groin, genitalia and lower abdomen. Treatment is with 1% h ydrocortisone cream, available over the counter, two or three times daily. It shouldn't be used more than a week without the consent of your doctor.

Diaper Rash is not abnormal

Babies have very sensitive skin. Once you add the chemicals and moisture of urine and stools then cover the bottom with a diaper that causes friction, you get diaper rash. When the damaged skin is subject to the introduction of bacteria and yeast, the situation becomes even worse.

Diapers that rub against the skin, fit too tightly or are left on the baby too long can cause skin irritation. A baby's skin can also be irritated by the soap used to wash cloth diapers and by some brands of disposable diapers or baby wipes. Plastic pants that fit over the top of diapers raise the temperature and moisture making it easier for diaper rash to spread and for germs to grow.

Red Ring Could Be Allergies

If your baby has a red ring around the anus it could be caused by allergies. In that case stop using any foods you suspect may have caused it.

Even treatment for severe diaper rash is not so severe as to require an immediate night time call to your doctor. Generally the condition can wait to be evaluated the next day. Meanwhile, although you may not have a diaper rash remedy available right away, follow the procedures described above.

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