Diaper rash is red, sore skin in the diaper area. Most babies get it at some point, especially between 9 and 12 months. It usually clears in 2 to 3 days with simple care at home.
Common causes
- Wet or dirty diapers left on too long
- Rubbing and chafing
- Diarrhea, which irritates skin quickly
- Starting new foods, which changes stool
- Antibiotics (for baby, or for a breastfeeding mother), which can lead to a yeast rash
- Sensitivity to wipes, soaps or detergents
How to treat it
- Change diapers often, as soon as they’re wet or dirty, including once at night if the rash is bad.
- Clean gently with warm water and a soft cloth, or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes. Pat dry; don’t rub.
- Give diaper-free time: let your baby lie on a towel without a diaper for a few minutes several times a day.
- Use a barrier cream at every change. Zinc oxide or petroleum jelly creams protect the skin. Herbal options such as Himalaya Diaper Rash Cream can soothe mild rashes. Apply a thick layer and don’t wipe it all off at the next change; just clean the soiled part.
- Loosen the diaper or go up a size so air can reach the skin.
Avoid talcum powder (it can be breathed in), baby wipes with fragrance or alcohol, and steroid creams unless a doctor recommends them.
Is it a yeast rash?
A rash that lasts more than 3 days despite good care may be caused by yeast (candida). Signs include bright red skin with raised edges, small red spots spreading beyond the main rash, and redness in the skin folds. Your pediatrician may suggest an antifungal cream.
Prevention
- Change diapers promptly and use a barrier cream at changes if your baby gets rashes often
- Choose fragrance-free wipes and mild, baby-safe soap such as Himalaya Extra Moisturizing Baby Soap
- Wash cloth diapers in fragrance-free detergent and rinse well
When to call your pediatrician
- The rash doesn’t improve after 2 to 3 days of home care
- There are blisters, open sores, pus-filled bumps or crusting
- Your baby has a fever or seems unwell
- The rash spreads beyond the diaper area
- Your baby is under 6 weeks old
Frequently asked questions
How long does diaper rash last?
Most mild rashes get better within 2 to 3 days of good care.
Should I use cream at every diaper change?
While there’s a rash, yes. A thick barrier layer at each change protects the skin while it heals.
Can teething cause diaper rash?
Teething itself doesn’t, but babies who are teething sometimes have looser stools, which can irritate the skin.
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This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
