The appearance of diaper rash or diaper dermatitis in babies is a common occurrence. But sometimes a diaper rash tends to persist for long even after trying every possible cure. Such a diaper rash may develop due to yeast. Yeast diaper rash can emerge on the abdomen, thighs, genitals and genital creases.
An infection on the skin caused by the growth of fungus or yeast called ‘Candida albicans’ may lead to a diaper rash in babies. Such diaper rashes start with the softening and disintegration of the skin tissue around the anus. The infected area can then become inflamed. Some fluid formation may also be noticeable underneath the skin. Small red bumps called satellite pustules can be seen establishing at the fringes of the rash.
Diaper rash in a child is not restricted to only one cause; there are many possible reasons for why a baby may get a diaper rash:
As a new parent, you won’t be aware if your child has a yeast diaper infection. So, know these signs and symptoms of a yeast diaper rash and take action if your child has it:
In case the yeast diaper rash shows no signs of disappearing, it is wise to contact your doctor. Your doctor after examining the rash may suggest mild antifungal creams like Lotrimin (clotrimazole), Mycostatin (nystatin), Monistat-Derma (miconazole). He may also prescribe a 1% hydrocortisone cream if it is a severe rash. Applying the medication a couple of times in a day or as suggested by the doctor may help in curing the yeast diaper rash.
If you are wondering how to get rid of yeast diaper rash the following home remedies can be helpful:
Applying coconut oil on a yeast diaper rash can be a useful remedy. Coconut oil has antifungal properties which can help to keep the yeast growth in check.
Probiotics encourage the development of healthy gut bacteria which can aid in the destruction of yeast infection in our body. Consuming foods like yoghurt that contain active cultures can lower the risk of yeast infection. Spreading some live bacteria yoghurt on the rash can also be beneficial.
Apple cider vinegar also possesses antifungal properties. Using apple cider vinegar mixed with water in a ratio of 1:3 to wipe baby’s bottom while changing his diaper can prove helpful in curing Candida infection.
Grapefruit seed extract may be effective against yeast infection as it is fungicide and antimicrobial. Mix 10 drops of grape seed extract to 1 ounce of purified water and use the solution to clean the infected area.
Keeping your baby’s bottom free of a diaper for a few hours may stop yeast infection from increasing but will also help in drying out the rash.
If you are a breastfeeding mom, you can smear some of the breast milk on the rash. Breast milk contains antibodies that may prove beneficial in killing the yeast.
Tea tree oil is an antifungal which makes it a popular treatment for skin issues. You can make a diaper cream at home by adding a drop of tea tree oil to some coconut oil and using it after a diaper change.
In case your baby wears cloth diapers make sure you properly wash them in a solution of hot water and vinegar to efficiently eradicate the yeast.
Garlic can help in abolishing the yeast infection by strengthening the immune system. If your baby is consuming solids, you can even mix some fresh powdered garlic into his food.
If your baby is vulnerable to repeated diaper rashes, certain changes in the diet like reducing sugars may help.
Here is a list of things that you may like to keep in mind to prevent yeast infection diaper rash:
You may want to consult a doctor in the following cases:
The incidence of yeast diaper rash in babies is usually not a dangerous situation. Maintain good hygiene and take appropriate steps to prevent the yeast from increasing. The advent of yeast diaper rashes normally reduces in babies with age and may end when babies stop wearing diapers.