Irritant Diaper Rash
The most common type of diaper rash is the irritant rash. This is when the area affected is within the diaper. For instance, skin dermatitis on the thigh area is not considered an irritant type rash. Products containing zinc oxide should be able to address this problem because it will provide a barrier to allow healing. Causes of this type rash can include stool enzymes, soaps and detergents, and baby wipes.
Yeast Diaper Rash
A yeast infection can also be the cause a diaper rash. Symptoms of this type include dry, reddish patches with defined edges, somewhat scaly or scab-like. Areas most susceptible to this type rash include the skin folds of the upper thigh. To treat a yeast infection rash, use a product with anti-fungal medication. Yeast thrives in warm, moist skin and should also be suspect when a diaper rash does not improve in a couple days from using an ointment for such. If the baby is, or has recently been, treated with antibiotics, this will increase the chances of a yeast infection as antibiotics reduce the body’s natural ability to fight infection by compromising the good bacteria.
Friction Diaper Rash
Friction is also a type of diaper rash, although it originated from moisture. Skin wetness increases friction. Areas usually affected by friction are the waistband and elastic legs of the diaper, especially when they are too tight. When the skin layer is compromised, whether by friction or moisture, bacteria can enter the inflamed area causing an infection. This causes the treatment of common diaper rash to be more resistant.
Other less common forms of diaper rash include seborrhea and psoriasis.
