Diaper Rash

Diaper rash (diaper dermatitis) is a skin irritation caused by prolonged skin wetness, friction with the diaper material, and contact with chemicals in the urine and stool. The skin may look red, raw, scalded, or burned. While a diaper rash is uncomfortable, normally it is not serious.

Diaper rash is the most common skin problem seen in babies and young children, but it can occur at any age if diapers or incontinence briefs are worn. The highest incidence of diaper rash is seen in babies between the ages of 9 and 12 months. It frequently occurs in babies who sleep for many hours without waking.

An adult may develop a rash in the genital area if he or she is unable to routinely wash the genital area, such as on a long backpacking trip, or does not have complete bowel or bladder control (incontinence).

The skin may blister or peel in severe cases of diaper rash, leaving raw areas that may bleed or ooze fluid. A diaper rash that becomes raw, oozes fluid, or bleeds is harder to treat. Fungal or bacterial infections may be the cause of a severe diaper rash.

The most common causes of diaper rash include:

• Not changing a wet or dirty diaper often enough. The skin becomes irritated from contact with urine and stool, particularly when diarrhea is present.
• Rubbing or irritation of the skin by a diaper or incontinence brief. The irritated area may include the thighs, genitals, buttocks, or belly area.
• A skin reaction to perfumes in the disposable diapers or incontinence briefs, to chemicals in skin-cleaning "diaper wipes," or to the detergents or fabric softeners used to clean cloth diapers.

A diaper rash may also be a sign of abuse or neglect.

• Neglect occurs when a caregiver does not treat a diaper rash at the time treatment is needed.
• Abuse occurs when a caregiver purposely does not treat a diaper rash because of anger directed at the child or vulnerable adult.

Sometimes a diaper rash may occur with other general skin conditions, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, or seborrhea. The rash may be red and oozing. A crust may form, and there will often be similar patches of rash on other parts of the body.

Most diaper rashes last about 24 hours and can be treated at home. Usually the rash clears up when the diapers are changed more often, cleansing routines are changed, or nonprescription ointments are applied to the skin. Treatment for diaper rash is the same for both children and adults.

Review the Check Your Symptoms section of this topic to determine if and when to see a health professional.