Most diaper rash is caused by friction that develops when sensitive baby skin is rubbed by wet diapers. Diaper rash is often related to wet or infrequently changed diapers, skin sensitivity, and chafing.
Diaper rash can be traced to a number of sources, including:
- Rubbing caused friction.
Tightfitting diapers or clothing that rubs against the skin can lead to a rash.
- Irritation from stool and urine.
Frequent bowel movement or diarrhea will increase the chance of baby getting diaper rash because feces are more irritating than urine. Prolonged exposure to urine or stool can irritate a baby’s sensitive skin.
- Irritation from a new product.
Your baby’s skin may react to baby wipes, a new brand of disposable diapers, or a detergent, bleach or fabric softener used to launder cloth diapers. Other factors that can contribute to the problem include chemical ingredients found in some baby lotions, powders and oils.
- Bacterial or yeast (fungal) infection. Area covered by a diaper — buttocks, thighs and genitals — is especially more vulnerable because it’s warm and moist, making a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
- Introduction of new foods. Changing in diet will increase the likelihood of diaper rash. As babies start to eat solid foods, the content of their stool changes. If your baby is breast-fed, he or she may develop diaper rash in response to something the mother has eaten.
- Sensitive skin. Babies with skin condition such as eczema may have higher chance to develop diaper rash.
- Use of antibiotics. Antibiotics kill both good and bad bacteria. When a baby takes antibiotics, good bacteria that inhibit yeast growth may be depleted, resulting in diaper rash due to yeast infection. Antibiotic use also increases the risk of diarrhea.
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