A rash in the diaper area is caused by either a fungus, ammonia in the diaper, a bacterium, and occasionally by a reaction to the paper diaper. The most common rash is caused by a fungus. If severe, the skin may begin to break down, giving a raw appearance to the area. Ammonia rashes are generally flat bright red rashes in the diaper area. The redness begins to fade as the diaper is left off.
Bacterial rashes have papules, which are well localized.
A reaction to the diaper produces a red rash that covers the entire area of the diaper. Treatment General treatment consists of leaving the diaper area uncovered several times each day. This allows the area to dry out and the natural defenses of the body to work. Fungal infections are treated with Monistat 7 or GyneLotrimin applied 4 times each day. Either one can be purchased over the counter.