The majority of children experience a diaper rash during the first 3 years of life. Occlusion by the diaper causes the skin in the diaper area to become warmer, moister and have a higher pH, promoting the growth of microflora. The increase in temperature and water content also make the skin more permeable to potential irritants. Friction between the diaper and skin, and constant wiping and cleaning of the diaper area can weaken the epidermal barrier and facilitate the penetration of irritant substances. Frequent loose stools increase the likelihood of diaper rash.
Feces can contain potentially pathogenic organisms, which can cause skin infection.
In addition, urine releases ammonia, which causes the pH of the skin to rise, causing enzymes from the stools to become more active. Redness and irritation result. Skin should be dried thoroughly, especially between the folds, each time the diaper is changed The bottom should be wiped from front to back to keep fecal matter away from the genitals and prevent infection Once clean and dry, a barrier cream or ointment should be applied to seal out wetness and irritants. A diaper rash ointment containing zinc oxide should be applied at each diaper change until the diaper rash has cleared. Irritant diaper rashes resulting from yeast infections may require prescription medication to clear.