Treating Stubborn Diaper Rash
Persistent Diaper Rash: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
When your toddler's diaper rash just won't clear up, it's frustrating and concerning. Most stubborn rashes are either fungal infections (like yeast) or severe irritation that needs a different approach. The good news? With the right care, even persistent rashes usually clear up within a week.
What's going on?
Diaper rashes that stick around for more than a few days are usually more than simple irritation. Your toddler's skin might be dealing with a yeast infection, which loves warm, moist environments like diapers. These fungal infections look different from regular rash and need specific treatment.
Sometimes what seems like a stubborn rash is actually severe irritation from frequent loose stools, new foods, or even a reaction to wipes or detergents. Toddlers who are potty training might also get more rashes from sitting in wet underwear longer than they would in diapers.
The key is figuring out what type of rash you're dealing with so you can treat it properly.
What you might notice
- Bright red, raised bumps or patches
- Small red spots spreading beyond the main rash area
- Rash in skin folds (groin, thigh creases)
- Shiny or raw-looking skin
- Your child seems more uncomfortable than usual during changes
- The rash gets worse instead of better with regular diaper cream
What helps at home
Start with extra gentle care. Change diapers more frequently, even if they're just slightly wet. Let your toddler go diaper-free for 10 to 15 minutes after each change to air dry completely.
For cleaning, use plain warm water and soft cloths instead of wipes, which can sting broken skin. Pat dry instead of wiping, and make sure everything is completely dry before putting on the new diaper.
If you suspect yeast (look for those small red spots spreading outward), try an over-the-counter antifungal cream like clotrimazole. Apply it to clean, dry skin and let it absorb before adding your regular barrier cream on top.
Switch to a thicker barrier cream with zinc oxide, and apply it generously. Think frosting on a cake thick. This creates a better seal against moisture.
When to worry
Head to the ER if your toddler has fever along with the rash, if there are streaks of red extending from the rash area, or if your child seems unusually unwell or lethargic.
Call your doctor or text Arlo if the rash spreads beyond the diaper area, develops pus-filled bumps, or doesn't improve after three days of antifungal treatment. Also reach out if your toddler seems to be in significant pain or if you notice any bleeding or open sores.
The takeaway
Persistent rashes are common and treatable. Most clear up once you find the right approach for your child's specific situation.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Diaper Rash (Caring for Kids)](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/diaper_rash)
- [Diaper rash (AboutKidsHealth)](https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=1981&language=English)
- [Skin conditions in babies (Ontario.ca)](https://www.ontario.ca/page/skin-conditions-babies)