What should you know about nappy rash sore?

The skin may look red, shiny, inflamed, or chapped, and the baby may be unsettled during a nappy change. A rash that involves the skin folds, has small separate spots around its edge, or does not start settling with gentle care can have another cause, such as a yeast infection.

Nappy rash affects skin exposed to warmth, dampness, rubbing, and irritants. Frequent loose stools, antibiotics, or a nappy that stays wet for a long time can make the skin more vulnerable. Broken skin can sting when it comes into contact with urine or stool.

Simple irritation often affects the areas that touch the nappy while sparing deeper folds. Yeast-related rash commonly appears in the folds and may have small red spots beyond the main patch. Other conditions can look similar, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Change wet or soiled nappies promptly. Clean with lukewarm water and a soft cloth or a fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipe, then pat rather than rub. Give the area short periods of air exposure when practical, and fasten the nappy comfortably so it does not press against sore skin.

A thin protective barrier can reduce contact with moisture; follow the product directions and avoid putting non-prescribed steroid, antiseptic, or fragranced products on a baby’s skin. An emollient may support a dry, irritated skin barrier; see Emollient Therapy for more information. If a clinician identifies yeast, they may recommend Topical Antifungal Treatment.

Arrange medical advice if the rash is spreading, very painful, blistered, bleeding, weeping, crusted, or accompanied by pus. Contact a clinician if your baby has a fever, seems unusually sleepy, feeds poorly, has fewer wet nappies, or is difficult to settle.

Seek prompt assessment when the skin is raw or broken, the rash keeps returning, or gentle care is not helping. A pharmacist or clinician can check whether irritation, yeast, allergy, or another skin problem is responsible and choose an appropriate treatment.

Ask: Does this look like irritation or a yeast-related rash? Which cleanser, barrier product, or medicine should we use, and how often? What signs would mean the rash needs review? Could recent diarrhoea, antibiotics, or a new product be contributing?