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In some cases, inflammation may lead to a break in the skin barrier, which may lead to a secondary yeast infection. However, effective treatment is available for yeast infections, too.
Avoid overwashing the diaper area. It's a natural tendency of parents to want to clean this area, but overwashing further removes protective oils from the skin and may irritate it. If the child’s diaper only contains urine, one can dry off the diaper area with a dry cloth and excessive cleaning is not required.
If the diaper contains stool after the child has had a bowel movement, the area can be cleaned using a Kleenex with mineral or baby oil instead of soap and water. Frequent diaper changes are often helpful.
Avoid using the “baby wipes” during this time because they may cause irritation.
With treatment, diaper rashes typically resolve within 3-4 days. A mild pinkness may remain, but this is often due to a sensitivity in the skin and is not worrisome.