Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffThe best treatment for diaper rash is to keep your baby's skin as clean and dry as possible. If your baby's diaper rash persists during home treatment, your doctor may prescribe:
- An antifungal cream
- A mild hydrocortisone cream
Use creams or ointments with steroids only if your baby's pediatrician or dermatologist recommends them — strong steroids or frequent use can lead to additional problems.
Diaper rashes usually require several days to improve and can continue for weeks. If the rash persists despite prescription treatment, your doctor may recommend that your baby see a dermatologist.
- Horil KA. Overview of diaper dermatitis in infants and children. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Cydulka RK, et al. Diaper dermatitis. In: Marx JA, et al., eds. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby; 2006. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Diaper dermatitis. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. http://www.aocd.org/skin/dermatologic_diseases/diaper_dermatitis.html. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Adam R. Skin care of the diaper area. Pediatric Dermatology. 2008;25:427.
- What can I do if my baby gets diaper rash? American Academy of Pediatrics. http://www.healthychildren.org/english/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/pages/Diaper-Rash-Solution.aspx. Accessed Jan. 12, 2010.
- Hoecker JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Jan. 14, 2010.

Find Mayo Clinic on