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Diaper rash is a general term to describe several different kinds of skin conditions that occur in the diaper covered area. The different types of diaper rash include:

• Irritant contact dermatitis. The most common form of diaper rash, which can make the genital area, thighs and buttocks appear red and puffy. The rash commonly follows bouts of diarrhea. An associated type of rash due to the edges or bindings of the diaper rubbing against the skin is called tidemark dermatitis. Irritant contact dermatitis comes and goes, generally causing mild discomfort.
  
  
• Atopic dermatitis. The most common form of eczema, this type of rash shows up as red and scaly patches on the legs and in the groin area. This rash may start in other areas of the body first and then spread to the diaper area when the infant is between six and 12 months old. Atopic dermatitis may be caused by genetic predisposition to allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma and allergies.
  
  
• Candidal dermatitis. This is a rash caused by a yeast infection and is very tender and painful. The rash appears in the fold of the genitals, legs and creases of abdomen and thighs. The rash begins as small red spots that become more numerous and then form together as a raised bright red rash with distinct edges. The most common cause is a baby that has been or is taking antibiotics.
  
  
• Perianal dermatitis. This rash appears as a bright to dark redness around the anus. The feces of bottle fed babies are more alkaline and the alkalinity may be the cause of this rash. This rash does not normally appear in breast-fed babies until they begin eating solids.
  
  
• Seborrheic dermatitis. This rash appears as a deep red, rough, raised rash that often has yellowish scales. This type of rash usually starts on the scalp and is known as cradle cap, although it may start in the diaper area and then spread up the body. The rash is caused by overactive oil glands in the skin. The rash usually occurs in infants under three months old.
  
  
• Impetigo. Either a rash that is yellow–brown and crusty or pus filled pimples or blisters surrounded by a red area. This rash can appear anywhere on the body from the face to the thighs, including the diaper area. Impetigo is caused by a bacterial infection and may require treatment with a prescribed topical or oral antibiotic.
  
  
• Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. This is an infection that starts as a rash, usually around the diaper area or bellybutton in babies. The area around the rash gets red and painful and may spread all over the body. Large blisters then form in affected areas. These blisters break easily and the skin peels off when touched. It is caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and requires treatment with a prescribed antibiotic.
  
  
• Intertrigo. A red rash which occurs as a result of skin rubbing on skin. It is usually found in the folds between the thighs and abdomen. The rash commonly follows bouts of diarrhea.
  
  
• Miliaria. A rash that is the result of exposure to high heat and humidity. The diapered area may become very sweaty when it is hot. The lack of airflow and holding sweat tightly against the skin can create the ideal situation for a miliaria rash. The rash also commonly follows bouts of diarrhea.
  
  
• Psoriasis. A chronic and common skin condition that is often associated with family history. It often involves the scalp and nails but may occur in the diaper area. Psoriasis is often responsive to steroid medications. The condition is not responsive to barrier creams or antifungal medications.