DIAPER AND SKIN FOLD RASHES AND THE HAIR DRIER
Glenn Austin MD, FAAP
Wet macerated skin in the diaper area and in the skin folds under the chin, in the axilla, groin and between the buttocks predisposes to rashes. Most yeast, fungi and bacteria grow better on macerated skin than on dry skin. While frequent changes of disposable diapers with or without moisture absorbing chemicals seems to have reduced such rashes, the problem still exists. It often seems more prevalent among babies in crowded day care situations with a low ratio of caretakers to babies needing changing.
Over the last ten years I have found that the use of a hair drier to intermittently completely dry the skin in these areas leads to healthier skin and fewer rashes. This technique is especially helpful for plump babies where the skin is usually moist in the creases of the neck, groin and axilla and between the buttocks. Once the skin has been completely dried a light application of powder in the creases tends to keep the skin dry longer and less irritated. Bun warmers work.
