Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Yeast Infection Rash?

Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee

A yeast infection rash can occur when Candidiasis yeast infect the skin. There are more than 20 species of Candidiasis yeast, but Candidiasis albicans may be the most common cause of yeast skin infections. The skin normally repels yeast, but skin infections can occur in moist, warm areas such as the underarms, the groin, or in skin folds. Unlike systemic or oral yeast infections, skin yeast infections do not usually require extensive medical treatment. Symptoms are often easily recognizable and medications to treat a rash from a yeast infection are available both over the counter and by prescription.

One common type of skin yeast infection rash is candidal diaper rash. Candidiasis yeast can easily take hold in the diaper region, because the warmth and moisture there can easily impair the skin's ability to withstand yeast organisms. Candidal diaper rash typically causes a flat, red rash. The edges of this rash are often sharp and scalloped. Smaller rashes may appear in the region; these rashes are commonly known as satellite lesions or pustules.

An antifungal cream, which can be used to treat a yeast infection rash.
An antifungal cream, which can be used to treat a yeast infection rash.

Another type of yeast infection rash, intertrigo, may occur in skin folds, under the breasts, or in other warm, moist areas such as the groin or underarms. Just as with candidal diaper rash, these areas are allowed to remain moist, which can damage the integrity of the skin. Wounds in the area can also allow Candidiasis yeast to take hold and cause an infection. Intertrigo typically causes the skin in body folds to appear red and softened.

A yeast infection rash generally appears in the folds of a baby's skin.
A yeast infection rash generally appears in the folds of a baby's skin.

Excessive sweating, lack of movement, or antibiotic use can cause a rash associated with a yeast infection. This is known as a candidal body rash. When this condition occurs in newborn infants, it is generally known as congential cutaneous candidiasis. Congential cutaneous candidiasis usually occurs when a mother spreads a yeast infection to her infant as it passes through the birth canal. The yeast infection rash may appear within hours of birth.

Antifungal creams are available both over the counter and by prescription.
Antifungal creams are available both over the counter and by prescription.

Erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica is yeast infection of the finger webs. Diabetics are at risk for this type of yeast infection rash, as are those whose hands come into frequent, extended contact with water. Erosio interdigitalis blastomycetica causes redness and softening of the skin in the finger webs.

Most yeast skin infections don't require extensive medical treatment. Antifungal creams and ointments, available over the counter or by prescription, can usually clear them up. Oral medications like fluconazole can be helpful in the treatment of yeast infection rashes. In addition to using topical or oral medication, sufferers are typically advised to keep the area clean and dry.

Discussion Comments

candyquilt

@anamur-- Yes, they do look different. A yeast infection skin rash is more raised than a regular diaper rash and can have scales. Yeast infection rash also tends to form in clusters and may be redder in color.

My daughter also had a yeast infection rash as a newborn. I thought it was a diaper rash at first but it became obvious that it was something else because the rash didn't get better at all after several days. Usually a diaper rash will get better after a few days of treatment with ointments. A yeast infection rash doesn't get better without prescription treatments.

ddljohn

I have a systemic candida infection. It causes rashes under my arms, between my legs and the groin area.

I've used prescription topical creams and they do cure it but as soon as the treatment is over, the rash returns.

As a final hope, I've started a candida diet. I'm staying away from foods containing yeast, as well as carbohydrates and sugar. I hope it works.

serenesurface

What's the difference between a regular diaper rash and a yeast infection rash? Do they look different? Can I tell them apart?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • An antifungal cream, which can be used to treat a yeast infection rash.
      By: picsfive
      An antifungal cream, which can be used to treat a yeast infection rash.
    • A yeast infection rash generally appears in the folds of a baby's skin.
      By: Pakhnyushchyy
      A yeast infection rash generally appears in the folds of a baby's skin.
    • Antifungal creams are available both over the counter and by prescription.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Antifungal creams are available both over the counter and by prescription.
    • Yeast infections may develop as a result of wearing too tight underwear.
      By: markos86
      Yeast infections may develop as a result of wearing too tight underwear.
    • Women with diabetes are prone to yeast infections.
      By: brankatekic
      Women with diabetes are prone to yeast infections.
    • Yogurt may help treat a yeast infection.
      By: nenetus
      Yogurt may help treat a yeast infection.
    • Antibiotic use can cause a rash associated with a yeast infection.
      By: brankatekic
      Antibiotic use can cause a rash associated with a yeast infection.