Relentless Diaper Rash, or Something Else?

Diaper Rash is common. But sometimes, its actually Not Diaper Rash!

Diaper Rash....
The Diaper is on a little long, the skin gets pretty damp, red and maybe bumpy. Its very tender, and if you haven't noticed already, sometimes baby wipes actually hurt more! The reason is, that some wipes contain alcohol, and it can tend to sting. The other option for clean wiping, is to use a warm wet washcloth, or warm wet papertowel.
Dry the clean skin (I like to waft the new diaper around making a quick breeze...), and apply a diaper rash ointment or cream. Both are usually made with Zinc Oxide, designed to protect the skin from wetness so that it can heal. It doesn't have any pain reliever it in, so if its bothersome enough, you can give them a little dose of Tylenol for comfort.
If the skin is open or bleeding (ouch!!) then it will need to be treated with some type of healing ointment first. I have been known to use a little Neosporin. Diaper rash cream will only irritate the wounded skin, so try the antibiotic ointment first. Maybe add an extra dash of baby powder for added wetness absorption.
But Sometimes....
The rash will not heal no matter how much cream you use. It doesn't seem to get any better, and may even spread. The most obvious sign that it is actually NOT diaper rash, is that when the rash is touched, they don't jump in pain. If they don't even seem to be uncomfortable there, then it is probably a fungal infection. It is also common, and mis-diagnosed frequently. The solution is simple, once you realize that pesky rash is not diaper rash. The Athlete's Foot creams, will do the trick. They come in small tubes, and can be a little costly. You may need to buy two, so you have enough on hand. Just be sure to apply it externally only, with every diaper change, and within a day or so the rash should clear up. Without the anti-fungal cream, it will not get better.
With any diaper rash or anti-fungal creams & ointments....
Generic brands are just as good as the name brands. Just compare the active ingredients. Many generic or store-brand products are made by the name-brand companies anyways!!