Cause of Diaper Dermatitis is damage to protective barrier of skin.
- Irritants: Skin of babies which comes under the contact of diaper gets affected. Wet napkin irritates the soft skin of babies and affects the skin folds. Prolong wetness and change of skin pH due to acidic nature of urine and ammonia in faeces; may break the outermost skin layer. This causes damage to skin.
- Chafing: Chafing or rubbing of delicate skin of baby may cause rash. Ill or tight fitted diapers may rub against the skin.
- Retained soaps: Retained soap on reusable diapers due to improper washing may cause Diaper Dermatitis.
- Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools can irritate the skin and may cause Diaper Dermatitis.
- Infections: Skin infections like Candida albicans (caused by yeast or fungus), bacterial infections (impetigo), Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, are likely to cause dermatitis in diaper area.
- Allergens: Though rare, allergic reactions can be a cause behind Diaper Dermatitis. These allergic reactions can be from chemicals, perfumes, in soaps, diaper material, lotions.
- Nutritional deficiency: Very rarely, nutritional deficiency like biotin or zinc deficiency may cause dermatitis.
