In the majority of cases, diaper rash improves with use of over-the-counter treatments that contain products such as petrolatum, zinc oxide, and Vitamin A&D. In some instances, a rash in the diaper area can be due to a yeast called Candida. If a diaper rash is not going away within a few days with over-the-counter topical treatments; gets worse; has beefy red areas with scattered red bumps and involves the insides of the skin folds; it may be due to Candida. If it looks like this is the case, your provider will prescribe a topical medication to treat the yeast rash.
In rare cases, a rash in the diaper area may be due to a bacterial infection. Minor bacterial infections can be treated with topical antibacterial medications that your provider can prescribe. More severe bacterial rashes may require an antibiotic medication taken by mouth. When children younger than 3 months old have signs of a bacterial rash, and for any children with severe rash or associated symptoms such as fever or irritability, they will likely need to see a doctor in-person and may require more observation and treatment. (REASONS TO SEEK EMERGENCY CARE)