Fungal diaper rash? How to identify it with red bottoms and open sores

Fungal diaper rash is not always easy to distinguish from regular baby red bottom. Both sometimes look similar, but fungal diaper rash is a specific form of diaper rash that can be clearly distinguished from other types, such as diaper rash with open sores. This is important for proper treatment and therefore also for the well-being of your toddler.

In this blog, you'll learn how to distinguish between fungal diaper rash and other diaper rashes, what the signs are of baby red bottom and how to recognize diaper rash with open sores. Not only do we explain the difference between diaper rash and fungal diaper rash, we also explain how to identify it and what the best course of action is. This way, you're well prepared and know best what to look for to help your child's skin become calm and healthy again.

Fungal or diaper rash?

Fungal rash is a form of diaper rash. It's caused by a fungal infection from the 'candida fungus' and makes the skin more intensely red than with regular diaper rash.

The fungal infection develops because the skin in the diaper remains warm and moist, causing irritation and red bottoms. When the candida fungus is present, it results in fungal diaper rash. Fungal diaper rash differs from normal diaper rash in three visible characteristics:

1. More intense redness

The skin is also often shiny.

2. More defined edges than with baby red bottom

These edges are sharper with fungal diaper rash than with normal diaper rash.

3. Surrounded by small red bumps or spots

The base of the infection (bright red, shiny) is surrounded by small, red spots.

It's important to discover (at an early stage) whether diaper rash is also fungal diaper rash, because the approach differs: while regular diaper rash improves with good, natural care and air, fungal diaper rash usually needs separate treatment.

Difference between fungal diaper rash and baby red bottom

Many parents see baby red bottom as another word for diaper rash, but not every red skin is the same. Baby red bottom can occur due to friction, moisture, or too long a time in the diaper. Fungal diaper rash is recognizable by the redder areas with shiny skin, and small red dots or spots around it.

Fungal rash therefore looks more irregular and noticeable. Although the differences can be subtle, it's important to examine the diaper rash carefully: baby red bottom is less severe and will clear up with proper care. Want to know more about this? Read our blog Diaper rash, which ointment? The best bottom cream for your baby. Did you know that baby red bottom can quickly develop due to irritation or non-natural diapers? That's why it's wise to choose diapers without lotions, fragrances, or chlorine, for example these Moomin baby diapers.

Diaper rash open sores versus fungal diaper rash

Diaper rash can result in diaper rash open sores. This can be painful for your baby, but doesn't necessarily mean there's a fungal infection. Fungal diaper rash looks different: the skin is bright red, shiny, and has clearly defined borders. There are also often small red dots or spots alongside the infection. Read on quickly to discover how best to counter fungal diaper rash. Want to prevent baby red bottom? Then it's good to use a bottom cream of natural origin.

When diaper rash becomes more severe, open sores can develop. This often happens because the skin is so irritated and vulnerable that small cracks or wet spots become visible. Both types of diaper rash require a different approach: a fungal infection often needs to be treated with an antifungal cream that can be prescribed by a doctor, while open sores mainly require soothing, protection, and plenty of fresh air. The ultimate guide to treating baby red bottom? Read our blog Red bumps on child's bottom? How to treat and prevent it now.

What to do with red bottoms with open sores?

With fungal diaper rash, regular care is usually not enough. Because the skin is infected with a fungus (usually Candida), the rash often remains persistent and painful as long as there is no effective treatment. A doctor or pharmacist can recommend or prescribe a special antifungal cream that fights the infection. It's also important to continue with basic care: change diapers more frequently, gently clean and dry the skin, and regularly let your baby lie without a diaper so the skin can air out.

Furthermore, it's better not to use perfumed wipes or irritating creams: they can further damage the skin. Choose, for example, the ecological baby wipes from Smartkids and the natural bottom cream from Derma. Keep a close eye on the skin: if the rash doesn't improve despite treatment or even spreads, it's advisable to contact your doctor again. When in doubt: always contact your doctor.

How to recognize fungal diaper rash

Baby red bottom is a common problem, but not all redness is the same. Fungal diaper rash is a form of normal diaper rash that occurs as a result of an infection. Baby red bottom and diaper rash with open sores require extra care and protection of the skin, for example with natural baby care. Fungal diaper rash, on the other hand, requires targeted (sometimes specialized) treatment with a prescribed antifungal cream. By paying close attention to symptoms such as redness, sharp edges, and small red spots, you'll recognize the difference in time and take the right steps. This way, your child's skin will quickly become healthy, soft, and pain-free again.