Cornstarch and Diaper Rash

With all the rampant stomach flu going around, we have seen our share of bad diaper rash in the emergency department. When I ask parents what they use for diaper rash, one of the common responses I get is “cornstarch”. Cornstarch and diaper rash might seem like a great combination but does it really work?

If the rash is not caused by yeast, cornstarch may help in keeping the skin dry; however, a nice moist diaper is the perfect environment for yeast to grow. Cornstarch is basically food for yeast. When you apply cornstarch to a diaper rash, you may in fact be worsening the rash instead of promoting healing. If the rash is not a fungal rash, I recommend that you use triple paste or “butt paste”. It provides a great barrier against moisture and allows the skin to heal.

Cornstarch is also a common ingredient in some teething remedies which may result in oral thrush. So ALWAYS read the ingredients on all medications that you give to your baby.