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Diaper Dermatitis (Diaper Rash)

Most diaper rash clears with barrier cream and frequent changes — but when it's bright red, raised, spreading, or just not budging, it may have a yeast component that needs prescription treatment. Instead of booking a pediatrician visit, walk into our Orleans pharmacy: a licensed pharmacist can assess your baby's rash and prescribe an antifungal or mild corticosteroid when needed. Free with OHIP.

Diaper dermatitis is skin irritation in the diaper area caused mainly by moisture, friction, and contact with urine and stool. It's the most common skin problem of infancy — and it affects anyone who wears diapers or incontinence products, at any age.

Simple rash or yeast rash?

An irritant rash looks pink-to-red on the rounded surfaces, often sparing the skin folds. A rash that's bright red, raised, involves the folds, or is dotted with small 'satellite' spots at the edges likely has a Candida (yeast) component — and barrier cream alone won't clear it. That distinction changes the treatment, and it's exactly what the pharmacist checks during the assessment.

Diaper dermatitis is the most common dermatologic disorder of infancy, with peak incidence around 9–12 months of age. Factors that raise skin pH — urine and stool in contact with skin — are the biggest drivers, which is why change frequency matters more than any cream.

Common signs and symptoms

Redness and irritation on the diaper area's rounded surfaces
Bright red, raised rash involving skin folds (suggests yeast)
Small red 'satellite' spots at the rash edges (suggests yeast)
Fussiness with diaper changes
Broken, weeping, or ulcerated skin in severe cases

Treatments our Orleans pharmacist can prescribe

For your information only: in Ontario, our pharmacist can assess this condition and, when appropriate, prescribe from the medications listed below. This information is provided for educational purposes — it is not an offer to sell. These are treatments that require a pharmacist assessment, and the right option is chosen for you.

Antifungals (when yeast is involved): Ciclopirox, Clotrimazole, Ketoconazole, Miconazole, Nystatin

Anti-inflammatory agents: Desonide, Hydrocortisone

Self-care that helps

Zinc oxide barrier creams/pastes (e.g., Zincofax, Penaten) — use a thicker 20–40% paste for an active rash
Petroleum jelly / petrolatum as a protective barrier
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes (or a soft wet cloth)
Change every 2–3 hours (more often with diarrhea) and allow diaper-free air time
Avoid plastic pants, double-diapering, and products with alcohol, perfume, or lanolin

Browse related over-the-counter options in our Diaper Dermatitis (Diaper Rash) self-care collection, or ask us in store — our pharmacists will point you to what actually helps.

How the assessment works

1. Walk in or callNo appointment or referral needed. Drop by our pharmacy on St-Joseph Blvd in Orleans during opening hours, or call ahead.

2. Private consultationA licensed pharmacist reviews your symptoms, health history and medications in a short, private assessment.

3. Prescription in handIf appropriate, we prescribe and fill your treatment on the spot — you leave with what you need.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if it's a yeast diaper rash?

Yeast rashes are typically bright red and raised, involve the skin folds, and show small satellite spots around the edges. If the rash fits that picture — or hasn't improved after several days of barrier cream — bring your baby in and we'll assess it.

Can the pharmacist assess my baby?

Yes — infants can be assessed with a parent or guardian present. We'll examine the rash pattern, rule out red flags, and prescribe an antifungal or mild corticosteroid if it's warranted.

Does this apply to adults with incontinence products?

Yes. Incontinence-associated dermatitis follows the same principles — barrier protection, gentle cleansing, and prescription treatment when yeast is involved. Assessments are done discreetly.

Is the pharmacist assessment covered by OHIP?

Yes. The minor ailment assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card. You only pay for the medication itself if one is prescribed, and that is often covered by your drug plan.

Do I need an appointment at your Orleans pharmacy?

No. Walk-ins are welcome during all pharmacy hours — Monday to Friday 9:00 AM–6:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM–3:00 PM. You can also call 613-824-3111 ahead of your visit.

When to see a doctor instead: See a health-care provider if the rash hasn't improved after 7 days of care or is getting worse, looks infected (oozing, blisters, pus, or spreading redness), or comes with a fever. For very young infants, check with your pharmacist before using any medicated product.

Rash not clearing? We can help.

Skip the walk-in clinic wait. Our Orleans pharmacists assess and prescribe for diaper rash — free with your Ontario health card.

Call 613 · 824 · 3111 Hours & directions

Serving Orleans and east Ottawa — Fallingbrook, Avalon, Chapel Hill, Queenswood Heights, Blackburn Hamlet, Navan & Cumberland. 2746 St-Joseph Blvd, Unit 100, Orleans, ON K1C 1G5.