Skin Yeast Infections
Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Skin yeast infections can be bothersome. If you think you have a yeast infection on your skin, keep on reading.

We'll discuss the causes, types, symptoms and treatment options for that yeast skin rash. You'll find out how to cure your infection once and for all.

We all have a yeast known as Candida Albicans living on our skin and in various parts of our body quite happily and without causing us any problems at all. However, sometimes this Candida yeast can multiply and get out of control.

When this yeast has an overgrowth, it is known as a yeast infection or candidiasis. (For a more detailed explanation, see our page on that explains yeast infections.)

Since you are reading this article, it means you probably have a skin yeast infection and you know that they can be irritating and unsightly. So what can we do about it?

Itching? Embarassing Rashes? Click Here to Find Out What Is Causing Your Skin Yeast Infection and How to Get Rid Of It For Good

Types and Symptoms of Yeast Infection on Skin

Yeast infections, or Candidiasis, can affect the skin in the following ways:

• Baby yeast infection – Babies can suffer from oral yeast infections on their tongue, in their mouths and around their mouths, and also diaper yeast infections which affect the diaper area, groin and lower tummy. See our article on infant thrush for more detail.

• Perl eche (cheilitis) – Soreness and cracking around the mouth and lips.

• Oral thrush – White spots, a curd-like covering or red sore patches on the tongue and mouth membranes which can also affect around the mouth and down the throat. See our article on oral thrush for more detail.

• Intertrigo – A yeast infection in the folds of the skin and warm, moist areas of the body like the groin, armpits, under the breasts and in the skin folds of obese people. Intertrigo looks like a red, shiny rash which tends to have scaling at the edges. It can become itchy and sore and weep slightly.

Causes of Skin Yeast Infections

Anyone can develop an intertrigo skin yeast affection, whatever their age, gender, shape or size. However, they are more common in people who participate in sporting activities because they sweat. They also show up more in the summer time when we all naturally sweat more.

This sweaty moist area causes the yeast on the skin to multiply since it is a perfect breeding ground.

Obese people who have skin folds can also be prone to outbreaks of intertrigo because the area of skin within the folds makes a perfect breeding ground for Candida yeast because it is warm and sweaty.

People who have diabetes or are taking antibiotics are also more prone to infections. See our page on causes of yeast infections for more detail.

Treatments for a Yeast Skin Rash

There are plenty of over the counter treatments for this type of yeast infection, with most of the medications containing active ingredients like miconazole or clotrimazole.

Medications in the "-azole" family (end with azole) are antifungal medications. Yeast cell walls need ergosterol to maintain itself and the -azole family of medications block the production of ergosterol. This causes the yeast to die, and with it, the yeast infection.

Creams, sprays and powders can all be effective at treating intertrigo. Well-known brands include Canesten, Daktarin and Daktacort. Always follow the directions and check with your pharmacist if you are pregnant or have sensitive skin.

You should see a doctor if you are unsure whether you have a yeast infection or your infection is particularly serious. Your doctor will be able to prescribe the right course of treatment.

Preventing Yeast Infection of the Skin

Skin yeast infections occur when skin is warm and moist so prevention is all about keeping the skin dry. Here are some tips to keep skin yeast infections at bay:

• Wash regularly and make sure that you dry yourself properly, paying particular attention to armpits, groin, under the breast, back of the knees, between the toes and any skin folds.
• Wear loose cotton clothing, particularly loose underwear if you're prone to jock itch (a yeast infection in the groin). Natural fibers, like cotton, will reduce sweating.
• If you are a sports lover, buy special sportswear that takes moisture away from the body or that is breathable.
• If you are a woman, make sure that your bra fits properly, so that it doesn't rub, and go for cotton options.
• Dress in layers so that you can remove items when you get hot.
• Use a fan in hot weather to keep you cool.
• Try to lose weight if you are obese.
• Change underwear regularly.
• Remove swim wear or damp clothing as soon as possible.

Any measures you can take to prevent sweating will help to prevent skin yeast infections.

To  Find Out How to Get Rid of Your Yeast Infection on the Skin For Good, Click Here

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