Rash refers to any change in the skin either in its appearance, texture or color. A rash may be localized to a single part of the body or may affect the entire body. There are a host of causative factors and types of skin rashes that may manifest in different forms including itching, burning, bleeding and pain.
Rash on the buttocks is characterized by localized red and itchy bumpy papules on the skin. Itchy rash on the buttocks is more common among young toddlers, though it may be present among adults. In most cases, itchy rash on the buttocks doesn’t require any specific treatment & is often a self limiting condition.
Causes Of Itchy Rash On Buttocks In Toddlers
Itchy rash on the buttocks is most common among toddlers wearing diapers for long duration of time at a stretch (i.e. more than the recommended eight to ten hours a day). The diapers are meant to soak urine and keep the child’s buttock dry. However prolonged use of diapers, at a stretch limits their ability to absorb/ soak the urine, which in turn can lead to irritation and itching.
Further, a toddlers skin is highly sensitive and needs kept uncovered to avoid friction or skin allergies. Constant use of diapers (though changed frequently) can also cause itchy rash on the buttocks. Occasionally itchy rash on the buttocks can be a result of a side effect of a vaccination in toddlers.
In adults, itchy rash on the buttocks may be attributed to poor personal hygiene or excessive sweating, especially during summers.
Less frequent causes of itchy rash on the buttocks, which can affect both adults and toddlers include:
- Fungal infections like ringworm.
- Exposure to an allergen like insect bite, metal, medicine or a food allergen.
- Repeated friction to the skin.
Home Remedies For Itchy Rash On Buttocks
There are a host of home remedies that can help deal with itchy rash on the buttocks. These home remedies can be used for toddlers and adults alike,
- Local application of tea tree oil can help deal with rash on the buttocks, associated with a fungal infection. Tea tree oil has potent anti-bacterial and anti fungal properties, which helps fight inflammation naturally. It is recommended to add a few drops of tea tree oil to Aloe-Vera gel and apply it gently on the buttocks.
- Local application of vitamin A and vitamin E oils also has a soothing effect on the skin. Both the vitamins are essential for healthy skin growth. Their regular application will help in improving skin health and prevent itching.
- Ensure that you don’t wear wet undergarments. Keep the buttocks as dry as possible. Local application of powder talc can also help in keeping the skin dry, especially during summers. Maintain utmost personal hygiene and ensure that you wash your undergarments regularly after each use.
- Homeopathy is very useful in the treatment of itchy buttocks. Homeopathic remedy Graphitis and Nux Vomica are considered to have a profound effect on the skin and hasten healing. Both the remedies help alleviate inflammation, redness and itching.
In case simple home based measures don’t help, consult a dermatologist. It is important to have the condition diagnosed correctly to ensure appropriate treatment.