Candidiasis of the Skin

Candidiasis of the skin or cutaneous candidiasis is an overgrowth of Candida that develops and causes infection on the skin. Although most of the bacteria and fungi are not dangerous and are needed to carry out normal functions of our body, some can cause these infections when they uncontrollably multiply.

Candidiasis of the skin results to redness, itchiness and rash in the folds of the skin that may be spread to other areas of the body. Proper hygiene and antifungal creams and powders help treat this infection. Blisters and pustules may also occur and the infection may cause the skin to crack and become sore.

Candidiasis may affect many parts of the body and may develop in the armpits, groin, between fingers, under the breasts, in the nails, edges of the nails and in the corners of the mouth.

Causes of Candidiasis

Warm weather, tight clothing, poor hygiene, infrequent changing of garments, obesity, antibiotics that kill harmless bacteria, medications that affect immune system like corticosteroids, diabetes, pregnancy and other medical condition that weakens the immune system and damp or wet skin can  lead to infection of the skin.

Helpful Tips

• Change damp or wet clothing as soon as possible
• Regular changing of socks and undergarments
• Loose-fitting clothes should be worn
• Gentle and unscented soaps should be used on the affected area
• Include probiotics on our diet
• Reduce sugar intake since it contribute to Candida infection.
• It is most important to practice proper and healthy hygiene by washing regularly your skin and drying it thoroughly.

For severe cases of candidiasis, your doctor may recommend the use of antifungal cream powder that can be topically used to treat and kill Candida and minimize the spread of infection. Oral antifungal may be taken if infection has spread in our throat or mouth.

Candidiasis is a natural occurrence for babies and infants. You should frequently change diaper and cloth your baby with loose clothes. When cracked skin occurs in the corners of the babies mouth, your doctor may prescribe antifungal cream. This condition is called oral thrush.

Children are also prone to candidiasis through sucking of thumbs and after receiving antibiotics as treatment for other conditions. Either way, candidiasis is best avoided if proper hygiene is practiced.