Napkin Rash : An Ayurvedic and Modern Medical...

Napkin Rash : An Ayurvedic and Modern Medical Perspective – A Comprehensive Review

Author Name : Dr Ganesh Patil, Dr. Sandip Daberao, Dr. Deepak Khawale

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56025/IJARESM.2026.14082604

ABSTRACT Napkin rash, also known as diaper dermatitis, is one of the most frequently occurring inflammatory skin conditions among infants. It affects the diaper-covered region due to continuous exposure of delicate infant skin to moisture, urine, fecal matter, friction, and microbial imbalance. Although it is generally a mild and self-limiting condition, improper care may lead to severe inflammation, secondary fungal or bacterial infection, discomfort, and disturbance in feeding and sleep patterns of infants. Modern medicine describes diaper dermatitis as a multifactorial inflammatory disorder involving disruption of the epidermal barrier, increased skin permeability, prolonged moisture exposure, increased skin pH, enzymatic irritation from feces, and colonization by microorganisms such as Candida albicans. Management primarily focuses on maintaining skin integrity through proper hygiene, frequent diaper changes, use of protective barrier preparations, and specific treatment of infections whenever required. Ayurveda describes skin disorders under the broad concept of Twak Vikara. Although napkin rash is not directly mentioned as a separate disease entity in classical Ayurvedic texts, its clinical manifestations can be understood through conditions involving Pitta and Kapha Dosha imbalance, local inflammation, itching, burning sensation, redness, and tissue irritation. Ayurvedic principles emphasize maintaining balance of Dosha, protection of skin, proper cleansing, and use of soothing and healing substances. This article provides an integrated overview of napkin rash by combining modern dermatological understanding with Ayurvedic concepts, highlighting preventive measures and therapeutic approaches for effective infant skin care.