Prevent Skin Yeast Infections

Introduction
Yeast--most commonly Candidia albicans--is found on healthy skin. It only becomes a problem when your skin is damaged by small tears and cuts caused by chaffing and rubbing. Yeast can enter the skin at these points, take root and grow out of control. People who suffer from diabetes have a higher risk of yeast infections of the skin, as well as individuals who have a weakened immune system--although anyone can get a yeast infection. Common yeast infections include athlete's foot, diaper rash and vaginal yeast infections--all areas where rubbing or chaffing occur.

Step 1: Keep the area clean and dry. Any areas of the skin that are prone to infection--a baby's bottom or the feet--should be kept clean and free of moisture. Wash the area with a mild soap that doesn't have added fragrances. Pat the area dry and avoid rubbing, which can irritate the skin and cause small tears where the yeast can take hold. If your baby is susceptible to yeast infections, change her diaper more frequently than needed to prevent moisture.

Step 2: Wear loose fitting clothing, preferably made of cotton. Cotton will not hold in moisture as much as other fabrics do, so your skin will stay dry and you'll decrease your chance of getting a yeast infection. For athlete's foot, frequently change your socks. Babies who are susceptible to diaper yeast infections should be given time to go without a diaper so the skin can breathe and dry completely. Yeast likes warm, moist areas to grow, so don't give them any.

Step 3: Eat yogurt. Eating yogurt with live cultures will help your body balance the normal bacteria balance found on your skin and other vulnerable areas. Using plain yogurt as a topical treatment can also produce results. If you already have a yeast infection, spread a little bit of plain yogurt over the infected area to help balance out the bacteria and yeast on your skin. Not only will it help keep the yeast in control, it will provide cool comfort for the infected skin.

Step 4: Don't scratch. Scratching areas of the skin can provide much needed relief. Unfortunately, scratching the skin can also cause small tears and abrasions that provide yeast the perfect spot to start growing.

Step 5: If you continue to get recurrent skin yeast infections see your health care provider. The skin infections may be a symptom of an underlying condition that needs treatment. Keep an accurate record of your infections and what you've done to prevent and treat them, as that will be helpful to your provider.