Skin Yeast Infection

The skin is the largest organ in the body. It protects the inner organs, and releases toxins from the body.

Skin yeast infections are called cutaneous candidiasis and are caused by yeast-like fungi called candida. They occur when yeast on the skin grows more actively and causes a red, scaling, itchy rash on the skin. Sometimes skin lesions can be a sign of a systemic yeast infection.

Yeast infections can occur on nearly any part of the skin surface, but are most likely to occur in moist, warm areas such as the armpit and the groin. The skin yeast infection is also common in people who are obese or people who are taking or have taken antibiotics. People with immune diseases and who have low immunity for other reasons are also at risk. Thus diabetes is a risk factor.

In babies and infants the skin yeast infection can present as a diaper rash. Candida can also cause infections of the nail, mouth and vagina.

Symptoms of yeast infection in skin folds include:

Rash

Patches that ooze clear fluid

Pimples

Itching or burning

Signs of yeast infection in the nail beds include:

Swelling

Pain

Pus

White or yellow nail that separates from the nail bed

It is often apparent by a visual inspection if a rash is a candida infection. To confirm that diagnosis the medical practitioner may take a scraping or swab to test. The swab may be mixed with potassium hydroxide and examined for a branching pattern consistent with yeast. The same test may be used by taking skin flakes and putting them on a slide with potassium hydroxide. The slide is examined under the microscope.

Some medical treatments include:

Lotrimin creams and lotions

Other antifungal creams

Avoiding moisture on the affected area, keeping it clean and dry

For diaper rashes, frequent diaper changes and the use of barrier creams

Nystatin powder.

Some natural topical agents include:

Raw unprocessed honey

Yogurt

Fresh garlic

Lactobacilli

Iodine

Gentian violet

Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar

Tea tree oil

Boric acid

Chickweed ointment

Hydrogen peroxide

Organic coconut oil

Aloe vera gel

Oregano oil

For complete details about curing skin yeast infections as well as other yeast infections we recommend Linda Allen’s system at Yeast Infection No More. Linda explains how to use the topical applications as well as detailing how to cure yourself completely of yeast infections.