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Skin Yeast Infection

Skin Yeast Infection At A Glance

  • A skin yeast infection, or cutaneous candidiasis, develops when Candida yeast grows excessively on the skin.
  • It most often occurs in warm, moist skin folds such as the groin, armpits, under the breasts or abdomen, between the buttocks, and between fingers or toes.
  • Symptoms may include a bright red or discolored rash, itching, burning, tenderness, moist or shiny skin, small bumps, pustules, scaling, or cracked skin.
  • Risk factors include sweating, prolonged moisture, skin folds, tight clothing, diabetes, obesity, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and weakened immunity.
  • Diagnosis is usually based on examination, with skin scraping or fungal testing used when the cause is uncertain or symptoms persist.
  • Treatment commonly includes antifungal medication and keeping the affected area clean, dry, and protected from excess friction or moisture.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What Is Skin Yeast Infection?

A skin yeast infection, also called cutaneous candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. Candida normally lives on the skin without causing problems, but warm, moist environments can allow the yeast to multiply and cause an infection. (medlineplus.gov)

Skin yeast infections most often develop in skin folds where heat and moisture become trapped, including under the breasts, in the groin, between the buttocks, under the abdomen, between fingers or toes, and in the armpits. Babies commonly develop a yeast-related diaper rash.

A skin yeast infection is usually treatable with antifungal medications. Most infections improve with proper treatment and by keeping the affected area clean and dry.

Learn More

Fungal Infections – NIH MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/fungalinfections.html

Provides easy-to-understand information about fungal infections, symptoms, treatment, and prevention.

Candidiasis – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/

Provides information about Candida infections affecting the skin, mouth, bloodstream, and other parts of the body.

How Common Is Skin Yeast Infection?

Skin yeast infections are very common and can occur in people of all ages. They are more likely to develop in areas where skin rubs together or stays moist.

People with obesity, diabetes, weakened immune systems, or those taking antibiotics or corticosteroids may have a higher risk of developing cutaneous candidiasis. Infants commonly develop Candida diaper rash because of prolonged moisture and skin irritation.

Learn More

Risk Factors for Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/risk-factors/

Explains who is more likely to develop Candida infections and why.

What Symptoms Might You Notice?

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the infection.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Bright red rash
  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Soreness
  • Tenderness
  • Moist or shiny skin
  • Small red bumps
  • Pustules
  • Satellite lesions (small red spots surrounding the main rash)
  • White patches or scaling
  • Cracked skin
  • Peeling skin
  • Skin breakdown
  • Unpleasant odor in severe infections

Common locations include:

  • Groin
  • Armpits
  • Under the breasts
  • Under the abdomen
  • Between the buttocks
  • Between fingers
  • Between toes
  • Diaper area
  • Around the genitals

How Is Skin Yeast Infection Diagnosed?

A healthcare provider usually diagnoses a skin yeast infection by examining the rash and reviewing your symptoms and medical history.

They may ask about:

  • When the rash began
  • Itching or burning
  • Moisture exposure
  • Diabetes
  • Recent antibiotics
  • Corticosteroid use
  • Immune disorders
  • Previous fungal infections

Additional testing may be recommended if the diagnosis is uncertain or the infection does not improve with treatment.

Learn More

Fungal Infections – NIH MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/fungalinfections.html

Provides information about diagnosing fungal skin infections.

Skin Yeast Infection infographic – click to enlarge

What Causes Skin Yeast Infection?

Skin yeast infections occur when Candida yeast grows excessively on the skin.

Common causes and contributing factors include:

  • Warm, humid environments
  • Excessive sweating
  • Skin folds
  • Tight clothing
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Antibiotic use
  • Corticosteroid use
  • Weakened immune system
  • Prolonged moisture
  • Poorly fitting diapers
  • Friction between skin surfaces

Candida thrives in moist environments. When moisture remains trapped against the skin, the normal balance of microorganisms can be disrupted, allowing yeast to multiply.

Learn More

Risk Factors for Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/risk-factors/

Explains how moisture, medications, diabetes, and immune-system changes increase the risk of Candida infections.

What Can Make Skin Yeast Infection Worse?

Several factors can worsen symptoms or delay healing.

Common factors include:

  • Continued moisture
  • Sweating
  • Tight clothing
  • Wearing wet clothing
  • Obesity
  • Poor blood sugar control
  • Scratching
  • Skin friction
  • Delaying treatment
  • Using topical steroids without medical guidance
  • Poor hygiene
  • Incomplete antifungal treatment

Using corticosteroid creams without confirming the diagnosis may temporarily reduce redness while allowing the fungal infection to worsen.

Learn More

Fungal Skin Infections – American Academy of Dermatology
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/fungal-skin-infections-overview

Provides information about fungal skin infections and proper treatment.

Prevention

Helpful prevention tips include:

  • Keep skin folds dry.
  • Dry thoroughly after bathing.
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing.
  • Change sweaty clothing promptly.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Control diabetes.
  • Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.
  • Change diapers frequently.
  • Use prescribed medications exactly as directed.
  • Seek treatment early if symptoms develop.

Learn More

Preventing Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/prevention/

Provides recommendations for reducing the risk of Candida infections.

Learn More About Skin Yeast Infection

The following video content is provided to help you better understand this condition. These resources are intended for educational purposes and should not replace personalized medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Labs

Most uncomplicated skin yeast infections do not require blood tests.

Possible laboratory testing includes:

  • Skin Scraping with Potassium Hydroxide (KOH): Identifies yeast under a microscope.
  • Fungal Culture: Identifies the Candida species in persistent infections.
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): May evaluate infection or immune problems.
  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): May be obtained before certain medications.
  • Blood Glucose or Hemoglobin A1C: Evaluates for diabetes when recurrent infections occur.
  • Additional Immune Testing: May be recommended for severe or recurrent infections.

Learn More

Laboratory Tests – NIH MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/

Provides information about laboratory tests used to evaluate medical conditions.

Diagnostics

Most people do not require imaging.

Possible diagnostic evaluations include:

  • Physical Skin Examination: Evaluates the appearance and location of the rash.
  • Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) Preparation: Detects yeast under a microscope.
  • Fungal Culture: Identifies Candida species.
  • Skin Biopsy: Rarely needed for persistent or unusual rashes.
  • Wood’s Lamp Examination: Occasionally helps evaluate other skin conditions but is generally not diagnostic for Candida.

Learn More

Skin Biopsy – NIH MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/skin-biopsy/

Provides information about skin biopsies and when they may be performed.

Treatment & Management

Treatment Options

Treatment focuses on eliminating the yeast and reducing moisture.

Treatment options include:

  • Topical antifungal creams
  • Antifungal powders
  • Oral antifungal medications
  • Keeping the skin dry
  • Weight management when appropriate
  • Improving blood sugar control
  • Treating underlying medical conditions
  • Frequent diaper changes for infants
  • Barrier creams when appropriate

Most mild infections improve within several weeks with proper treatment.

Learn More

Treatment of Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/treatment/

Provides information about antifungal treatment for Candida infections.

Lifestyle Changes

Helpful lifestyle changes include:

  • Keep skin folds clean and dry.
  • Dry thoroughly after bathing.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing.
  • Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton.
  • Change sweaty clothing promptly.
  • Lose weight if recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Control blood sugar if you have diabetes.
  • Avoid sharing towels.
  • Use moisture-absorbing powders only if recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Change diapers frequently in infants.

Learn More

Preventing Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/prevention/

Provides recommendations for preventing Candida infections.

Medications

Common medications include:

  • Clotrimazole Cream: Over-the-counter antifungal medication.
  • Miconazole Cream: Common topical antifungal treatment.
  • Ketoconazole Cream: Prescription antifungal medication.
  • Nystatin Cream or Powder: Frequently used for Candida skin infections.
  • Econazole Cream: Prescription antifungal.
  • Ciclopirox Cream: Antifungal medication used for selected fungal infections.
  • Fluconazole: Oral antifungal medication for severe or widespread infections.
  • Itraconazole: Oral prescription antifungal used in selected patients.

Use antifungal medication for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve before treatment is completed.

Learn More

Treatment of Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/treatment/

Provides information about medications used to treat Candida infections.

Procedures

Most skin yeast infections do not require procedures.

Occasionally, management may include:

  • Professional wound care for severe skin breakdown
  • Drainage of an associated abscess if present
  • Skin biopsy for persistent or unclear rashes
  • Debridement of dead tissue in severe infections (rare)

Learn More

Fungal Infections – NIH MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/fungalinfections.html

Provides information about fungal infections and treatment.

What Should You Expect Long-Term?

Most skin yeast infections improve completely with appropriate antifungal treatment.

However, infections may recur if contributing factors such as moisture, obesity, uncontrolled diabetes, or immune suppression remain present.

People with recurrent infections may need evaluation for diabetes or other medical conditions affecting the immune system.

What Can You Do At Home?

Helpful home care includes:

  • Keep affected skin clean and dry.
  • Dry thoroughly after bathing.
  • Apply antifungal medication exactly as directed.
  • Wear loose, breathable clothing.
  • Avoid scratching.
  • Change sweaty clothing promptly.
  • Use clean towels daily.
  • Change diapers frequently in infants.
  • Monitor for worsening redness, pain, or drainage.

Learn More

Preventing Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/prevention/

Provides practical recommendations for preventing recurrent Candida infections

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a skin yeast infection contagious?

Usually not. Candida normally lives on the skin, and most skin yeast infections are not considered highly contagious.

Can poor hygiene cause a yeast infection?

Poor hygiene alone does not cause Candida infections, but prolonged moisture and skin irritation may contribute.

Can diabetes increase my risk?

Yes. High blood sugar increases the risk of Candida infections.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream?

Avoid using steroid creams unless recommended by your healthcare provider, as they can worsen fungal infections.

Can babies get skin yeast infections?

Yes. Candida commonly causes diaper rash in infants.

Questions To Ask Your Provider

Consider asking:

  • Is this definitely a yeast infection?
  • Could this be ringworm or another fungal infection?
  • Do I need testing?
  • Which antifungal medication is best?
  • Could diabetes be contributing?
  • How long should treatment take?
  • When should I return if symptoms do not improve?
  • How can I prevent another infection?

Specialist Referrals

You may be referred to:

  • Primary Care Provider: Diagnoses and treats uncomplicated skin yeast infections.
  • Dermatologist: Evaluates persistent or difficult-to-treat skin infections.
  • Endocrinologist: Assesses diabetes or hormonal conditions contributing to recurrent infections.
  • Infectious Disease Specialist: Treats severe or widespread Candida infections.
  • Wound Care Specialist: Manages severe skin breakdown.

Learn More

Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/

Provides additional information about Candida infections and treatment.

Is Skin Yeast Infection Curable?

Yes. Most skin yeast infections are completely treatable with antifungal medication and proper skin care.

Preventing recurrence often requires controlling moisture, treating underlying medical conditions, and completing the full course of treatment.

Emergency Symptoms / When To Seek Immediate Help

Skin yeast infections rarely cause emergencies.

Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Severe allergic reaction after medication

Seek prompt medical evaluation if you develop:

  • Fever
  • Rapidly spreading redness
  • Severe pain
  • Pus or foul-smelling drainage
  • Skin ulcers
  • Blackened skin
  • Symptoms that worsen despite treatment
  • Recurrent infections
  • Widespread rash in someone with a weakened immune system

Learn More

Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/

Provides information about Candida infections and when medical care is needed.

CALL 911

APNS does not provide emergency medical services. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, including (but not limited to) chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, uncontrolled bleeding, seizures, loss of consciousness, or any other potentially life-threatening condition, you are instructed to call 911 immediately or go immediately to the nearest emergency department.

Official Resources / External Links

Fungal Infections – NIH MedlinePlus
https://medlineplus.gov/fungalinfections.html

Easy-to-understand information about fungal infections affecting the skin and body.

Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/

Comprehensive information about Candida infections, risk factors, treatment, and prevention.

Treatment of Candidiasis – CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/candidiasis/treatment/

Provides guidance about antifungal medications and management.

American Academy of Dermatology – Fungal Skin Infections
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/fungal-skin-infections-overview

Dermatologist-reviewed information about fungal skin infections, diagnosis, and treatment.

This guide is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your healthcare provider. Skin yeast infections can resemble bacterial infections, eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, contact dermatitis, and other skin conditions that require different treatments. Always use antifungal medications as directed and avoid using topical steroid creams unless recommended by your healthcare provider, as they may worsen fungal infections. Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen, spread, recur frequently, or do not improve after treatment. Call 911 immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, loss of consciousness, or another medical emergency.

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