Tribological and mycological consequences of the use of a miconazole nitrate-containing paste for the prevention of diaper dermatitis: an open pilot study.

UNLABELLED: The diaper environment increases the coefficient of skin friction and compromises the function of the stratum corneum. In this study, the tribological and mycological benefit of the use of a miconazole nitrate-containing paste on diapered skin was evaluated. A total of 135 instrumental measurements of both erythema and stratum corneum alterations were made on alternate days for 3 weeks in 15 infants. Biometrological parameters were the chromacity a* of the skin and the squamometry index. Cultures testing for Candida albicans were also performed. In the days following the use of the paste, the chromacity a*, the squamometry index and the number of positive cultures of C. albicans were significantly reduced compared to the same evaluations made off treatment.

CONCLUSION: Miconazole nitrate-containing paste reduces the tribological interference between cloth diapers and skin as well as providing the diapered skin with an improved microbial environment.