Candida is a type of yeast that thrives in places that are warm and moist. It grows naturally on the skin and in the mouth. If it grows out of control, it can cause an infection. Candida can cause infections in the genital area, in skin folds, in the mouth, and under the breasts.
Anyone can get this infection. But it's more common in infants and older adults. It's also more common in a person with a weak immune system because of diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or cancer. And it’s more common in people who have been on antibiotics, corticosteroids, or cancer therapy. Other risk factors may include:
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Being overweight.
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Having incontinence (leaking urine).
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Wearing tight-fitting clothing.
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Using splints, braces, or artificial limbs.
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Doing activities with lots of skin-to-skin contact.
Candida causes the skin to become bright red and inflamed. The border of the infected part of the skin is often raised. The infection causes pain and itching. Sometimes the skin peels and bleeds.
In the mouth, candida is called thrush. It may cause white thickened areas on the tongue, roof of the mouth, and inner sides of cheeks.
A candida rash is most often treated with an antifungal cream, gel, or powder. The rash will clear a few days after starting the medicine. Infections that don’t go away may need a prescription medicine. In rare cases, a bacterial infection can also occur.
Home care
Your doctor may advise using an antifungal cream, powder, or gel for the rash. They may also prescribe a medicine for the itch. Follow all instructions for using these medicines.
General care
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Keep your skin clean by washing the area twice a day.
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Use the medicine as directed until your rash is gone. Once the skin has healed, keep it dry to prevent another infection.
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If you are overweight, talk with your doctor about a plan to lose extra weight.
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Don't wear tight-fitting clothes.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your doctor as advised. Your rash will clear up in 7 to 14 days. Contact your doctor if the rash isn't gone after 14 days.
When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor right away if you have:
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Pain or redness that gets worse or spreads.
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Fluid coming from the skin.
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Yellow crusts on the skin.
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Chills.
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Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your doctor.
Author: Wheeler, Brooke
Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Vinita Wadhawan Researcher
Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
