The Best Diaper Rash Creams

Buying Guide for Diaper Rash Creams

Why buy diaper rash cream?

Diaper rash happens to more than half of all babies, and it can be irritating and even painful for them. It can be caused by excessive wetness from soiled diapers, medications, illness, skin sensitivity, or even changes in diet. The good thing is that most diaper rashes will heal in a day or two with proper care, especially if you use a high-quality diaper rash cream.

What should you consider in diaper rash cream?

• Tub or Tube Size: When it comes to diaper rash cream, the size of the tub or tube matters beyond how much bang you’re getting for your buck. You may want a larger amount to keep in the nursery and a smaller amount to keep in a diaper bag or a first aid kit. You’ll want to be sure you have the right size to fit neatly into a pocket of your diaper bag if you plan to tote it around.
• Treatments: Diaper rash cream can often treat more than just diaper rash. Some creams treat other conditions such as dry skin, eczema, cradle cap, drool rash, psoriasis, or even hives. Some adults use diaper rash cream to treat dry and cracking hands, skin conditions, or sunburn.
• Ingredients: Some diaper rash creams contain petrolatum. So if you’re sensitive to it or prefer not to use it, avoid those creams. Others are made with all-natural ingredients. For a baby’s sensitive skin, you may want to consider a cream that doesn’t contain phthalates, dyes, or parabens.

Can diaper rash cream be used with every diaper change?

Some parents use diaper rash cream with each diaper change as a preventative measure. While we don’t recommend this practice for everyone, it may be a good idea if your child is prone to skin irritation or if your child has been ill. Remember to be sure your child’s bottom is completely dry before applying the diaper rash cream so that it keeps moisture out of the affected area, and ask your pediatrician what they recommend for your child.

Our Picks for the Best Diaper Rash Creams

Pros: One thing we love about this diaper rash cream is that it’s clear. It won’t stain your changing pad or your baby’s clothes. It not only works as a great diaper rash ointment, but it also works well for eczema. It works fast, and it’s been around for a century. It’s especially great at soothing and moisturizing the skin and can be used daily to prevent diaper rash. Good Housekeeping and many other publications and people approve of this stuff.

Cons: It contains petrolatum.

Bottom Line: If you want a diaper rash cream that is highly recommended, this is the one for you. It’s been around since the 1920s, and it is trusted by many parents worldwide.

 

Pros: This product works beautifully for both cradle cap and diaper rash. It has a light lavender scent that most people enjoy. It can help with a wide variety of skin irritations, and it is full of organic, natural ingredients. And though it’s a small tub, a little goes a long way.

Cons: It’s very oily and may stain clothes or bedding.

Bottom Line: This product is highly recommended if your child suffers from cradle cap or eczema. The all-natural ingredients heal skin conditions without petrolatum products, dyes, or phthalates. It even works as a natural remedy for dandruff in older kids.

 

Pros: Desitin is another popular pick by parents and pediatricians. This tube of diaper rash cream fits perfectly into almost any diaper bag. It isn’t greasy like some other creams and washes off easily when bath time comes. Use it to prevent as well as treat diaper rash.

Cons: This diaper rash cream has a strong odor.

Bottom Line: Many people love this diaper rash cream because it’s thick and protective. It heals diaper rash and prevents severe rashes from getting worse, and this diaper rash cream works great to prevent chafing.

 

Pros: This diaper rash cream spreads nicely and works on several types of rashes. It comes in a travel-size tube which is perfect for first aid kids or diaper bags. Plus, a little goes a long way with this paste. It’s very effective and another well-liked option for parents.

Cons: It can be a challenge to wash this diaper rash cream off your hands, clothes, or even your baby.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a nice, thick pasty diaper rash cream that won’t budge, this may be the one for you. It heals rashes nicely and works very well. It also doesn’t have a strong odor.

 

Pros: This diaper rash cream glides on easily and is nice and thick. It can heal diaper rash quickly, and it soothes a baby’s skin immediately. It stays in place for a long time to get to work. It doesn’t contain harmful chemicals or dyes, so you don’t have to worry about the ingredients.

Cons: It’s more expensive than some other brands.

Bottom Line: This diaper rash cream is made with zinc oxide and cornstarch instead of heavy chemicals and talc. And it’s soothing, unlike some other creams.

Final Thoughts

Babies have sensitive skin; that’s nothing new. Neither is diaper rash. By no fault to parents, it sometimes seems that no matter how frequently you change them, their little bum gets a little red and uncomfortable. Diaper cream is the fastest and most soothing solution that can be picked up almost anywhere and used for other skin irritations, too. These creams may be just what you need. Check the ingredients to choose which cream will work best for your baby.