As a parent, it’s inevitable. No matter how often you change your baby’s diaper, no matter how good you wipe, a diaper rash can still occur. And while you have done the best you can to prevent them, when they happen, you can’t help but feel awful for your little one who may become fussy because of the discomfort. When that redness appears on baby's bottom, along with the bumps and lesions if it's a really bad case, what is a new mom or first-time dad to do? Enter, the best diaper rash creams to rescue you and your child’s bum. There are plenty out there on the market that do the trick, but make no mistake: some are better than others.
But if your baby needs relief immediately, take it from me — a mom of two who have had their fair share of diaper rashes — I’ve sampled them all. After trying every diaper cream on the market (and reading countless reviews and getting recommendations from moms and doctors who’ve been there and done that), I’ve created the ultimate list of top diaper rash creams, so your baby can suffer a little bit less and get through this irritating episode as quickly as possible.
Of course, if you're concerned, or that diaper rash on baby is lasting longer than a couple of days, call your pediatrician to have a look for good measure.
✔️ Ingredients: Depending on the type of diaper rash, there are certain ingredients to look for in a diaper cream. For simple diaper rashes, Dr. Pierrette Mimi Poinsett, MD, a pediatrician and consultant for parenting blog Mom Loves Best, says to use a diaper rash cream that contains zinc oxide, vitamin A + D ointment, or petrolatum jelly — or Aquaphor.
✔️ Protection: “These creams provide an occlusive barrier that protects against wetness,” she says.
✔️ No Steroids: “Avoid using creams that contain steroids such as hydrocortisone as this may cause thinning of the skin, especially in the genital area,” Dr. Poinsett advises.
FAQ
How do you know your baby has a diaper rash? According to Dr. Poinsett, “If your baby has redness only, that is a simple diaper rash that may be due to prolonged contact with a wet diaper.” Dr. Poinsett says there are other types of diaper rash that may also require treatment, like candidal diaper rash which also comes with red bumps known as satellite lesions, and bacterial diaper rash (or impetigo) which comes with blistering lesions and pus.
How long do diaper rashes last? Generally, diaper rashes can last 2 to 3 days. If the diaper rash worsens after 3 or 4 days, Dr. Poinsett says the child should be evaluated by a doctor for good measure.
When should you go to the doctor for diaper rash? If the diaper rash doesn't clear up in three days, make an appointment to see your pediatrician. The rash could be caused by a fungus or bacteria, which may require a prescription cream.
When might a doctor prescribe a diaper rash treatment? Accodring to Dr. Poinsett, if it's a candidal diaper rash, a doctor will prescribe an anti-fungal cream, such as nystatin, miconazole, or ketoconazole. “Oral candidiasis also occurs with a candidal diaper rash, and your doctor may also prescribe an oral yeast medication if your child has oral candidiasis or thrush.” It’s important to take a candidal diaper rash seriously because it can worsen if left untreated or if treated with creams that provide an occlusive barrier only. If it’s a bacterial diaper rash, “your doctor may prescribe an antibacterial cream, such as mupirocin or bacitracin. If the rash is severe, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic.” In some cases, the diaper rash may be due to eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis, and a doctor may prescribe a steroid cream, Dr. Poinsett adds.
What shouldn't you put on a diaper rash? Dr. Poinsett cautions to never use cornstarch or talcum powder in the diaper area because that may actually exacerbate the rash.
Is Vaseline also good to use for a diaper rash? Yes, the petroleum jelly creates a barrier of moisture for the baby's skin so it can heal.
Ysolt UsiganYsolt Usigan is a lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years of experience working in digital media.
