Image: Momjunction Design Team
The best diaper rash creams help you deal with your baby’s rashes effectively. Diaper rash causes much discomfort and irritation to your baby. Therefore, it is important to take care of your baby’s hygiene to keep them happy in their nappies.
If picking the right diaper rash cream sounds confusing, here is a list of the best ones we have carefully curated for you. These provide good relief against diaper rashes. Read on and lay your hands on some of these tried-and-tested creams.
Top Picks
15 Best Diaper Rash Creams
1. Best For Sensitive Skin: Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment
Bring home the baby healing ointment by Aquaphor — an excellent diaper rash cream with multipurpose usage. It can be used for chaps, minor cuts, and skin dryness. This safe and effective diaper cream is pediatrician-recommended and hypoallergenic, which means it is suitable for babies with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Contains petroleum jelly as the active ingredient
- Forms a protective barrier against the skin
- No paraben-based preservatives
- Free of dyes and added fragrance
- Includes panthenol, a derivative of vitamin B5
- Promotes skin healing faster
Cons
- May have a sticky consistency
- May not absorb quickly
"Besides soothing my baby’s diaper rash, this ointment protects her skin from dryness. The tub-style container makes the application process simple, and its non-sticky formula offers me peace of mind as it doesn’t stain the clothes."
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 41,378 reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Organic: Babyganics Diaper Rash Cream
Give this organic rash cream by Babyganics a try. It is made from organic plant materials. The mommy-approved, all natural cream contains a natural blend of plant-based oils and fats such as cocoa butter, almond oil, jojoba oil, and shea butter. These materials help form a protective barrier on the skin. 15% zinc oxide content relieves from inflamed and sore skin due to diaper rash.
Pros
- Petroleum-free
- Cruelty-free
- Organic ingredients
- Has no phthalates, parabens, sulfates, or mineral oil
- Free of dyes and artificial fragrances
- Irritation-free and comfortable
Cons
- May have a watery consistency
- Coverage may not be enough
"This cream has proven to shield my little one from dampness, preventing the diaper rashes from worsening. Though it does not yield instant results, its plant-based ingredients give the assurance of skin safety."
3. Best Pediatrician-Tested Formula: Burt’s Bee Baby Diaper Ointment
Protect your baby’s skin from diaper rashes, irritation, and redness with this mom-tested Burt’s Bees diaper ointment. This baby-friendly and calming ointment is enriched with vitamin E and almond oil to moisturize and soothe the baby’s skin. It is made from nut and plant oils, which help heal a diaper rash gently. Its 40% zinc oxide content reduces the chances of diaper rashes while also hastening the healing process of existing diaper rashes.
Pros
- 100% natural and gentle formulation
- Plant-based ingredients
- Pediatrician-tested formula
- Hypoallergenic and ideal for babies with sensitive skin
- Free of parabens, phthalates, SLS, and petrolatum (petroleum jelly)
Cons
- Cream may be dense
- May have a strong smell of the ingredients
"I have been using this cream on my baby for the past two days, and the reduction in the redness and size of the rash is pretty evident. It's a bit too thick for my liking, but I give it a thumbs up for its rash-fighting and skin-hydrating properties."
| Product Image | Best For Sensitive Skin  | Best Organic  | Best Fragrance-Free  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Name | Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment | Babyganics Diaper Rash Cream | Aquaphor Baby Diaper Rash Paste |
| Free Of | Parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, artificial fragrance, and dyes | Parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, artificial fragrance, and dyes | Parabens, fragrance, and talc |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Item Form | Semi-solid | Semi-solid | Paste |
| Dimensions3.8 x 3.8 x 3.6in5.5 x 8.75 x 1.88in5.2 x 2.17 x 6.18in | |||
| Amazon Ratings4.94.34.7 | |||
| Amazon Reviews45,8021048,073 | |||
| Buy Now | Check Now | Check Now | Check Now |
4. Best For Daily Use: Desitin Maximum Strength Baby Diaper Rash Cream
Creams with thick texture offer a great protective shield on the skin and prevent rashes, and so does the Desitin Maximum Strength diaper rash cream trusted by moms and dads. This soothing cream has a mix of petroleum jelly and glycerin that helps the skin retain its moisture for a longer duration. Its 40% zinc oxide content repairs skin and prevents further formation of diaper rash.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic ointment
- Offerslong-lasting protection
- Soothing ingredients
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes
- Dermatologist- and pediatrician-tested
- Clinically proven to protect baby’s skin for 12 hours
- Safe enough for daily use
Cons
- May have a slightly medicated smell
- May feel sticky
"Thanks to its zinc formulation, my little one’s severe diaper rash is on its way to getting healed. It has a distinct scent, but my baby got used to it after a couple of applications."
Do remember5. Best For Rash Minimizing And Reduction: Weleda Diaper Care Cream
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 7,057 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
Give this water-based diaper cream by Weleda, a trusted choice among parents, a try. It blends with natural organic plant oils that are mild and gentle on the skin. The zinc oxide cream protects against the moisture in the diaper region and minimizes the risk of a rash.
Pros
- Free of artificial fragrances and dyes
- Has no mineral oil-based compounds and preservatives
- Dermatologist-tested
- Safe for infants with sensitive skin
- Soothes your baby’s skin
- UEBT-certified ingredients
Cons
- May have a thin consistency
- May not be suitable for severe rash
"This gentle and natural cream suits my baby’s eczema-prone skin well. Apart from soothing her irritated skin, it has also kept it from dryness with its moisturizing ingredients."
6. Best For Bacteria And Fungi Protection: Boudreaux’s Butt Paste Diaper Rash Ointment
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 9,983 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
Give your baby quick and noticeable relief from diaper rash discomfort with the Boudreaux’s Butt Paste diaper rash cream. The cream contains 40% zinc oxide that heals any diaper rash and soothes irritation. This quick-relief cream also contains plant oils and petroleum jelly, which help provide optimum protection to the skin.
Pros
- Provides fast-acting relief
- Works immediately on contact with the rash
- Helps prevent wetness from affecting the deeper layers of skin
- Protects baby’s skin from bacteria and fungi
- Free of preservatives, dyes, parabens, and talc
- Clinically-tested formula
Cons
- May have a slightly overpowering medicated smell
- May not work for severe diaper rash
"With this option, I finally found a cream that provides rapid rash relief overnight minus the strong scent. It also has a buttery smooth consistency, which lets me spread it without hurting my baby."
7. Best For Allergy-Prone Skin: California Baby Calming Diaper Rash Ointment
Here is a calming diaper rash ointment by the trusted brand California Baby. The cream is made from naturally-derived oils and plant fats and is free of added preservatives. The formula is specially made for infants with delicate and sensitive skin. It makes the cream ideal for babies with allergy-prone skin.
Pros
- Contains zinc oxide to protect the skin from further damage
- Heals inflammation
- Has no raw mineral oils
- Free of petroleum-based products
- Soothes sensitive skin
Cons
- May have a grainy consistency
- Once opened, the cream may dry quickly
"I am amazed by its fast-acting formula. Thankfully, it also smells good. I’ve also noticed that a little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective choice."
8. Best Alcohol-Free: Triple Paste Diaper Rash Cream For Baby
Triple Paste diaper rash cream is formulated for a baby’s delicate skin. This mommy-approved and pediatrician-tested ointment soothes the skin and prevents diaper rashes. Free of alcohol, fragrances, and parabens, this gentle diaper cream is safe and suitable for daily use.
Pros
- Thick consistency to form a protective barrier
- Suitable for even the most sensitive skin types
- Containsactive ingredients that soothe and treat irritated skin
- Designed for delicate skin
- Fragrance-free cream
- Can be safely used with clothes and diapers
- Pediatrician-recommended hypoallergenic formula
Cons
- Some parents may not like the thick consistency
- Some may not like the smell
"Apart from soothing my munchkin’s rash gently, it also keeps irritation at bay and hasn’t caused my little one any skin allergies. I like that it adheres well during diaper changes."
9. Best Fast-Acting: Balmex Diaper Rash Cream
This diaper rash relief cream by Balmex is the perfect solution trusted by parents for quick and effective relief of diaper rashes. The fast-acting baby-friendly cream is formulated to reduce irritation and redness in a single use. With its unique blend of 11% zinc oxide, which is a skin protectant, and botanicals, it not only soothes diaper rash but also neutralizes irritants that cause it.
Pros
- Easy-to-apply ointment
- Rich and creamy formula
- Provides fast-acting relief
- Creates a moisture barrier and protects against chafing
- Free of nasties
- Suitable for everyday use
- Dermatologist-tested and hypoallergenic
Cons
- Smell may not be pleasant for some
- Some may not like the thick consistency
10. Best For Skin Protection: Honest Diaper Rash Cream
Creams with hypoallergenic formula are always safe for sensitive skin, and so is this Honest diaper rash cream. It is made entirely of plant-based ingredients and boasts various skin protectants. The natural oils and zinc oxide in the cream form a protective barrier on the skin and prevent the formation of any further diaper rashes.
Pros
- NSF-certified
- Raw materials used are plant-based and organic
- Natural ingredients
- No petroleum or raw mineral oil products
- Free of preservatives, parabens, and synthetic fragrances
- Soothes irritated skin
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- Consistency may feel runny
- May not offer sufficient coverage
"This diaper rash cream is pretty effective for reducing stubborn rashes, and I found its non-toxic, natural formula great for sensitive skin. However, I do think the formula texture changes over time. Despite that, I would recommend it for its overall performance."
Quick tip[ Read : Honest Company Diaper Rash Cream Review ]
11. Best For Chapped Skin: A+D Original Diaper Rash Ointment
The mommy-approved diaper rash ointment by A+D Original is a petroleum jelly-based formula that prevents irritation and forms a protective layer on the skin. It contains natural cod liver oil rich in vitamins A and D that provide additional benefits to the baby. With the goodness of these baby-friendly and active ingredients, this diaper rash product works as an excellent barrier cream.
Pros
- Pediatrician-recommended cream
- Free of dyes, parabens, and phthalates
- Effective against chapped, chafed, or cracked skin
- Ointment is safe for daily use
- Can be applied after every diaper change
Cons
- May have an overpowering smell
- May have a watery consistency in hot climates
"Initially, I feared that it would be greasy, but I am relieved to note that the cream is not sticky. I’ve also noticed that it works quickly to reduce irritation."
12. Best For Newborns: Mustela 1.2.3. Diaper Rash Cream
Protect your little one from new diaper rashes and treat the existing ones with the safe and effective Mustela 1.2.3. diaper rash cream. This preventive cream relieves and treats rashes. It is a blend of 98% of natural-origin ingredients, making it baby-friendly.
Pros
- NEA-approved
- Hypoallergenic formula with no added fragrance
- Formulated for sensitive skin
- Safe to use on newborns
- Ideal for applying at night time
Cons
- May not be thick enough
- May not protect from wet diapers
13. Best Multipurpose: Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm
This EWG-verified and certified-organic ointment helps soothe dry skin, cracked hands and irritated diaper rashes. Formulated with a blend of organic tea tree oil, lavender oil, and herbs like St. John’s Wort, plantain, chickweed, and calendula, this mom’s choice healing balm works gently yet effectively on the baby’s irritated skin.
Pros
- Multipurpose formula
- Pediatrician-approved and dermatologically tested.
- Safe for babies and pregnant and breastfeeding women
- Paraben-free
- Moisturizing balm, protects the skin against wetness and chaffing
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May not be effective on severe diaper rash
- May be slightly messy
"I chose this option because of its organic ingredients. I find it creamy but not greasy, making it easy to apply and remove. It has made wearing diapers a more pleasant experience for my little one."
14. Best Rapid Relief From Rashes: Cetaphil Baby Diaper Cream
Provide your baby with instant relief from diaper dermatitis with this diaper cream by the trusted brand Cetaphil. The cream contains organic calendula, which provides relief from existing diaper rash and minimizes risk of rashes. It contains zinc oxide, which helps in rapid relief from diaper rash. The added vitamins B5 and E help nourish the skin.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested formula
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of dyes and mineral oils
- Safe for babies with delicate skin
- Free of paraben-based preservatives
Cons
- May have an oily consistency
- May stain clothes
"This ointment is creamy smooth, making it easy to apply and spread, and offers soothing relief to my child's skin. Its fragrance is not my favorite, but I find no problem, as it doesn’t seem to bother my munchkin’s nose."
[ Read : Cetaphil Baby Diaper Cream Review ]
15. Best Easy-To-Use: Boogie Bottoms No-Rub Baby Diaper Rash Cream Spray
This Baby Diaper Rash Cream Spray is a revolutionary touchless solution for sensitive skin. The formula comes in a convenient spray form, eliminating any messy application. It helps prevent diaper rash while sealing out wetness to protect against sensitive skin chafing. The touchless spray also reduces the potential for cross-contamination and produces less waste than traditional diaper rash cream tubes or jars. It contains 25% zinc oxide and is pediatrician-tested.
Pros
- Portable and easy to use on the go
- Comes with a safety lock
- Provides excellent surface area coverage
- Gentle, sensitive skin cream
- Safe for all ages
- Free of fragrances, parabens, dyes, or talc
Cons
- Some may not find the spray form convenient
- Nozzle might not be durable
What Causes Diaper Rash?
Diaper rash is any rash that occurs within the area covered by diapers, which includes the groin, buttocks, and parts of the inner thighs. Since diapers hold the excretions, several causes can contribute to a diaper rash. The following are the common reasons behind diaper rash in babies (1):
- Irritation: Stool and urine can combine to form ammonia, which can lead to a diaper rash.
- Bacteria: Stool contains a lot of bacteria. Leaving a soiled diaper for long can cause bacteria to invade the upper layers of skin and cause rashes. Staphylococcus is a common bacterium that causes diaper rashes in babies.
- Fungi: The moist environment within the diaper can be a perfect place for fungi to multiply. A common fungus to affect diaper area is yeast, also called candida.
- Diarrheal rash: Frequent excretion may cause the skin around the anal opening to get irritated and inflamed.
- Autoimmune rash: Conditions like psoriasis and eczema can also result in outbreaks in the diaper region. However, the symptoms will be a lot different to diaper rashes caused by infection or irritation.
The diaper rash cream you pick must be based on what is causing the rash.
[ Read : Chicco Nappy Cream Uses ]
How To Choose A Diaper Rash Cream?
Consider the following factors and criteria when picking a diaper rash cream:
- Zinc oxide: Zinc oxide is a common ingredient of many diaper rash creams. The compound forms a protective layer on the skin and prevents fecal bacteria, ammonia from causing rashes on the skin. If you want a diaper rash cream for long-lasting protection of your baby’s diaper area, then a diaper rash cream with zinc oxide will work great. Opt for creams with a higher percentage of zinc oxide (around 10-40%) as they tend to provide better protection and promote faster healing.
- Petroleum: Petroleum jelly forms a protective barrier on the skin. Look for words like petrolatum, soft paraffin or just petroleum jelly on the ingredient list of diaper cream to determine if it has the compound in it.
- Oils: Many manufacturers use plant oils or fish oils as an alternative to petroleum jelly to moisturize the skin. These oils naturally contain vitamins that further nourish the baby’s skin and make the skin soft.
- Moisture barrier: Look for a diaper rash cream that not only has soothing ingredients but also forms a protective moisture barrier on the skin. This barrier helps prevent contact with urine and feces, which can worsen irritation and prolong the healing process.
, a beauty and skincare specialist, says, “Prioritize creams with skin-friendly ingredients. They should be gentle and free of fragrances, dyes, parabens, and harsh chemicals that can irritate the baby’s sensitive skin. Instead, opt for creams with natural ingredients that have soothing and protective properties.”
[ Read : Curatio B4 Nappi Cream Review ]
Tips For Diaper Rash Cream Usage
- Apply cream in a thick layer: Manufacturers and medical experts suggest that you should apply the diaper rash cream in thick layers for optimum protection (2). Clean the baby’s bottom, pat dry with a towel, and let it air dry for a while before applying the cream. Diaper cream brushes can also be used to apply the cream on the baby’s bottom with minimal mess.
- Try no diaper time: Let babies spend time without a diaper on to get their bottoms some air. Going without diapers for a few hours each day helps get rid of moisture, which causes a diaper rash. You can also consider using cloth diapers, which are breathable when compared to disposable diapers.
- Consult a doctor for severe diaper rash: If a diaper rash is severe or oozes white/clear liquid, then consult your doctor first. It could be a sign of severe fungal infection for which your baby will need medicated antifungal creams instead of a standard diaper rash ointment. Also, if diaper rash continues for more than three days after application of a regular diaper rash cream, then consult a pediatrician.
[ Read : Sebamed Baby Rash Cream Benefits / Uses ]
Diaper rash creams are useful when you have an infant who is still dependent on diapers. For the child’s safety, always read the instructions on the packaging of the diaper cream before usage. To ensure the baby’s hygiene, take a considerate amount of time without diapers, and use diaper cream are probably all that your baby needs to keep diaper rash away.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get rid of diaper rash?
Usually, it takes two to three days to get rid of a diaper rash. If the rash gets worse or doesn’t go away, or if the baby has a fever, it is recommended to see a doctor immediately (1).
2. Should I use diaper cream at every diaper change?
If your baby has sensitive skin and is prone to frequent diaper rashes, applying diaper cream after each diaper change may help prevent diaper rashes (2).
3. Is cream or ointment better for diaper rash?
Diaper rash creams are thick and are a good choice for mild diaper rashes. However, if the rash is acute, a medically prescribed diaper rash ointment is a better choice. Generally, ointments are oily in consistency and create a moisture-trapping barrier for a longer time than creams. Creams contain less oils than ointments.
4. Should I wipe off excess diaper rash cream?
Diaper rash cream should be applied in a thick layer and you don’t need to wipe off the excess. When changing the diaper, wipe away the stool from the skin, if that leaves a layer of diaper cream, leave it and top it up with a fresh layer of diaper cream (3).
5. Can I use baby wipes for diaper rash?
Baby wipes may contain fragrances, alcohol, and chemicals that may further irritate the delicate skin and sometimes aggravate the rash. Instead, use a soft washcloth and warm water to clean the area, or choose wipes that are free of fragrances and alcohol (2).
6. What treats diaper rashes quickly?
Here’s what you can do to treat diaper rashes quickly:
- Choose a diaper rash cream that has zinc oxide and petrolatum,
- Apply the rash cream in thick layers
- Clean the skin gently between changes
- Allow diaper-free time as much as possible
- Use loose and breathable diapers
- Let the skin dry completely before putting on the diaper
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is a keen product writer specializing in baby, nursing, and pregnancy products. Utilizing her experience as a mother, she has searched numerous websites to bring you this list of the best diaper rash creams for your baby. The creams listed here are gentle on the skin and offer certain healing properties. Keeping your safety concerns in mind, she has provided a detailed description of each one and also added a buying guide section for your convenience.
The Bottom Line
If diaper rashes leave your baby irritated and annoyed, it may be time to swap your regular baby creams with the best diaper rash creams. These are formulated for your baby’s gentle skin and include nourishing ingredients that soothe and relieve rashes. When choosing the best cream for your little one, ensure it has ingredients such as petroleum jelly, zinc oxide, and plant oils or fish oils that protect the skin from bacteria while hydrating it. Look for diaper rash products recommended by dermatologists or pediatricians, like the Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment. We also recommend the A+D Original Diaper Rash Ointment, which is free of harsh chemicals, and the Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm made of natural and organic ingredients.
Infographic: Tips For Diaper Rash Cream Usage
Ignoring diaper rash can, at times, lead to yeast infection or severe allergy. Therefore, always consider applying a diaper rash cream formulated with safe ingredients to prevent the situation from aggravating. So, go through the following infographic to learn more about the aspects to keep in mind when using a diaper cream to ensure a safe experience.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Common Diaper Rashes & Treatments
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Diaper-Rash.aspx?_ga=2.260465352.436063759.1669969680-682941669.1669031266&_gl=1*1mqv965*_ga*NjgyOTQxNjY5LjE2NjkwMzEyNjY.*_ga_FD9D3XZVQQ*MTY2OTk3Mjk4NS4zLjEuMTY2OTk3MzAxOS4wLjAuMA.. - Diaper Rash
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/diaper-rash.html#:~:text=Diaper%20rash%20usually%20goes%20away - Diaper Rash
https://pediatricassociatesnh.com/diaper-rash/#:~:text=If%20diaper%20cream%20was%20applied
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