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3 Types of diaper creams
Cream
Cream is the most common form of diaper rash medicine. It’s a thick or filmy substance with a water base that rubs on almost like lotion to create a barrier between your baby’s bottom and their diaper while also keeping their skin soft. Because they’re water-based, creams often require preservatives, which means you’re more likely to find allergens in these products than ointments or pastes. Over-the-counter rash cream often includes one main active ingredient: zinc oxide. The zinc oxide is what provides the barrier between your baby and what’s in their diaper as well as what heals the irritation. These creams tend to be stickier than other types of medicine, but they do the trick.Ointment
Diaper ointments are oil-based and often contain petroleum or mineral oils to create a semi-solid liquid. Ointments are popular because they don’t contain water and therefore don’t need preservatives. Generally, ointments improve the efficacy of active drugs, like zinc oxide, so these products tend to be better for more severe rashes.Paste
Diaper paste uses ointment to deliver the active ingredients while adding powder to improve breathability. Pastes are popular because they’re more difficult to rub off, which is helpful when your baby is active, or they don’t need frequent diaper changes.What about lotion?
If you’re trying to moisturize, couldn’t you just use lotion on your baby during a diaper change? The answer is yes, but it’s not recommended, and it shouldn’t be used on your babies’ genitals, which means it’s not effective for treating diaper rash in those areas. Many doctors recommend using a cream, ointment or paste rather than a lotion because lotions are more likely to irritate your baby’s skin further.Prevent or treat: How to choose the right types of diaper cream
Diaper cream can prevent or treat rash depending on the ingredients and form of the product. Because of this, you’ll need to read labels carefully to figure out which creams are best for you at the time. Why? Because while all babies have soft, sensitive skin that makes them prone to rashes, not all babies need to use preventative, medicated cream at every single diaper change. For some little ones, a bit of moisture to provide a barrier is all they need and heavy-duty creams with active ingredients are overkill.Moisturizing barrier creams
These moisturizing creams are not only well-recognized for being good moisturizers, but they are some of the cheapest everyday options available for babies with sensitive skin or mothers who aren’t yet sure what works for their little one.
Medicated creams and ointments
Medicated creams are ideal when you begin to see signs of a rash or for treating full-blown incidents. Here are a few of the popular products used for treating rashes:
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