Diaper rash ointment is used for soothing flesh that is broken out with irritation. Often caused by wearing a diaper or other friction, mild diaper rash can usually be treated with an effective ointment. Depending on the specific preference and need, from natural creams to medicinal creams, there are many types of ointment that can be used.
Parents who use cloth diapers should avoid skin ointment that can damage the diapers. Diaper rash lotion that includes cod or other types of fish oil can erode cloth diapers. Some manufacturers label their healing ointment to indicate whether or not it is safe for cloth diaper use.
Creams that contain zinc oxide, an anti-bacterial ointment, are very popular for treating diaper rash. These are typically quite strong, and can solve a mild case of irritation within a day or two. Other ingredients that provide a diaper rash cure include nystatin, an anti-fungal agent, beeswax, petroleum jelly, and hydrocortisone, an anti-inflammatory drug. Diaper rash ointment may also contain several natural ingredients intended to help provide soothing relief, such as sandalwood, aloe vera, cucumber, or a variety of other herbal pastes.
Many parents who are concerned about possible longterm side effects of these drugs on their children may wish to use natural alternatives, such as a homemade ointment, to treat diaper rash. These can include vegetable oil or shortening, breast milk, lanolin, corn starch, coconut oil, and olive oil. Caution should be used when using breast milk and cornstarch, as they can aggravate a yeast infection if present. Lanolin can occasionally cause an allergic reaction.
Soaking in a warm mixture of baking soda and water has helped soothe the diaper rash of some babies. Salt water may work as well. Organic diaper rash ointment free of harmful chemicals as well as natural diaper rash ointment are also available over the counter. Other natural ways to avoid or cure diaper rash include keeping the area clean and dry, free of moisture, and free of soaps or ingredients that could irritate the area.
Some medicinal cream ingredients have been linked with causing harm or additional irritation to babies as well as adults. Many caregivers opt to avoid these ingredients, such as fragrances and petroleum-based products. Parents concerned about the leeching of harmful substances into their children may also wish to avoid analgesic ointment in aluminum containers.
Over the counter strength diaper rash creams can be made at home as well. Parents can mix equal parts of petroleum jelly, zinc oxide, and aluminum acetate to create a similar ointment to those available for purchase. These ingredients are available at medical stores.
Caregivers should keep in mind that a diaper rash is often a symptom rather than a disease itself. While diaper rash ointment can help alleviate the pain, frequent or persistent diaper rash may require a physician's care. Pediatricians can also recommend the best way to treat diaper rash for an individual baby's needs.
