Diaper rash is a common condition in babies and there is nothing to be alarmed about. As parents, we naturally worry if we see our precious little one developing a rash. But fret not, this problem can be easily avoided with proper care and can be treated with a diaper rash cream.
And make things easy for you, we’ve created a comprehensive guide on how you can prevent and treat diaper rash at home and the best diaper cream that you should buy for your baby’s cute buttocks.
Image courtesy: Stock image
Common Causes Of Diaper Rash
Before we get into the best diaper cream to buy for your little tot, it’s always better to know more about what causes the rashes in the first place so that we can detect them earlier. Let’s look into the common causes of diaper rashes and their symptoms as well as how you can treat your baby’s delicate skin.
There are multiple reasons for babies get rashes including wet diapers, chafed skin due to the diaper, reaction to a new nappy, and more.
- Irritation from wet diapers – Babies have sensitive skin and the acids found in urine or stools can irritate the skin of your precious infant if it is exposed to them for long periods of time. As such, one of the main reasons for diaper rash is due to infrequent changing of a baby’s diaper.
- Diapers that chafe or rub against your baby – If your little one’s diapers are ill-fitting, it could rub against the skin and cause chafing. The constant friction on your baby’s skin can eventually lead to a diaper rash. As such, always ensure that you choose diapers that are fitting and comfortable for your baby.
- Reaction to a new product – Have you started using a new nappy? This may be causing your infant’s sensitive skin to flare up. Baby’s are known to react very differently to products such as baby wipes, diapers, soap or even detergent. As such, always ensure that you are using tried and tested products.
- Changes in diet – Changes in your baby’s diet (introduction to solids or a new food) might cause them to poop more often, or change the content of their stools, which can lead to diaper rash. A breastfed baby may also develop diaper rash as a reaction to something the mother has consumed that passed through the breastmilk.
- Sensitive skin – If your little one has any skin conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis), she is more likely to develop diaper rash.
- Hot and humid weather – Singapore’s hot humid weather will probably make your baby sweat and also create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria to grow. If his diaper area gets prolonged exposure to sweat, urine, and with some heat thrown in, a diaper rash may be inevitable.
- Bacterial or fungal infection – Your little one’s bum and upper thighs are usually covered by a diaper, which makes the area warm and moist – the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast to grow.
- Antibiotics – Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria, but unfortunately they can be the good kind as well as the bad! If your baby takes antibiotics (or it is passed onto her through breastmilk) it can affect the good bacteria that normally prevents yeast growth, thus leading to a diaper rash caused by yeast infection.
Finding the right diaper rash cream depends on what exactly your baby needs
Symptoms Of Diaper Rash
While it may not be that tough to detect diaper rash, some rashes may appear late or look like a mosquito bite. Either way, always look out for the following symptoms when changing your baby’s diapers:
- Mild diaper rash – Irritated, pink skin that is also dry.
- Severe diaper rash – Areas of red skin that in some cases may appear raw or even bleed.
- Allergic reaction to a new product – Clues that diaper rash on your baby is due to the introduction of a new product is a rash that occurs every time you use a new product, and only in areas where the product has been applied.
- Yeast or bacteria infection – Red or pink patches of skin with sharp edges. The rash may include little bumps or pimples.
- Unusual reactions from your baby – Take note of your baby’s actions. If they cry or are fussier than usual during diaper changes, they may be suffering from the case of diaper rash.
Now that you know what causes a diaper rash and what to look out for in your baby, what are the best products that can help treat your baby?
Treatment For Diaper Rash
There are many diaper rash creams on the market, and choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially since it concerns the comfort and health of your little one. When choosing the best diaper cream, our advice would be to consider the following factors:
- Severity of rash – The most common ingredient in most treatment creams is Zinc Oxide. However, zinc oxide may not be effective if the rash is too severe.
- Type of rash. Diaper rash may be due to a yeast or bacterial infection, and you will need to choose a yeast diaper rash treatment instead.
- Skin sensitivity. If your baby has eczema make sure that the cream you plan to use is safe for their sensitive skin.
Whether your baby has a mild irritation or a full-blown diaper rash that’s causing angry raised patches, a diaper rash cream can be an instant solution. Here are our top picks for the best diaper rash cream that can suit your baby’s needs.
Best Diaper Rash Creams of 2021
Ceradan Diaper Cream Review
What we love about Ceradan Diaper Cream
When your baby has diaper rash, it is important to treat the skin condition with a diaper rash cream that aids in the rebuilding of a healthy skin barrier. Our top pick is Ceradan Diaper Cream, which helps reinforce a healthy skin protective barrier. In an IQVIA survey (2018), Ceradan is top of mind brand among Dermatologists in Singapore.
With its unique triple protective actions, it helps to soothe, protect and prevent diaper rash by rebuilding the skin’s protective barrier.
This product is created for babies with eczema and dry skin, and its formula is known to be extra gentle on such skin types. As such, it is suitable for all skin types and is also why it is the first recommendation on our list. No matter your baby’s skin type, you can be rest assured that they are getting the best product.
Features
- Rebuild protective skin barrier. Ceradan uses a ceramide-dominant 3:1:1 (ceramide, cholesterol, free fatty acids) ratio which is critical in rebuilding and maintaining a healthy skin barrier
- Controls yeast growth. Octenedine , an antimicrobial to control any yeast growth that may occur.
- Seals out wetness. Ceradan Diaper cream includes zinc oxide, which helps to seal out wetness between your baby’s skin and the diaper, thus reducing the chance of further development of rashes. It also has mild anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, regenerative, and moisturizing effects.
- All age groups. Newborn onwards.
It is best to apply Ceradan Diaper Cream after each diaper change. To make sure that the diaper area is clean, wash your baby’s bottom with a non-soap cleanser like Ceradan Gentle Cleanser / Ceradan Moisturizing Wash before applying the nappy cream
California Baby Diaper Rash Cream Review
What we love about California Baby Diaper Rash Cream
This simple, yet ultra-rich diaper ointment is free of common allergens and irritants, so it’s perfect for dry, sensitive, allergy-prone skin. This formula does not contain any preservatives, so it is less likely to even irritate the most sensitive skin. It also contains Vitamin-grade Zinc Oxide that treats and prevents diaper rash while purified Lanolin leaves a moisture barrier on the skin. Coconut oil and liquorice are also added to help soothe sore bottoms.
Features
- 100% bio-based formula, does not contain any preservatives
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Cloth-diaper safe
Sudocrem Review
What we love about Sudocrem
If you notice that your baby has developed deep red raised bumps on the diaper area and cries in pain when peeing or pooping, it is probably a severe diaper rash.
Sudocrem is a mild antiseptic cream that relieves nappy rash and has a water-repellent base which acts as a protective barrier to stop urine and poop from irritating your baby’s skin.
Although it is recommended to apply a thin layer to the affected area, if your little one is suffering from a severe case of diaper rash. But some mothers find that using a liberal amount of Sudocrem on their baby’s irritated skin can help clear it up in no time.
However, as the cream is waxy and oily, it might also prevent airflow to your baby’s diaper area, and as such, we recommend that you also ensure that you are properly airing the affected areas.
Features
- Seals out wetness. Contains 15.5 percent zinc oxide, which reduces fluid loss from the skin
- Safe for sensitive skin. Contains hypoallergenic lanolin, which soothes and repairs skin. Safe for babies with eczema.
Mama’s Choice Baby Diaper Cream Review
What we love about Mama’s Choice Baby Diaper Cream
Mama’s Choice Baby Diaper Cream is perfect for parents who are particular about the ingredients used in their baby’s products. As a brand that highlights the importance of using ingredients that are safe, halal, and natural, you don’t need to worry about applying anything harmful on your baby’s skin.
Mama’s Choice Baby Diaper Cream formula uses carefully selected natural ingredients, including Centella Asiatica which is known to help relieve rash and redness, Rosemary Extract provides skin protection from minor irritation and Sweet Almond that nourishes and moisturizes the skin. Together, this blend of natural ingredients ensures your baby’s skin is safe and protected from a variety of rashes like heat rash, diaper rash, milk rash, and other skin irritations.
This diaper rash cream is specially formulated for newborns and those with sensitive skin, so you can ease your worries about further aggravating your baby’s rashes. While it works great at relieving rashes, it also helps to moisturize your baby’s skin.
Mama’s Choice Diaper Cream can also be used as a preventive measure when applied to areas prone to rashes.
Features:
- Fast-acting formula. It works fast to relieve and soothe rashes and redness with a few applications.
- Natural ingredients. It uses a combination of natural ingredients to relieve rashes, protect the baby’s skin from irritation, and moisturize the skin.
- No harmful chemicals. This diaper rash cream does not contain parabens, alcohol, mineral oil, or petroleum.
- Designed and lab-tested in Singapore. It’s tested to be safe for babies’ sensitive skin as well as for effectiveness.
Desitin Daily Defense Cream Review
What we love about Desitin Daily Defense Cream
Desitin offers a rapid relief cream which helps to soothe and relieve your baby’s diaper rash discomfort and even promises to provide relief from the first use. A clinical study showed that 90 percent of babies with diaper rash had noticeable relief within 12 hours after using this dermatologist-tested creamy formula.
Features:
- Rapid relief. Clinically proven to provide relief within 12 hours for 90% of babies
- Allergy relief. Hypoallergenic and pediatrician tested.
Lucas Papaw Ointment Review
What we love about Lucas’ Papaw Ointment
Touted as a staple item in medicine cabinets across most households in Australia, this soothing ointment is suitable for all ages. Created by botanist and surgeon, Dr. T. P. Lucas, who discovered the healing properties of the papaw tree, this diaper rash cream has been around for over 100 years!
This ointment can also be used to treat sunburn, insect bites, chafing, cuts, minor open wounds, and even offers temporary relief from dermatitis and eczema.
Features:
- Carica Papaya. Fresh Australian Brisbane papaya is fermented and used as the main ingredient due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties
- Smooth texture and feel. The petroleum jelly and wax base gives smooth application that is easy to wipe off.
Bepanthen Ointment Review
What we love about Bepanthen Ointment
Parents of infants with sensitive skin will know how stressful it can be to find the right cream that is gentle yet effective enough to help treat any flare-ups. But Bepanthen contains no fragrance, preservatives, colours or antiseptics and is gentle enough to be used at every diaper change and even on the highly sensitive skin of premature babies.
Bepanthen has also won the Parent’s choice awards 3 years in a row (2018 – 2020) in Malaysia.
Features:
- Pro-Vitamin B5. That aids in helping the skin recover while keeping it soft, smooth, and moisturised
- Protective barrier. Forms a transparent barrier that protects against exposure to irritants and reduces chafing
Cavilon Durable Barrier Cream Review
What we love about Cavilon Durable Barrier Cream
For those who need a diaper rash cream that can last throughout the day without having to be reapplied, you can try this unique hypoallergenic barrier cream by 3M. It does not easily get transferred onto diapers or clothing. This cream is also recommended by hospitals in Singapore for elderly patients who suffer from incontinence, or can be used to moisturise severely dry skin.
Cavilon is also available as a spray-on bottle, which is easier and less messy to use.
Features:
- Long lasting. Developed by 3M to be more concentrated than other creams and allows for less frequent application with lower amount of product used each time
Drapolene Cream Review
What we love about Drapolene Cream
If you find that your baby’s bottom is slightly red and the skin appears to be mildly irritated, a gentle diaper rash cream should help. The combination of ingredients in Drapolene Cream will help cool and soothe the soreness on your baby’s bum, while preventing any potential infections.
We love that Drapolene is affordable and easily available in most major supermarkets and children’s department stores across Singapore.
Features:
- Antiseptic properties. Contains Benzalkonium Chloride that has antiseptic properties to prevent infection due to diaper rash.
- Paraben and fragrance-free. Does not have allergy-causing chemicals that are present in artificial fragrances
Earth Mama Baby Organic Diaper Balm Review
What we love about Earth Mama Baby Organic Diaper Balm
Parents who prefer using a chemical-free and vegan remedy for their little one’s delicate skin will love this effective bottom balm. The organic ingredients include olive oil, shea butter, candelilla wax, jojoba oil, tea tree, lavender flower oil, calendula flower extract, St. John’s wort flower extract, chickweed extract, plantain extract and myrrh.
However, as this ointment does not contain any stabilising chemicals, as such, the consistency will change after a while and little specks or crystals may start to form (although it’s still safe to use).
Features:
- Clinically proven. Dermatologist-tested and clinically-tested for irritation
- EWG Verified. The EWG verification is given to products that have been tested for harmful chemicals. Earth Mama Baby Bottom Balm has received the lowest hazard rating possible.
- 100% organic.
Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream 123 Review
What we love about Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream 123
The formula used in this cream is gentle enough to be used for newborns and even babies who are just discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). If you want to prevent a rash on your little one’s bottom, just apply this fragrance-free cream with each diaper change. We find that Mustela is easy to apply and wash off, and specially formulated to minimise any allergic reactions.
Features:
- Clinically tested. Clinically proven to improve symptoms in 80% of babies, and a 80% reduction in diaper rash relapse
- 98% natural ingredients. Contains Avocado Perseose, Alcacea Oxeoline, Sunflower oil distillate and Zinc oxide. Contains 0% preservatives and fragrance.
Best Diaper Rash Cream Options: Price Comparison
| Brand |
Pack size |
Total grams (g) |
Price ($) |
Price / gram ($) |
| Ceradan Diaper Cream |
50g tube |
50 |
14.8 |
0.30 |
|
California Baby Diaper Rash Cream
|
82g tube |
164 |
39.79 |
0.24 |
Sudocrem
|
3 pack – 125g |
375 |
23.7 |
0.06 |
| 250g tub |
250 |
13.5 |
0.05 |
Mama’s Choice Diaper Cream
|
50g |
50 |
14.90 |
0.29 |
Desitin Daily Defense Cream
|
566g (20oz) |
566 |
11.48 |
0.02 |
| 1417g (40oz) |
1417 |
11.29 |
0.01 |
Lucas Papaw Ointment
|
15g |
15 |
7.5 |
0.50 |
| 25g |
25 |
9.9 |
0.40 |
| 75g |
75 |
19.9 |
0.27 |
| 200g |
200 |
16.5 |
0.08 |
Bepanthen Ointment
|
30g tube |
30 |
6.55 |
0.22 |
| 100g tube |
100 |
10.9 |
0.11 |
| Cavilon Durable Barrier Cream |
92g tube |
92 |
13.1 |
0.14 |
| Drapolene Cream |
55g tube |
55 |
6.9 |
0.13 |
Earth Mama Baby Organic Diaper Balm
|
30ml tub |
30 |
16.5 |
0.55 |
| 60ml tub |
60 |
22.9 |
0.38 |
| Mustela Vitamin Barrier Cream 123 |
100ml tube |
100 |
11.81 |
0.12 |
Editor’s Note: Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication. However, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
Natural Remedies For Diaper Rash
Using a diaper cream doesn’t mean you cannot still use home remedies. Your soothing touch and gentle care is always an added bonus and if you’re keen to try some, we suggest the following.
Coconut oil
Due to the anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties of coconut oil, it can be used directly on your baby’s diaper area. It helps to soothe and heal any skin flare-ups. Just ensure that your baby’s bum is clean and completely dry before applying a thin layer to help prevent diaper rash.
Keep your baby’s diaper area clean and dry to prevent rashes and use a good diaper rash cream if needed
Baking soda
Just a few teaspoons of baking soda in your baby’s bath water should help to soothe his sore skin. It will also help restore the pH balance in his diaper area that has become inflamed due to the acidity from urine and faeces.
Cornstarch
Instead of using baby powder, sprinkle some cornstarch onto your little one’s bum to absorb moisture and keep the skin dry. This will also help to reduce diaper friction, which is one of the causes of diaper rash.
Breastmilk
You’d be surprised to know just how many wonderful uses there are for breastmilk and that it has amazing healing properties. Rub some of this liquid gold onto your baby’s (clean) bum and let it air-dry before putting on a fresh new diaper.
Aloe vera gel
This natural remedy is widely used to treat burns and other minor skin irritations due to its active compounds that has been said to reduce pain and inflammation. You can either use store-bought pure aloe vera, or extract it from the plant by cutting and then scooping it out from a mature leaf.
Although it is common for babies to get diaper rash and it rarely requires a trip to the hospital, if you have followed all the suggested steps but the symptoms still persist or get worse, it’s best to seek professional medical advice and get your little one checked out.
If your baby’s diaper rash gets worse or does not clear up in 7 days, you should bring her to see a doctor
If you do notice any of the following conditions developing, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately:
- No improvement within 4-7 days even after trying all home treatments
- The diaper rash is actually getting worse or is spreading to other parts of your baby’s body
- The rash may actually be due to an allergy
- You suspect there is a bacterial infection and notice pus or yellowish crusting, which could actually be impetigo (a highly contagious skin infection that requires antibiotics)
- Your baby appears to be in severe pain
- You are not sure what is the exact cause of the diaper rash
- Your baby also has diarrhoea which has gone on for over 48 hours
- The rash has spread rapidly and your baby has developed a fever
Tips To Prevent Diaper Rash
At the end of the day, “prevention is better than cure." And no parent wants to see their child in pain or discomfort. So just follow these simple steps to ensure your baby’s bum is free from diaper rash:
- Keep the diaper area clean and dry
- Let your baby go diaper-free for a few minutes every day so his skin can breathe
- Do not use plastic pants or diaper covers as they trap in moisture
- Use mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water for your baby’s bath time
- Always change your little one’s diaper as soon as it’s soiled
- Apply a good diaper rash cream daily as a precaution
- Gently pat your baby’s bottom dry with a towel after bath time instead of rubbing, which might irritate or break the skin
- Make sure your baby’s diapers or clothing is not too tight in order to avoid friction
- Avoid using scented baby wet wipes which may cause irritation
With all this information, we are sure you’ll be able to take great care of your little one and relieve him of the discomfort that a diaper rash can cause.
Which diaper rash cream do you use for your baby? Are there any other creams or ointments you’d like to recommend to other parents? Have you tried any other natural remedies? Tell us by leaving a comment below.
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