Babies naturally have sensitive skin, and a variety of environmental and hereditary factors can contribute to minor skin irritations. One of the most common of these skin irritations is diaper rash. A diaper rash may spur from moist conditions, chaffing or sensitivity to chemicals, and rashes look different depending on their cause.  When shopping for baby shampoo, parents typically reach for tear-free shampoo. However, the choice of diaper ointment isn’t always so clear: jelly or zinc?

Diaper ointment with petroleum jelly is generally used to protect a baby’s bottom from moisture. A liberal layer of petroleum jelly after each diaper change will lock out moisture and act as a barrier between baby’s skin and the diaper.  Other uses for jelly include dabbing a little on baby’s nostrils to prevent irritation from a runny nose and applying a little to baby’s cheeks to prevent chapping on windy days.

Diaper ointment with zinc oxide is great for treating and preventing most forms of diaper rash. The thick creamy ointment is easy to apply and soothes and protects baby’s skin.

The best way to prevent diaper rash is to keep the skin dry.  Change baby’s diaper frequently and use dustless powder wipes to dry baby’s bottom after cleaning her.  Then, apply zinc oxide or petroleum jelly to create that moisture barrier.

Treating a diaper rash is another story.

Even the most seasoned parents will encounter a round of diaper rash. The appearance of a diaper rash does not mean that you, as the parent, have done anything wrong. A baby without a fever or blisters can be treated with over-the-counter diaper cream or anti-fungal cream, depending on the cause. Generally, the recommended treatment for a diaper rash is to rinse the affected area with water (a quick bath is best if possible) and wipe with a cotton ball, pat the area dry or allow to air dry and then apply a diaper rash cream.  Diaper wipes can scratch and sting the tender area; so, avoid using those if possible.