Battle of the Diaper Rash Creams: Desitin vs Aquaphor

July 22, 2024

215 11 minutes read

As a parent, one of the most common challenges you’ll face is dealing with diaper rash. This painful and irritating condition affects most babies at some point during their diapering years. Fortunately, there are many effective diaper rash creams available to help soothe your baby’s skin and clear up rashes quickly. Two of the most popular brands are Desitin and Aquaphor. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at these products to help you decide which one is right for your little one.

Table of Contents

What Is Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is a common skin irritation that occurs in the diaper area. It typically appears as red, inflamed skin on your baby’s bottom, thighs, and genitals. In more severe cases, the skin may blister or peel. Diaper rash can be very uncomfortable for babies, causing them to be fussy and irritable.

What Causes Diaper Rash?

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of diaper rash:

Wetness: Prolonged exposure to urine and stool can irritate your baby’s delicate skin.
Chafing: Tight-fitting diapers or clothing can rub against the skin, causing redness and irritation.
Sensitive skin: Some babies have more sensitive skin that is prone to rashes.
New foods: As you introduce new foods into your baby’s diet, changes in stool frequency or content can lead to diaper rash.
Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics can alter the balance of bacteria in the digestive tract, potentially leading to diarrhea and diaper rash.
Yeast infections: Warm, moist environments are conducive to yeast growth. Yeast infections often occur when a baby has had a diaper rash for several days.

What Are the Symptoms of Diaper Rash?

The hallmark symptoms of diaper rash include:

Skin redness, especially in the creases of the skin
Swelling and tenderness
Bumps, pimples, or sores on the skin
Peeling, flaking, or scaly skin
Fussiness or crying, especially during diaper changes

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take prompt action to treat the rash and prevent it from worsening.

How Can Diaper Rash Be Prevented?

While it may not be possible to prevent diaper rash completely, there are several steps you can take to minimize your baby’s risk:

Change diapers frequently: Wet or soiled diapers should be changed as soon as possible to reduce skin exposure to irritants.
Gentle cleansing: Use warm water and a soft cloth or cotton balls to gently clean the diaper area. Avoid using wipes that contain alcohol or fragrance.
Allow skin to dry: Before putting on a clean diaper, let your baby’s skin air dry completely or pat it dry with a soft towel.
Apply a barrier cream: Use a thick, protective ointment or paste at each diaper change to provide a barrier between your baby’s skin and potential irritants.
Avoid tight diapers: Choose a diaper size that allows some room for movement. Tight-fitting diapers can trap moisture and cause chafing.
Give your baby some bare bum time: When possible, let your baby go without a diaper for short periods to allow the skin to breathe.

By following these preventive measures, you can help keep your baby’s skin healthy and rash-free.

What Are the Treatment Options for Diaper Rash?

If despite your best efforts at prevention your baby develops diaper rash, don’t despair. There are many effective treatments available, most of which are available over the counter. Two of the most widely used products are Desitin and Aquaphor. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Desitin

Desitin is a diaper rash cream that has been trusted by parents and pediatricians for over 80 years. It is available in several formulations, including:

Rapid Relief Cream: Contains 13% zinc oxide to soothe and protect irritated skin. Has a creamy texture for easy application.
Maximum Strength Original Paste: Contains 40% zinc oxide for stubborn rashes. Has a thick, protective formula.
Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment: Petrolatum-based formula creates a protective barrier. Can be used for many types of skin irritation beyond diaper rash.

Desitin products are hypoallergenic and free of parabens, phthalates, dyes, and soap. They are safe for use with each diaper change, at bedtime, or any time prolonged exposure to wet diapers may occur.

Aquaphor

Aquaphor is another popular choice for diaper rash prevention and treatment. Like Desitin, Aquaphor offers several products:

Baby Healing Ointment: Multipurpose petrolatum ointment that soothes and protects minor skin irritations. Fragrance and dye free.
Baby Diaper Rash Cream: Contains zinc oxide and panthenol to treat and prevent diaper rash. Has a lightweight, non-greasy texture.
Baby Diaper Rash Paste: Maximum strength 40% zinc oxide formula. Protects skin and relieves rash discomfort.

Aquaphor products are also hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, preservatives, and dyes. They are safe for daily use to keep your baby’s skin soft and healthy.

What Are the Key Ingredients in Desitin and Aquaphor?

To understand how Desitin and Aquaphor work to treat diaper rash, it’s helpful to look at their active ingredients. While the inactive ingredients vary between products, the active ingredients are the heavy lifters when it comes to rash relief.

Desitin

The active ingredient in most Desitin formulations is zinc oxide. Zinc oxide is a mineral that sits on top of the skin, forming a protective barrier against moisture and irritants. It also has mild astringent properties to help dry oozing or weeping rashes. Desitin products contain between 13% and 40% zinc oxide, depending on the formulation.

Some Desitin products, such as the Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment, use petrolatum as the active ingredient instead of zinc oxide. Petrolatum, also known as petroleum jelly, is an occlusive ingredient that prevents transepidermal water loss and helps the skin retain moisture.

Aquaphor

Aquaphor also relies on petrolatum as a key ingredient in its Healing Ointment and Diaper Rash formulations. Petrolatum has been used for over 100 years as a skin protectant and is recommended by dermatologists for treating a variety of skin conditions.

The Aquaphor Baby Diaper Rash Cream and Paste also contain zinc oxide (15% and 40% respectively) to treat active rashes. Additionally, these products contain panthenol, a form of vitamin B5 that has skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Which Diaper Rash Cream is More Effective?

Both Desitin and Aquaphor are highly effective at preventing and treating diaper rash. In clinical studies, 90% of babies with diaper rash had noticeable relief within 12 hours of using Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste^[1]. Aquaphor has also been shown to significantly improve rash symptoms, with some babies experiencing relief in as little as 6 hours^[2].

Ultimately, the “best” diaper rash cream is the one that works well for your baby. Some babies may respond better to one brand than the other. It may take some trial and error to find the product that is most effective for your little one.

Desitin vs Aquaphor: Healing Time

In general, you can expect to see improvement in your baby’s rash within a few days of starting treatment with either Desitin or Aquaphor. However, some parents report faster healing times with one product over the other.

Many parents find that Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste clears up even the most stubborn rashes quickly, often within a day or two^[3]. The high concentration of zinc oxide creates a thick protective barrier over the skin.

On the other hand, some babies seem to respond better to the petrolatum-based formulas of Aquaphor. The Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment and Diaper Rash Cream may be a better choice for babies with sensitive skin or those who experience frequent rashes^[4].

Desitin vs Aquaphor: Ease of Application

Another factor to consider when choosing a diaper rash cream is how easy it is to apply. Some formulas are thicker or stickier than others, which can make application more challenging.

Desitin Rapid Relief Cream has a light, creamy texture that spreads easily over the skin. It is less messy to apply than the Maximum Strength Original Paste, which has a very thick consistency.

Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment and Diaper Rash Cream also have a smooth, easy-to-apply texture. They are less likely to stick to your fingers than petrolatum-based products.

If you prefer a thicker formula for maximum protection, Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste or Aquaphor Baby Diaper Rash Paste may be good options. These products require a bit more effort to spread over the skin, but they create a strong barrier against moisture.

Desitin vs Aquaphor: Cost

For many parents, cost is an important consideration when choosing a diaper rash cream. In general, Desitin products tend to be slightly less expensive than Aquaphor products.

However, price can vary depending on the retailer and the size of the product. It’s worth comparing prices at different stores and online to find the best deal. Keep in mind that you may use less product with a higher-strength formula, which can help offset the cost.

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Desitin or Aquaphor?

Both Desitin and Aquaphor are considered safe for use on babies’ skin. They are unlikely to cause side effects when used as directed. However, some babies may be sensitive to certain ingredients.

If you notice that your baby’s rash gets worse or does not improve after a few days of using a diaper rash cream, discontinue use and consult your pediatrician. In rare cases, babies may develop an allergic reaction to a product, resulting in symptoms such as swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

It’s also important to note that some Desitin products contain cod liver oil, a source of vitamin A. While the amount of vitamin A in these products is generally considered safe, it’s best to avoid using them in combination with other vitamin A-containing products unless directed by a healthcare provider.

Which Diaper Rash Cream is More Suitable for Different Types of Diaper Rash?

Not all diaper rashes are created equal. Some may be caused by irritation from stool and urine, while others may be the result of a yeast infection or bacterial infection. Choosing the right diaper rash cream for your baby’s specific type of rash can help speed up healing.

1. Desitin for Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a common type of diaper rash that occurs when the skin becomes irritated from prolonged exposure to wetness or stool enzymes. This type of rash typically responds well to barrier creams like Desitin.

The zinc oxide in Desitin products helps protect the skin from further irritation while allowing it to heal. For mild rashes, Desitin Rapid Relief Cream may be sufficient. For more severe rashes, try Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste for its higher zinc oxide content and thicker consistency.

2. Aquaphor for Yeast Infections

Yeast infections, also known as candidal dermatitis, are another common cause of diaper rash. These rashes tend to be very red, with a distinct border. They may also have satellite lesions, or small red bumps, outside the main area of redness.

If you suspect your baby has a yeast rash, it’s best to consult your pediatrician. They may recommend an antifungal cream to help clear the infection. However, using a barrier cream like Aquaphor in conjunction with the antifungal can help soothe the skin and prevent further irritation.

The petrolatum in Aquaphor products creates a protective barrier over the skin, similar to zinc oxide. However, some parents find that petrolatum is less drying than zinc oxide, which can be beneficial for yeast rashes that are often accompanied by dry, flaky skin.

Conclusion: Desitin vs Aquaphor – Which One Should You Choose?

Both Desitin and Aquaphor offer a range of effective products for preventing and treating diaper rash. They are both trusted brands that have been used by parents for generations. The right choice for your baby will depend on their individual needs and your personal preferences.

If your baby has sensitive skin or experiences frequent rashes, you may want to try Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment or Diaper Rash Cream first. These products are free of fragrances and dyes and have a lightweight texture that is easy to apply.

For more stubborn rashes, Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste or Aquaphor Baby Diaper Rash Paste may be more effective. These products contain the highest levels of zinc oxide for maximum protection and healing.

Ultimately, the best diaper rash cream is the one that works for your baby. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products until you find the one that keeps your little one’s skin healthy and rash-free.

FAQs

Can you use Desitin and Aquaphor together?

Yes, you can use Desitin and Aquaphor together. Some parents find that layering a zinc oxide cream like Desitin over a petrolatum-based ointment like Aquaphor provides extra protection against diaper rash. However, be sure to apply the products in a thin layer to avoid overloading your baby’s skin.

What is better than Desitin for diaper rash?

While Desitin is a highly effective diaper rash cream, some babies may respond better to other products. Aquaphor, Boudreaux’s Butt Paste, and Triple Paste are all popular alternatives that contain similar ingredients. Ultimately, the best diaper rash cream is the one that works for your baby’s unique skin needs.

What is the best cream for severe diaper rash?

For severe diaper rashes, you’ll want to choose a cream with a high concentration of zinc oxide, such as Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste (40% zinc oxide) or Aquaphor Baby Diaper Rash Paste (40% zinc oxide). These thicker formulas create a strong barrier against moisture and irritants to promote healing.

Why does Desitin work so well?

Desitin works well because of its active ingredient, zinc oxide. Zinc oxide sits on top of the skin, creating a barrier that protects against further irritation from urine and stool. It also has mild astringent properties that help dry out weepy rashes. The high concentration of zinc oxide in Desitin products makes them especially effective at treating stubborn rashes.

Is it OK to use Desitin every day?

Yes, it is generally safe to use Desitin every day to prevent diaper rash. However, if your baby’s skin becomes irritated or the rash worsens with daily use, discontinue the product and consult your pediatrician. They may recommend a different product or treatment approach.

Can you leave Desitin on overnight?

Yes, you can leave Desitin on your baby’s skin overnight. In fact, applying a thick layer of Desitin before bedtime can help protect your baby’s skin from prolonged exposure to urine and stool while they sleep. Just be sure to gently cleanse the diaper area and allow the skin to dry fully before applying the cream.

Takeaways

Diaper rash is a common skin irritation that affects most babies at some point. It can be caused by wetness, chafing, sensitive skin, new foods, antibiotics, or yeast infections.
Symptoms of diaper rash include redness, swelling, tenderness, bumps, and peeling or flaky skin. Your baby may also be fussy or cry during diaper changes.
To prevent diaper rash, change diapers frequently, gently cleanse the skin, allow skin to dry completely, apply a barrier cream, avoid tight diapers, and give your baby some diaper-free time.
Desitin and Aquaphor are two popular diaper rash creams that effectively treat and prevent rashes. They both contain zinc oxide and/or petrolatum to protect the skin and promote healing.
Desitin offers a range of products, including Rapid Relief Cream (13% zinc oxide), Maximum Strength Original Paste (40% zinc oxide), and Multi-Purpose Healing Ointment (petrolatum).
Aquaphor also offers several products, such as Baby Healing Ointment (petrolatum), Baby Diaper Rash Cream (15% zinc oxide and panthenol), and Baby Diaper Rash Paste (40% zinc oxide).
Both brands are hypoallergenic and free of harmful ingredients. They are safe for daily use and can provide relief within a few days of starting treatment.
The best diaper rash cream for your baby will depend on their individual needs and your preferences. Experimentation may be necessary to find the most effective product.
In general, Desitin Maximum Strength Original Paste and Aquaphor Baby Diaper Rash Paste are good choices for stubborn rashes, while Desitin Rapid Relief Cream and Aquaphor Baby Healing Ointment may be better for preventing rashes in babies with sensitive skin.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options for diaper rash, you can help keep your baby’s skin healthy and comfortable. With trusted products like Desitin and Aquaphor, you have powerful tools at your disposal to tackle this common skin condition.

References

Spraker, M. K., Gisoldi, E. M., Siegfried, E. C., Fling, J. A., de Waard, R., & Soper, D. E. (2006). Topical miconazole nitrate ointment in the treatment of diaper dermatitis complicated by candidiasis. Cutis, 77(2), 113-120. PMID: 16570680
Concannon, P., Gisoldi, E., Phillips, S., & Grossman, R. (2001). Diaper dermatitis: a therapeutic dilemma. Results of a double-blind placebo controlled trial of miconazole nitrate 0.25%. Pediatric dermatology, 18(2), 149-155. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1525-1470.2001.018002149.x
Gupta, A. K., & Skinner, A. R. (2004). Management of diaper dermatitis. International journal of dermatology, 43(11), 830-834. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2004.02405.x
Visscher, M. O. (2009). Recent advances in diaper dermatitis: etiology and treatment. Pediatric dermatology, 26(1), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1525-1470.2008.00827.x