4 Home Remedies for Diaper Rash That Actually Work (2024)

Home remedies can help to soothe diaper rash, a common skin condition in babies also known as diaper dermatitis. Over-the-counter ointments or an oatmeal bath can help you and your baby to deal with moisture that irritates the skin and causes symptoms of red, sore skin and peeling.

While diaper rash is common, it can be prevented. Changing diapers more often, or changing the type or fit of diapers, may help you to avoid symptoms that lead to an irritated and tearful baby. Talk with your healthcare provider if diaper rash symptoms continue or worsen.

1. Try Breast Milk

Some studies suggest that breast milk applied to a diaper rash can soothe symptoms, much as it can help to relieve sore nipples sore nipples after breastfeeding.

A small study of 30 infants found that breast milk appeared to help heal diaper rash when all other factors (type of diaper, number of changes per day) were assessed, too. This may be due to the nutrients in breast milk, which include vitamin E.

However, research results have been mixed and more study on the benefits of breast milk used topically on the skin is needed.

2. Apply Soothing OTC Creams

Over-the-counter (OTC) creams are effective treatments for mild to moderate diaper rash. Most cases of diaper rash are caused by the irritation when the skin is exposed to moisture from urine, stool (poop), or sweat.

An OTC cream can work as a barrier between your baby’s skin and any moisture in their diaper.Many healthcare providers recommend using OTC creams that contain zinc oxide because it is an effective barrier. Examples include:

• Desitin
• Triple Paste
• Balmex

When changing your baby’s diaper, apply a thick layer of cream to cover the rash completely.

Another OTC option is petroleum jelly. A barrier jelly like Vaseline can block moisture from your child’s skin.

3. Try Plant-Based Remedies

Herbal remedies and foods have long been considered traditional remedies for treating diaper rash. These options can include:

• Sunflower oil or coconut oil: When massaged into a diaper rash, these oils work much like barrier creams. A 2021 study found that vegetable oils like olive oil and mustard oil are less effective.
• Marigold and aloe vera: These plant-based remedies have been studied when treating diaper rash, with marigold (Calendula officinalis) outperforming aloe, a common treatment for skin irritation.
• Henna: This plant-based option (Lawsonia inermis) offered more relief than hydrocortisone ointment when studied. That's likely due to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Witch hazel: Small amounts of witch hazel applied to the skin can help soothe diaper rash.
  
• Oatmeal bath: Colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve skin irritation caused by diaper rash.

4. Use Bentonite Clay

Bentonite clay is a unique type of clay that is absorbent and formed from volcanic ash. It is often studied for its uses in treating skin problems.

Bentonite clay may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is also known to absorb water and protect the skin, offering potential benefits in treating diaper rash.

What to Avoid

Not all home remedies are safe for a baby’s skin. Avoid any products that contain fragrances or dyes, which can be irritating to the skin. If your baby is experiencing diaper rash, avoid using detergents, fabric softeners, or dryer sheets that contain fragrances.

Do not use any powder on your baby’s diaper rash. This includes baby powder, cornstarch, or baking soda. These are dangerous for a baby to inhale.

Prevention

Many babies experience diaper rash but it can be prevented or improved with simple steps. Because diaper rash is often caused by exposure to moisture, it is important to keep your baby’s diaper area as clean and dry as possible.

To lower the risk of diaper rash, consider the following tips:

• Change your baby’s diaper often and as soon as it is soiled.
• Cleanse your baby’s diaper area with a warm washcloth or an unscented baby wipe that is free of alcohol. After wiping the skin, apply a diaper cream.
• Consider switching from cloth diapers to disposable diapers because they are more absorbent.
• Ensure your baby’s diaper fits well and is not too small or tight.
  
• Allow the baby to spend time without a diaper on.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

Call your child’s healthcare provider if a diaper rash lasts more than three to four days, especially if it is not improving. Other reasons to call your provider include diaper rash with any of the following symptoms:

• Open sores (with or without pus)
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Fussiness

Diaper rash can have other causes beside irritation from moisture or waste. A yeast infection can occur, especially when a child is taking antibiotic medications. Seborrheic dermatitis can cause yellow, oily patches in the red skin of the diaper area but may appear on other parts of the body. It's important to get a diagnosis if symptoms don't resolve.

Summary

Diaper rash is a common skin condition. It is usually caused by skin irritation from contact with moisture. Diaper rash can be very uncomfortable for babies and may lead to crying and fussiness.

Home remedies may help to heal mild to moderate causes of diaper rash. Proven treatment options include barrier creams that contain zinc oxide or petroleum jelly. Talk with your child’s healthcare provider if you’re considering alternative treatments like breast milk, coconut oil, or Bentonite clay.

Keep your child’s diaper area as clean and dry as possible to prevent diaper rash. Change diapers often and as soon as they are soiled. Use baby wipes that are free of fragrances and alcohol.