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The joy of baby-rearing is priceless. But, it doesn’t go without some messes.

Before you know it, you’ll become a seasoned expert when it comes to washing bottles, cleaning up hoards of scattered toys, and changing diapers. Perhaps it’s not the most glamorous of topics, but it’s one that new parents are all too familiar with — the dreaded diaper rash.

Diaper rash affects plenty of babies. While the condition exhibits itself differently with each child, most will display apparent red patches on the skin around their buttocks, thighs, and genitals. It can be caused by wet or soiled diapers that aren’t changed often enough, according to the Mayo Clinic. The best way to prevent the rash is by changing your baby’s diaper frequently and rinsing their bottom with water after each change, in addition to using gentle wipes for big messes. If diaper rash persists, it could be time to look for a diaper rash cream.

The Post spoke with Miranda Padilla, a full-spectrum doula and founder of the Mothership NYC. Padilla has provided her recommendations on diaper rash creams available for babies who struggle with frequent diaper rashes — like Triple Paste, Earth Momma Original, and Desitin. She suggests looking for formulas that contain Zinc Oxide — which reduces the growth of bacteria that can lead to diaper rash.

Read on for Padilla’s recommendations for diaper creams or jump down to Padilla’s tips and tricks for treating diaper rash.

Size: 2.8 ounces

“The Weleda Calendula Diaper Rash Cream was what I personally used with my now 4-year-old,” shared Padilla. “It contains gentle herbal extracts of calendula and chamomile, blended with sweet almond and sesame oil, lanolin, and zinc oxide to soothe skin and protect against dampness. Weleda is a great choice for babies with the most sensitive skin.”

Parents mention that the scent is fresh and light, which is ideal for parents looking to avoid stronger fragrances.

Size: 3 ounces

“Triple Paste All in One Triple Protection has a unique formula containing oat extract and beeswax,” explained Padilla.”Triple Paste sounds super strong but is free from harsh chemicals, contains just the right blend to help restore irritated skin, and can be used daily.”

This blend does contain a higher dose of zinc oxide than some competitors, which means it should be more effective in treating rashes quickly.

Size: 2 ounces

Say goodbye to sticky fingers!

“For those who prefer a touch-free application, the Honest Company Diaper Rash Cream Spray is an awesome choice,” said Padilla. “Formulated with Zinc Oxide, this hypoallergenic, physician-tested cream will get the job done.”

Since this formula is made with natural ingredients, some customers recommend applying it liberally for the best results.

Size: 4.8 ounces

When diaper rashes get difficult to treat, Padilla opts for something stronger.

“For very stubborn rashes, I recommend the DESITIN Maximum Strength Original Zinc Oxide Paste. At 40%, this formula contains the maximum level of zinc oxide possible in an over-the-counter cream. In a clinical study, 90% of babies with diaper rash had noticeable relief within 12 hours of application,” Padilla said.

Size: 2-4 ounces

Padilla has another pick for a diaper cream that is cloth-diaper friendly and works wonders as a multi-use skin salve. “Another personally used and recommended formula is Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm,” she shared. “This is a great choice for families who use cloth diapers. This balm is zinc-free and contains a blend of powerful organic herbs including St. John’s wort, plantain leaf, chickweed, and calendula. It also works as a multi-use skin salve for the whole family. I remember using it for everything.”

Size: 3.5 ounces

Aquaphor has been my trusted, go-to brand for chapped lips for years. I stocked up on the Aquaphor diaper rash cream as soon as my daughter was born. Our pediatrician recommended this odor-free formula, which has been enriched with shea butter to help soothe irritated skin. It’s worked better than anything else we’ve tried — it’s thick so a little goes a long way and it last overnight!

Customers are saying: “This cream works great! It has helped clear up my little ones’ diaper rash in less than a day. Is the paste super thick, yes…but it gets the job done! A little goes a long way.”

Size: 3.5 ounces

As Padilla pointed out, applying diaper rash cream can get a bit messy — especially if you’re on the go and have limited space. Rather than worrying about spreading a gooey formula, you might want to opt for a spray. Parents love how easy the application is with this option from Dr. Smith. The smell is minimal and it’s the perfect size to throw in a diaper bag or purse.

Customers are saying: “It’s easy to use, the smell is minimal, and it’s small enough to fit in a diaper bag or purse. My son’s rash cleared up within days of using this spray, and that was after battling it for almost a week with creams.”

Size: 16 ounces

This fast-acting diaper cream is clinically proven to clear up rashes in just three hours. Customers say it sinks into the skin well, as opposed to some other formulas that stick on the skin and rub off quickly. Unlike some of the more grainy products, Balmex has a smooth, creamy texture. Some reviewers have also mentioned that this cream works well to prevent future rashes, in addition to cleaning up current irritations.

Customers are saying: “It works quickly! It’s thick and spreads well! It adheres to the skin pretty well & it’s affordable! And it doesn’t have that smell like Desitin has. I slather a big spoonful on the rash and the redness is almost totally gone within a couple hours.”

Size: 3 ounces

Another option with a touch-free application is the Mustle Diaper Rash Cream Spray, which is made with 99% all-natural ingredients and is ideal for babies with sensitive skin. Parents recommend using Mustela on babies with milder rashes and irritations. For best results, shake well and spray four to six inches from the skin. 

Customers are saying: “A no-touch spray, the days of getting that white paint lacquer-like stuff all over your hands and fingers are over. No more using that spatula thing! Great product! We have one by the changing station and another one in our diaper bag for on-the-go!”

Sizing: 16 ounces

If you’re looking for a diaper rash cream that treats irritation on top of hydrating and brightening the skin — go with A+ D. It’s all in the name. A +D Diaper rash cream contains Vitamin A and Vitamin D to soothe, moisturize, and protect the natural skin barrier. This cream isn’t just for babies — you can also use it to treat cracked feet, skin, and lips. With a 16-ounce supply, you won’t be running out anytime soon.

Customers are saying: “The ointment is incredibly effective at preventing and treating diaper rash, thanks to its rich formula that includes vitamins A and D. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, keeping moisture out and helping to heal dry, irritated skin”

According to Mayo Clinic, diaper rash or diaper dermatitis “is a form of dermatitis that looks like patches of inflamed skin on the buttocks, thighs and genitals. It can be caused by wet or soiled diapers that aren’t changed often enough. Or it may be due to skin sensitivity and chafing.”

Diaper rash is very common in infants and toddlers. According to Padilla, some common causes include prolonged exposure to urine and stool in dirty diapers, irritation from the diaper and its ingredients, or allergic reactions to wipes or soap. Diaper rashes can also be caused by infection, which is why it’s important to consult a Doctor if the condition does not improve.

No case of diaper rash looks exactly the same. “Diaper rash may appear as redness, irritation, and in severe cases, broken skin, causing discomfort,” Padilla explained.

“Diaper cream may be applied after every diaper change, as a preventive measure,” suggested Padilla. “Diaper cream can serve as a barrier between wetness and the skin.”

Padilla has tried out a variety of diaper creams, but there are a few ingredients she swears by. “Look for diaper creams with at least 10% Zinc and soothing oils and herbs,” she recommended.

“Menthol should definitely be avoided on broken, chapped skin. There are some older balm-style formulas on the market that contain it,” Padilla noted.

Padilla has recommended gently washing the baby’s bottom with warm water and keeping diapers off of them as much as possible to clear rashes. She added that tight-fitting diapers may retain more moisture, exasperating rashes.

“Purchase diapers that are free from fragrance and harsh chemicals, which can irritate baby’s skin. Avoid these chemicals in fabric softeners, detergents, wipes, baby lotions, fragrances, and soaps. Diapers should be changed every two hours or so,” Padilla added.

This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Journalist. As a Gen Z first-time mother of one, Miska tests baby, maternity and postpartum products ranging from stylish new kids clothes to long-trusted diaper brands with her daughter. She evaluates baby- and mom-approved products for practicality and quality, and consults medical and parenting experts to weigh in on safe ingredients, usage and more. Before arriving at the Post, she covered the lifestyle and consumer verticals for the U.S. Sun.

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