Best Ointment for Diaper Rash: Top Picks for Soothed and Happy Skin
When you’re caring for a baby, finding the right ointment to protect their delicate skin is a top priority. The best ointment for diaper rash does more than just soothe irritated skin—it shields against moisture, prevents further discomfort, and promotes faster healing. There are countless options available, so how do you pick the best? We’ve gathered the top-rated ointments that are known for relieving diaper rash effectively, based on customer feedback, product details, and expert recommendations.
Below, you’ll find a list of the top picks, along with in-depth reviews, pros and cons, and a buyer’s guide to help you choose the best ointment for your baby’s needs.
Here are the Top Best Ointment For Diaper Rash:
- Dr. Smith’s Diaper Ointment
- Triple Paste Hypoallergenic Cream
- Desitin Maximum Strength
- Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm
- A&D Diaper Rash Ointment
- Weleda Baby Calendula Cream
- Mustela Baby Diaper Cream
- Burt’s Bees Diaper Rash Ointment
- Era Organics Diaper Balm
- Motherlove Diaper Balm
- PINXAV Healing Cream
- French Organic Diaper Balm
Best Ointment for Diaper Rash—The Top Picks Breakdown:
Product Name | Price | Best For | Key Ingredients | Size | Type | Hypoallergenic? |
Dr. Smith’s Diaper Ointment | $6.63 | Quick relief from rash | Zinc oxide, Cream base | 3 oz (2-pack) | Ointment | Yes |
Triple Paste Diaper Rash Cream | $31.94 | Severe rashes | Zinc oxide, Beeswax, Oat | 16 oz | Ointment | Yes |
Desitin Maximum Strength Cream | $7.55 | Fast relief for severe rashes | 40% Zinc oxide | 4.8 oz | Paste | Yes |
Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm | $15.29 | Sensitive skin & cloth diapers | Organic calendula, St. John’s Wort | 2 oz | Balm | Yes |
A&D Diaper Rash Ointment | $10.98 | Long-lasting protection | Lanolin, Vitamin A & D | 1.5 oz (2-pack) | Ointment | Yes |
Weleda Baby Calendula Diaper Cream | $40.98 | Natural healing | Calendula, Chamomile, Zinc | 2.8 oz (3-pack) | Cream | Yes |
Mustela Baby Diaper Rash Cream | $35.24 | Preventing & relieving rash | Zinc oxide, Avocado Oil | 13.92 oz | Cream | Yes |
Burt’s Bees Diaper Rash Ointment | $26.29 | Nourishing & protective | Zinc oxide, Shea butter | 3 oz (3-pack) | Ointment | Yes |
Era Organics Diaper Balm | $18.29 | Natural ingredients & sensitive skin | Calendula, Coconut Oil | 3.17 oz | Balm | Yes |
Motherlove Diaper Balm | $24.99 | Cloth diapers & soothing rashes | Calendula, Yarrow | 4 oz | Balm | Yes |
PINXAV Healing Cream | $26.97 | Multipurpose rash healing | Zinc oxide, Aloe, Menthol | 16 oz | Cream | Yes |
French Organic Diaper Balm | $23.39 | Organic & versatile | Olive oil, Vitamin E | 4 oz | Balm | Yes |
Review: The Best Ointment For Diaper Rash
1. Dr. Smith’s Diaper Ointment
This affordable and effective diaper rash ointment delivers fast relief, making it a favorite for busy parents. Dr. Smith’s Diaper Ointment works overnight to treat even the toughest rashes. With a creamy texture that spreads easily and washes off without a fuss, this ointment ensures your baby’s delicate skin remains soft and smooth.
It’s gentle on sensitive skin and is particularly useful for parents looking for a product that is hassle-free during application. The blend of ingredients provides a solid barrier against moisture, while its pleasant scent makes it a more enjoyable option than some harsher-smelling alternatives.
Pros
✅ Fast-acting relief, often noticeable overnight
✅ Smooth, non-tacky consistency that spreads easily and wipes off cleanly
✅ Gentle enough for sensitive skin, providing comfort even with frequent application
✅ Affordable price point, offering excellent value with a 2-pack
Cons
❗ Hard to find in stores
❗ May require multiple applications for severe rashes
Perfect For:
✅ Parents who want a quick, overnight solution for diaper rashes
✅ Those looking for a product that applies easily without leaving a mess
✅ Families who need a gentle formula for everyday use
2. Triple Paste Hypoallergenic Cream
Parents dealing with persistent rashes often turn to Triple Paste, known as the best ointment for severe diaper rash for its thick, soothing formula. This hypoallergenic formula is thick and soothing, creating a long-lasting barrier that heals irritated skin. The cream’s key ingredient, zinc oxide, helps keep moisture away from the skin while the addition of oat extract and beeswax ensures nourishing comfort.
Triple Paste is pediatrician-recommended, making it a trusted option for treating stubborn rashes. Parents often find it’s worth the higher price tag because of how quickly it works.
Pros
✅ Excellent for treating and preventing severe diaper rashes
✅ Long-lasting, thick formula ensures it stays on for hours
✅ Free from harsh chemicals like parabens and dyes, making it safe for sensitive skin
✅ Pediatrician-recommended for both treatment and prevention
Cons
❗ Pricey compared to other diaper creams
❗ Some users find it too thick to spread easily
Perfect For:
✅ Parents dealing with severe diaper rashes who need a fast-acting, reliable cream
✅ Those who prefer a thick, long-lasting barrier against moisture
✅ Families with babies who have sensitive or eczema-prone skin
3. Desitin Maximum Strength
Best Ointment for Severe Diaper Rash!
Desitin Maximum Strength is often considered the best ointment for severe diaper rash, with its 40% zinc oxide offering immediate protection and relief — the highest concentration allowed without a prescription. This fast-acting diaper rash cream works wonders on even the worst rashes, sealing out moisture and providing long-lasting relief. It’s hypoallergenic, free from harmful chemicals, and trusted by pediatricians. The creamy consistency makes it easy to apply, and it forms a protective barrier that lasts up to 12 hours, making it ideal for overnight use.
Pros
✅ Contains 40% zinc oxide, the strongest concentration available without a prescription, for maximum protection against moisture.
✅ Hypoallergenic and free from parabens, phthalates, and dyes, ensuring it’s safe for sensitive skin.
✅ Clinically proven to protect, treat, and prevent diaper rash, providing fast-acting relief for severe cases.
✅ Long-lasting protection for up to 12 hours, perfect for overnight application.
✅ Easy to apply and spread, thanks to its creamy texture.
Cons
❗ May leave a thick white residue on the skin.
❗ The strong formula can be too much for minor rashes.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for an overnight solution for severe diaper rashes.
✅ Babies prone to recurring rashes that need extra protection against moisture.
✅ Parents who prefer a strong, fast-acting ointment that stays on the skin for long periods.
4. Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm
Best Diaper Rash Ointment for Newborns
Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm is highly recommended as the best diaper rash ointment for newborns, thanks to its all-natural ingredients and soothing properties. If you prefer a more natural approach, Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm is an excellent option. Made with a blend of USDA-certified organic herbs like calendula and St. John’s Wort, this balm is free from petroleum, zinc, and artificial fragrances, making it perfect for sensitive skin. It’s gentle enough for daily use and is safe for cloth diapers, too. Earth Mama’s balm is not just for babies; you can also use it on other areas of irritated skin, including minor scrapes and burns.
Pros
✅ Made with organic herbs like calendula and St. John’s Wort, offering natural soothing and healing properties.
✅ Free from petroleum, zinc, and artificial fragrances, making it perfect for babies with sensitive skin.
✅ Safe for use with cloth diapers, as it doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue.
✅ Multi-purpose balm that can be used for other skin irritations, including minor scrapes, burns, and dry patches.
✅ Dermatologist and pediatrician tested, providing confidence in its gentle and effective formula.
Cons
❗ Smaller size may run out quickly with frequent use.
❗ The natural formula is less effective on severe diaper rashes compared to zinc-based products.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents who want an organic, all-natural balm for their baby’s sensitive skin.
✅ Families who use cloth diapers and need a diaper cream that won’t interfere with absorbency.
✅ Those looking for a multi-use balm for diaper rashes and other minor skin irritations.
5. A&D Diaper Rash Ointment & Skin Protectant
A&D’s Diaper Rash Ointment is a long-time favorite among parents for its affordability and effectiveness. This ointment contains lanolin and vitamins A and D, creating a soothing, protective barrier against moisture. A&D is ideal for daily use and helps prevent diaper rash from developing. While it doesn’t contain zinc, it’s an excellent option for protecting your baby’s skin from the start and keeping it soft and smooth with every diaper change.
Pros
✅ Contains vitamins A and D, which help nourish and protect your baby’s skin during every diaper change.
✅ Creates a long-lasting barrier that helps prevent diaper rash before it starts.
✅ Gentle enough for daily use, making it a convenient choice for busy parents.
✅ Affordable price, especially with the 2-pack, offering excellent value for money.
✅ Versatile formula that can also be used to soothe minor skin irritations like chapped or dry skin.
Cons
❗ Does not contain zinc oxide, so it may not be as effective for severe rashes.
❗ Some users find it a bit greasy.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for a budget-friendly, daily-use ointment to prevent diaper rashes.
✅ Babies with mild diaper rash or those who need a preventative barrier for long-term protection.
✅ Families who want a multi-purpose ointment for both diaper rash and other minor skin issues.
6. Weleda Baby Calendula Diaper Cream
Weleda Baby Calendula Diaper Cream offers plant-rich protection with natural ingredients like calendula, chamomile, and sweet almond oil. This gentle cream also contains zinc oxide, which creates a protective barrier against moisture, making it ideal for preventing and healing diaper rashes. Weleda’s diaper cream is certified natural and free from synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and petroleum, making it a safe and effective option for babies with sensitive skin.
Weleda’s thick calendula-based cream is considered one of the best ointments for diaper rash from diarrhea, as it forms a strong barrier against moisture and soothes irritated skin.
Pros
✅ Contains calendula and chamomile, which have soothing and healing properties for irritated skin.
✅ Formulated with zinc oxide for moisture protection and rash prevention.
✅ Certified natural and free from synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and petroleum, offering peace of mind to parents.
✅ Nourishing formula that’s gentle enough for newborns and older babies alike.
✅ Multi-use cream that can also help with minor cuts, scrapes, and other skin irritations.
Cons
❗ Higher price point compared to other diaper creams.
❗ Thick consistency may take some effort to spread.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for a natural and effective diaper cream that protects sensitive skin.
✅ Babies prone to skin irritation who need a gentle formula for daily use.
✅ Families who prefer products with natural, plant-based ingredients.
7. Mustela Baby Diaper Rash Cream 123
Mustela’s Baby Diaper Rash Cream 123 is designed to prevent, relieve, and replenish your baby’s delicate skin during diaper changes. This cream is clinically proven to relieve irritation and redness from the first use, making it a must-have for parents dealing with frequent diaper rashes. The 98% natural formula is hypoallergenic, safe for newborns, and free from harmful chemicals like parabens and fragrance. Key ingredients like zinc oxide, avocado perseose, and sunflower oil distillate make it both nourishing and protective.
Pros
✅ 3-in-1 formula that prevents, relieves, and replenishes baby’s delicate skin.
✅ Clinically proven to reduce irritation and redness from the first application.
✅ Contains 98% natural ingredients, ensuring safety for sensitive and newborn skin.
✅ Thick and long-lasting, providing a strong barrier against moisture.
✅ Free from harmful chemicals like parabens and fragrances, making it gentle for everyday use.
Cons
❗ Some users may find the cream too thick for quick application.
❗ Higher price point compared to other options.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for a diaper cream that works quickly to relieve irritation and redness.
✅ Babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin who need a safe, natural solution.
✅ Families who want a protective, long-lasting cream for everyday use.
8. Burt’s Bees Baby Diaper Rash Ointment
Burt’s Bees Baby Diaper Rash Ointment combines maximum strength zinc oxide (40%) with nourishing natural ingredients like shea butter, lavender oil, and jojoba oil. This ointment provides a strong protective barrier while nourishing and reconditioning your baby’s skin. It’s pediatrician-tested, hypoallergenic, and free from parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals, making it safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Pros
✅ Contains 40% zinc oxide for maximum protection against moisture and quick rash relief.
✅ Nourishing ingredients like shea butter, lavender oil, and jojoba oil that condition and protect your baby’s skin.
✅ Hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals, making it safe for babies with sensitive skin.
✅ Pediatrician-tested for peace of mind and quality assurance.
✅ Creamy consistency that stays on well, offering long-lasting protection.
Cons
❗ Slightly thicker consistency may require more effort to apply.
❗ More expensive compared to other natural diaper rash creams.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents who want a strong diaper rash ointment with natural, nourishing ingredients.
✅ Babies with sensitive skin who need a hypoallergenic, pediatrician-tested cream.
✅ Families looking for a long-lasting barrier cream that also conditions and protects the skin.
9. Era Organics Baby Diaper Balm
Era Organics Baby Diaper Balm is made with USDA organic ingredients and is perfect for babies with dry, sensitive skin. This balm contains soothing ingredients like calendula oil, chamomile extract, and coconut oil, which help relieve diaper rash and prevent future irritation. Free from parabens, mineral oil, and other harsh chemicals, Era Organics Baby Balm provides a protective barrier while moisturizing your baby’s delicate skin.
Pros
✅ Made with organic ingredients like calendula, chamomile, and coconut oil, offering natural protection and relief.
✅ Hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals like parabens and petrolatum, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
✅ Provides a protective barrier against moisture while moisturizing the skin.
✅ Multi-use balm that can also be used for dry skin, chafing, and other skin irritations.
✅ Smooth and easy to apply, with a pleasant scent that doesn’t overwhelm.
Cons
❗ Smaller size may require frequent repurchasing.
❗ The price is slightly higher than other balms.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for an organic, chemical-free diaper balm for their baby’s sensitive skin.
✅ Families who prefer multi-use balms for diaper rash and other minor skin irritations.
✅ Babies with sensitive skin who need gentle, soothing relief from rashes.
10. Motherlove Diaper Balm
Motherlove Diaper Balm is an organic herbal ointment designed to soothe and heal diaper rashes naturally. This balm contains antibacterial and antifungal herbs like Oregon grape root, myrrh gum, and yarrow, which help restore yeast balance and prevent further irritation. It’s safe for use with cloth diapers and free from petroleum, zinc oxide, and other synthetic fillers, making it a great option for eco-conscious parents.
Motherlove Diaper Balm is a fantastic option for babies suffering from yeast infections, making it the best ointment for yeast diaper rash due to its antifungal herbal ingredients.
Pros
✅ Contains natural antibacterial and antifungal herbs like Oregon grape root and myrrh gum.
✅ Cloth diaper safe, as it doesn’t contain petroleum or zinc oxide.
✅ Free from synthetic fillers, parabens, and phthalates, making it safe for sensitive skin.
✅ Multi-use balm that can also be used on other irritated areas of the skin.
✅ Absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, perfect for busy parents.
Cons
❗ Smaller size may not last as long with frequent use.
❗ Higher price compared to other organic diaper balms.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents using cloth diapers who need a safe, effective balm.
✅ Families looking for an organic, herbal option for treating diaper rashes and other skin irritations.
✅ Babies with sensitive skin who need a quick-absorbing balm that works without leaving residue.
11. PINXAV Healing Cream
PINXAV Healing Cream is a multipurpose ointment designed to relieve diaper rash and other skin irritations. With 30% zinc oxide, this cream forms a thick, protective barrier that soothes inflamed skin. In addition to zinc oxide, it contains a blend of healing oils like aloe, vitamin E, eucalyptus, and clove, which help nourish and protect the skin. PINXAV is great not only for diaper rash but also for eczema, chafing, and even minor burns or cuts.
Pros
✅ 30% zinc oxide creates a strong barrier to keep moisture out and promote healing.
✅ Contains healing ingredients like aloe, vitamin E, and clove oil that soothe irritated skin.
✅ Versatile use for diaper rash, chafing, bedsores, and even minor cuts or burns.
✅ Large 16 oz tub provides a good value, especially for multipurpose use.
✅ Fast-acting formula that works on even the most stubborn diaper rashes.
Cons
❗ The thick texture can make application a bit messy.
❗ The scent may be too strong for some users.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for a powerful ointment that works on more than just diaper rashes.
✅ Babies with severe diaper rash that need fast, effective relief.
✅ Families who need a multipurpose ointment for a variety of skin irritations.
12. French Organic Diaper Balm
La Petite Creme’s French Organic Diaper Balm is a gentle and nourishing cream made with organic olive oil, beeswax, and vitamin E. This balm is both USDA- and EWG-certified, ensuring that it meets strict standards for organic ingredients and safety. The smooth application makes it easy to use with both cloth and disposable diapers, and the natural ingredients help soothe diaper rashes and prevent future irritation.
Pros
✅ Made with organic ingredients like olive oil and beeswax, ensuring safety for sensitive baby skin.
✅ EWG and USDA certified, meeting high standards for organic and human safety.
✅ Gentle, smooth formula that’s easy to apply and works well with cloth and disposable diapers.
✅ Can also be used for dry, irritated skin, making it a versatile balm for the whole family.
✅ Pleasant, light scent that doesn’t overpower or irritate.
Cons
❗ Small container size may run out quickly.
❗ More expensive compared to other diaper rash creams.
Perfect For:
✅ Parents looking for an organic, eco-friendly diaper balm.
✅ Families using cloth diapers who need a diaper-safe cream.
✅ Babies with sensitive skin who need a gentle, effective barrier against moisture.
How to Choose the Best Ointment for Diaper Rash
When choosing the best ointment for diaper rash, there are a few essential factors to consider:
- Ingredients: Look for creams with zinc oxide or natural ingredients like calendula and chamomile. Avoid ointments with parabens, fragrances, or dyes, especially for sensitive skin.
- Consistency: Some parents prefer a thick barrier cream, while others prefer something that spreads easily. Decide based on your needs for ease of use and protection.
- Hypoallergenic: For babies with sensitive skin, it’s crucial to choose a hypoallergenic ointment to prevent any additional irritation.
- Moisture Protection: The main function of any diaper rash cream is to protect your baby’s skin from moisture. Look for one that forms a solid barrier.
- Multi-use: Some ointments can also be used for other skin irritations, such as minor cuts, scrapes, and chafing, providing more value for your money.
Concluding Our Best Ointment for Diaper Rash Guide
Choosing the best ointment for diaper rash doesn’t have to be a challenge. With options like Dr. Smith’s for quick relief, Triple Paste for severe rashes, and natural balms like Earth Mama and Weleda, there’s something for every need. Each of these products is designed to soothe, protect, and prevent further irritation, keeping your baby’s skin smooth and comfortable.
Whether you’re dealing with severe rashes or just want to protect your baby’s skin with the best diaper rash ointment for newborns, the right choice will ensure your little one is happy and rash-free.