Diaper cream is a powerful tool for treating and preventing diaper rash. However, too many parents don’t know the best way to apply it, causing it to be less effective. When used correctly, it can not only help skin to heal, but it can also stop rashes from developing in the future.
Knowing how to apply diaper rash cream for these different purposes will help you get the best results. Our guide will provide you with a step-by-step guide, as well as help you avoid some common mistakes.
When to Apply Diaper Cream
When you apply diaper cream will depend on whether you are treating a rash or using it as a preventative measure.
Treating Diaper Rash
If your baby has already developed diaper rash, you should try to apply cream as much as possible. Ideally, you want to be applying it in a thin layer after every diaper change until the rash eases. Make sure the skin is clean and completely dry before applying.
Prevention
Incorporating diaper cream into your baby’s routine is a great way to help prevent diaper rash flare-ups. If you are trying to prevent diaper rash, you should apply it daily. It is usually best to apply it at night before they go to bed. This will give added protection when they may be exposed to a moist diaper for a longer period of time.
How Much Diaper Cream to Apply
Applying the correct amount of diaper cream is important to make sure it is effective. You should apply a thin layer to the whole area, paying particular attention to leg creases and any hard-to-reach areas.
If you apply too much cream, the skin won’t be able to breathe, which can irritate it. If the layer is too thin or you miss areas, there won’t be enough cream for it to work effectively.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Diaper Cream
Once you know the best way to apply diaper cream effectively, it will help soothe and protect your baby’s skin. Our simple steps will make sure you are getting the best results every time.
- Completely clean the area using water or natural wipes
- Let the area completely dry. Airdrying is the most gentle way.
- Wash your hands thoroughly or use Dr. Talbot’s Diaper Cream Brush.
- Apply a thin layer that completely covers the whole area. Use a zinc-based cream with naturally inspired ingredients like Dr. Talbot’s Diaper Rash Ointment.
Where to Apply Diaper Cream (Boys vs. Girls)
Now you know how to apply diaper cream correctly. However, it is important to make sure you tailor your method depending on whether you have a boy or a girl.
Boys
When applying diaper cream to a baby boy, you should pay particular attention to the scrotum and buttocks. Make sure you apply cream in any folds, as these can easily become irritated.
Girls
If you are applying cream to a girl, you should focus on the vulva. However, it is important to avoid any openings or deep folds as this can quickly lead to infection.
With both boys and girls, it is important to avoid getting cream inside any opening, as this can lead to irritation or infection.
Common Mistakes Parents Make
Many parents think simply applying diaper cream is enough to treat and prevent diaper rash. In doing so, they often make common mistakes that make it less effective.
Apply to Wet Skin
To be most effective, diaper cream needs to be applied to completely dry skin. Applying it to wet skin will trap the moisture against the skin, which will cause a rash to develop or worsen. This is why you should always wait for the area to be completely dry before applying.
Applying Too Much
When applying diaper cream, you want to cover the whole area in a thin layer. Applying too much can stop the cream from being as effective.
Not Letting the Area Breathe
Consistently wearing a diaper can cause diaper rash, which is why it is important to have daily diaper-free time.
Using Diaper Cream as a Preventive Measure
As well as treating diaper rash, diaper cream is an excellent way to prevent it in the future. When applied to unbroken skin, it forms a protective barrier. This stops moisture from coming into contact with the skin, which is one of the main causes of diaper rash. To get the best results, you should apply it daily as part of your baby’s routine. This will help keep the skin continuously protected.
Diaper cream is also great for treating the early signs of diaper rash. As soon as you see any sign of it developing, you should apply diaper cream to the affected area as frequently as possible.
When to See a Pediatrician
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, diaper rash will persist. If you see no signs of improvement after a few days, you should see a pediatrician. They will be able to prescribe stronger, medicated products to help heal the skin.
If the rash shows signs of infection or looks very severe, you should also seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Correctly using diaper cream can effectively treat diaper rash. It can also help prevent any further outbreaks, leaving your baby’s skin smooth and rash-free. Including diaper cream in your baby’s daily routine will give you the best results, as well as choosing a good product. Even when the skin has healed, regularly applying cream can protect the skin from further rashes.
At Dr. Talbot’s, we are committed to supporting your family’s health using effective, natural products. Our mom blog and wellness blog are ready to give you advice on all the problems parenting throws at you.
FAQs
Do I apply cream every time I change a diaper?
If your baby has sensitive skin, you should apply it after every change. Otherwise, you can apply it at nighttime or at the first signs of redness.
Can I use diaper cream on unbroken skin?
Yes, it will form a protective barrier to keep the skin free from moisture.
Should I wipe off old cream before reapplying?
You should gently remove any excess cream before applying fresh cream. Be careful not to scrub as this will irritate the skin further.
