Desitin Diaper Rash Cream Review

Desitin is a common name in baby diaper rash ointments, and I have used it some in the past with my first two daughters, but I found that I liked Dr. Smith's diaper ointment better.

My children all have sensitive skin and would break out with certain diapers, diaper wipes, if I washed the clothes in something other than Dreft, if I used a fabric softener, and I later discovered that they also have GERD (reflux) and multiple food sensitivities. I found that frequent diaper changes, sometimes leaving the area open to air after a soothing bath, and keeping the skin dry was helpful but that my kids often needed something more, and a couple of pediatricians recommended Desitin.

Here's what I like about Desitin:

• original type tends to stay on the skin once applied (creamy version has less zinc oxide and does not tend to stay on as well but stays on better than some ointments like A&D)
• easy to find
• tubes travel well in the diaper bag
• can heal some skin rashes--this can actually be used in other areas (such as under the baby's chin) or for adults
• if it does work, it usually works pretty quickly
• a little can go a long way
• can often find coupons
• average price (this is typically cheaper than Dr. Smiths but more expensive than A&D)

Here's what I don't like about Desitin:

• didn't always work for my children's rashes (we found that the food sensitivity rashes were quite persistent and would appear quickly and almost looked like a BAD yeast infection and then go away just as quickly; Desitin will NOT clear up a yeast infection)
• hard to wipe off and bowel movements tend to stick in it
• cleaning the area can be hard due to the above
• hard to wipe off of my own hands
• can stain clothing
• looks a lot like a lifeguard's nose

My Viewpoint:

Desitin is helpful for some diaper rashes, but for rashes due to food sensitivities/allergies or yeast infections, Desitin is not helpful. Diaper rashes can progress quickly, so excellent skin care and treating the cause of the rash is very helpful. I found Desitin to be better than some diaper rash ointments (A&D) but prefer Dr. Smith's diaper ointment.