Get to the Bottom of Diaper Rashes With This Natural, DIY Cream

The dreaded diaper rash: red, inflamed skin that’s so raw even gentle wipes send baby screaming. But before you reach for the toughest, fastest-acting treatment available, check the ingredients.

Babies are especially vulnerable to chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin, and many popular diaper rash creams contain preservatives (like BHA) and other endocrine disruptors that have been linked to some nasty health issues. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to make your own effective calming ointment using six all-natural ingredients.

A base of nourishing shea butter keeps skin soft and hydrated while aloe vera gel soothes as it helps combat inflammation. Coconut oil, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties, combined with beeswax and bentonite clay (a potent skin salve) all help promote the healing process. Lastly, zinc oxide acts as a barrier to keep little bottoms dry and protected.

DIY Diaper Rash Cream

What You’ll Need

¼ cup shea butter
¼ cup coconut oil
1 tablespoon beeswax pastilles
2 tablespoons zinc oxide powder
1 tablespoon bentonite clay
1 tablespoon aloe vera gel

Instructions

In a double boiler, melt the shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax. Once the beeswax has completely melted, remove from heat and add the remaining ingredients. Mix together and pour into a glass jar. Once the jar has cooled, put cream in the freezer for 30 minutes. Store cream in a cool, dry place and use as needed for up to 3 months.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont