Best Diaper Rash Cream in India – A Complete Guide

Looking for the best diaper rash cream in India and do not know which one to settle down on? Don’t worry! I have got you covered. Read this article to learn all about the best diaper rash cream, detailed reviews of the best nappy rash creams and a handy guide on how to choose a rash cream and how to treat nappy rash successfully.

The last thing you want to see on the bum of your tiny little baby is a red rash caused by diapers. It burns and hurts the little baby so much that the only way to prevent it or relieve it by the use of the best baby rash cream absolutely essential. 

However, the market is flooded with baby products, and a diaper rash cream is no exception to it. The sheer number of choices in the market will leave you confused about which one to zero down on and which cream is, in fact, the best diaper rash cream for babies in India. 

That is why I have decided to write this article. If you have read my article on ‘baby essentials for the first 3 months,’ you would know that I love trying out different products, and over time, I have tried out several diaper rash creams, discussed with other new-moms and finally compiled a list to help you out. 

Of course, what you need to know before you start reading about the best diaper rash cream in India is that the best way to prevent a diaper rash is by using a quality-diaper from one of the best diaper manufacturers in India. 

Read all about the best diaper for baby in India here. 

Best Diaper Rash Cream – Quick Overview

I get it! You are a super busy mom and have no time to read an article that runs into a few thousand words. You simply want an answer to your question on the best nappy rash cream. So here goes – 

Which is the best diaper rash cream in India?

Based on my review, here is a quick summary. Choose one that meets your needs – 

Best Diaper Rash cream India (Overall) – Desitin Diaper Rash Cream

Best Diaper Rash Cream for newborns – Sudocrem Skin Cream

Best Natural diaper rash cream – Mustela Diaper Rash Cream

Best Cheap Diaper Rash Cream – Himalaya Diaper Rash Cream

Best Rash Cream for protection only – B4 Nappi Cream

Best Baby Diaper Rash Cream- Comparison Chart

This comparison chart is perfect for those looking for a quick overview of all the products listed in this article. You can toggle based on any of the fields mentioned below to settle down on the best baby rash cream in India for your baby. 

Brand Name	Image	Quantities in which available	Price range	Check price on Amazon
Desitin		113g	$$$	Click here to check latest price
Sudocrem		30g, 60g, 250g	$$	Click here to check latest price
Sebamed		100ml	$$	Click here to check latest price
Himalaya		50g	$	Click here to check latest price
Balmex		113g	$$$	Click here to check latest price
Mustela		50ml, 100ml, 150ml	$$	Click here to check latest price
Cetaphil		70g	$$	Click here to check latest price
Aquaphor		99g	$$$	Click here to check latest price
B4		75g	$	Click here to check latest price
Pigeon		50g	$	Click here to check latest price

Do you need a diaper rash cream?

In essence, any skin rash cream works towards two primary objectives – 

1. Prevention of a rash
2. Cure a rash

Therefore, do not assume that you only need a rash cream as a diaper rash remedy. 

In fact, the biggest reason why you must invest in a high-quality diaper rash cream is to prevent diaper rash altogether. 

Best Diaper Rash Cream in India – Reviews

Desitin Diaper Rash Cream

 This is the best baby diaper rash cream available in the market. The Desitin Diaper Rash cream is widely popular not only in India but all over the world for its outstanding overall coverage and protection against a diaper rash. 

The primary reason why Desitin is popular is that it contains 40% zinc oxide. This percentage is the highest permissible limit of zinc oxide allowed to be used in a cream that is sold without prescription. 

What this means is that the Desitin Diaper Rash Cream with zinc oxide guarantees optimal protection by creating a strong barrier between the baby’s skin and possible irritants. This also ensures that it is a perfect all-night diaper rash cream that will continue to block wetness for up to 12 hours. 

In fact, not only is it powerful as a preventive ointment but works significantly faster than other rash creams when it comes to healing a rash too. 

Plus, given that it is free from any other chemicals usually found in cosmetics and creams such as parabens, phthalates, dyes and that it is also fragrance-free means that it can be used daily on the baby’s skin without worrying about possible side-effects. 

Of course, I must state here that this cream is relatively expensive when compared to other rash creams found in the market. But, unlike most other creams that must be applied in large quantities, even a tiny glob of Desitin is enough to cover the entire bum area of the baby. 

Thus, a 113 gm tube lasts for a substantially longer period and ultimately proves to be cheaper. 

Pros

• Contains maximum zinc-oxide 
• Gives the best barrier-protection
• Provides speedy relief from diaper rash
• Proves to be economical in the long run
• Does not contain added chemicals or fragrance
• Can be used on a newborn baby as well
• Easily available 

Cons

• None

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Sudocrem Skin Cream 

 Now technically, this product is not branded as an anti rash cream but as an overall skin cream that protects against nappy rash, eczema, surface wounds, sores, burns, acne, etc. 

However, that is precisely why this cream works better when it comes to offering both barrier protection and skin healing qualities. It contains zinc oxide to create a barrier, hypoallergenic lanolin to soothe, benzyl benzoate and benzyl cinnamate to heal and benzyl alcohol to disinfect. 

Thus this cream is designed to offer comprehensive skin care and proves to be particularly useful as a diaper rash cream for newborn babies. 

More than its barrier function, I have found this cream to work like magic when it comes to providing relief from diaper rash without drying out the baby’s skin. 

Additionally, what is impressive about this cream is that it is incredibly affordable. Therefore, parents can use it extensively without worrying about the cost. 

However, one of the only minor downsides of this cream is with its tub-styled packaging. The tub-styled packaging may get contaminated if the cream is touched with soiled, unclean hands, and this may, in turn, impact the baby’s skin. I prefer the tube packaging more.

But, if due care is taken, this cream is one of the best and the most economical diaper rash creams available in the market. 

Pros

• Provides comprehensive care
• Protects against diaper rash effectively
• Affordably priced
• Ensures speedy recovery

Cons

• Its tub-styled packaging exposes it to the risk of contamination
• Contains added fragrance

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Sebamed Diaper Rash Cream

 The Sebamed baby rash cream works wonders when it comes to healing a diaper rash. Unlike most diaper rash creams that use zinc-oxide, Sebamed uses Micronized Titanium dioxide as its principle barrier-creating ingredient. Additionally, the use of titanium dioxide also ensures faster recovery from rashes as compared to creams with the base of zinc-oxide. 

The cream is further strengthened with the use of natural beeswax and other oils coupled with the help of chamomile soothe the irritated skin and heal the rash and other skin wounds effectively. 

In fact, when I was researching for diaper rash creams, I found that plenty of parents expressed tremendous pleasure with the healing properties of this cream. 

When I used it on my little one, even I found that this diaper rash ointment healed my baby’s diaper rash entirely in less than three days. 

However, in terms of barrier protection, I found the cream not to be as effective as the Desitin baby rash cream. I also had to use large globs of cream to cover the entire bum area. Thus, even though it is much cheaper than Desitin, its generous application may make the Sebamed nappy rash cream more expensive in the long run. Also, the makers of this cream recommend this cream for one month + babies. Thus the cream will not work with newborns. 

Pros

• Comes with top-notch soothing properties
• Ensures rapid healing of the rash
• Promotes skin regeneration
•  Affordably priced

Cons

• Not suitable for newborn babies
• Does not provide strong barrier-protection

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Himalaya Diaper Rash Cream

 The Himalaya baby diaper rash cream is one of the cheapest diaper rash creams available in the market. But that does not mean that it compromises on quality. It delivers terrific performance for its cost. 

This baby nappy rash cream uses all-natural products to provide relief and protection from a diaper rash. Thus, it uses the Yashad Bhasma, i.e. naturally produced zinc oxide to create a barrier from irritants. In addition to this, it uses almond oil to moisturise the baby’s skin, aloe-vera to soothe and heal, and the five-leaved chaste to provide anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. 

I have found the cream to work beautifully on the baby’s skin when applied generously, which means that a 50g tube lasts for hardly any time. But the cream did not work on my baby’s skin when the rash was severe. For a severe rash, I found much better results with the use of Sudocrem or Desitin. 

Nevertheless, this cream is beneficial for the overall nourishment and conditioning of your baby’s skin. Regular use of this product will not result in unwanted side-effects. 

Also, those who use cloth-diapers may find the protection afforded by the Himalaya diaper rash cream sufficient enough and may not need to on higher-end creams. 

Pros

• Made using all-natural ingredients
• Provides excellent nourishment and comfort to the baby’s skin
• Heals rashes effectively
• Cheap
• Suitable for cloth-diaper users

Cons

• Needs to be applied generously to work against severe rashes
• 50g tube exhausts quickly

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Balmex Diaper Rash Cream

 Lo and behold, this cream is expensive! So why is it on this list?

The reason why Balmex features on this list despite its steep price is because of its baby diaper rash treatment speed. The cream works its magic in a matter of hours and works incredibly well even on severe rashes. 

Just like Desitin, this cream also uses Zinc oxide. But it takes its effectiveness a step higher by the addition of Vitamin E and Aloe. The overall combination makes the cream not only useful for healing diaper rashes but also as a means to protect against rashes. 

The Balmex feels lighter on the skin than Desitin, and it comes off far more quickly than Desitin. The overall composition of the cream does not feel like a paste but more like a moisturiser that nourishes the skin. It gently protects the baby’s skin against chafing and wetness.

Of course, all of the beautiful positives of this cream come against a large price tag and therefore must be used only by those that have deep pockets. Moreover, you should also note that the Balmex nappy rash cream is only available on selective online platforms. 

Pros

• Clinically proven to reduce redness in just 3 hours
• Comes with an excellent zinc-oxide barrier 
• Strengthened with aloe and vitamin E for better nourishment
• High-quality product for complete protection

Cons

• Expensive
• Not widely available

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Mustela Diaper Rash Cream

 This cream is comparable with the Himalaya Diaper Rash Cream in as much as 98% of its ingredients are natural. This baby diaper cream is formulated to prevent diaper skin discomfort and employs avocado perseose for this purpose. The diaper rash cream uses the oxeoline of Alcacea to soothe irritated skin and sunflower oil distillate to repair the skin barrier continually. 

Like Desitin, this cream is also free on chemicals such as parabens, phthalates and phenoxyethanol. Plus, the addition of zinc oxide makes this cream effective against wetness. 

What is impressive about this cream that it can be used on a newborn as well. Plus the natural ingredients and fragrance-free formulation make it ideal for everyday use. 

Also, even though this cream is more expensive than the Himalaya Diaper Rash Cream, it does not need to be applied in liberal quantities. A small glob is enough for proper coverage. Additionally, the cream comes off quickly without rubbing. 

Pros

• 98% of its ingredients are natural
• Uses zinc-oxide for barrier protection
• Free from added chemicals and fragrance
• Perfect for everyday use
• Can be used on newborns
• Ideal for overall protection and nourishment of skin
• Provides excellent value for money

Cons

• Less effective barrier-protection than Desitin rash cream

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Cetaphil Diaper Rash Cream

 The Cetaphil diaper rash cream is comparable with the Mustela diaper rash cream in as much as its formulation is based on natural ingredients coupled with the use of zinc oxide. This diaper rash cream is cheaper than Mustela too and yet provides almost the same amount of relief and protection. 

The cream is power-packed with protective ingredients such as chamomile, sunflower seed oil, soybean oil and shea butter. The cream claims to work effectively even on sensitive skin. Its oil-rich formulation allows ample moisturisation leaving the baby’s skin feeling soft. Plus, the cream feels light in weight and spreads easily across the baby’s skin. 

All of the ingredients used in this cream are ethically sourced. The cream is also paraben-free, soap-free and does not contain mineral oil or alcohol. 

However, my only concern with this cream is that it does not offer proper barrier-protection. Just like the Himalaya diaper rash cream, its ingredients are soothing and nourishing but don’t do much when it comes to blocking wetness and irritants from coming in contact with the skin. 

Yes, this cream can be safely used every day, and it will work well provided the diaper is changed every two hours. But for use as an all-night cream, this cream falls well short of the popular Desitin rash cream. 

Pros

• Uses ethically sourced natural ingredients
• Enriched with zinc-oxide for barrier protection
• Effectively soothes skin
• Excellent for use for rash relief
• Affordably priced

Cons

• Inadequate barrier-protection

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Aquaphor Diaper Rash Cream

 I love this brand for how thoughtfully formulated their products are. The Aquaphor baby diaper rash cream is designed to offer a three-fold solution to diaper rash related problems – prevent, soothe and treat. 

The cream achieves this balance perfectly by using a water-base coupled with the use of mineral oil, glycerin and 15% zinc oxide. 

Most creams such as the Cetaphil stated above use about 8% zinc oxide, thereby making them less effective at blocking wetness and chafing. However, the slightly higher zinc oxide content of this cream makes it a better option for those that are looking to buy a diaper rash cream for blockage instead of healing. 

For better blockage, the cream also comes in the Aquaphor Diaper Rash Paste variant, which contains 40% zinc oxide. Similarly, for those that prefer a petroleum jelly barrier, the Aquaphor Healing Cream may prove to be more suitable for you. 

The cream is also preservative and fragrance-free, making it gentler on the skin of the baby. 

In my opinion, this cream is ideal for those looking at a balanced formulation that is not too high on zinc oxide, and that does not rely on all-natural ingredients for its soothing qualities. 

Of course, it is important to note that this cream is more expensive than most competitive market variants and may only be ideal for those with a high budget or limited use.

Pros

• Designed to prevent, soothe and treat diaper rash
• Contains higher quantities of zinc-oxide in comparison to similar variants
• Comes in other variants for specific requirements
• Preservative and fragrance-free
• Ideal for everyday use

Cons

• Expensive

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B4 Nappi Cream

 B4 makes one of the best nappy rash creams in India. Similar to the expensive Aquaphor, B4 also comes with a 15% zinc oxide content. Unlike Aquaphor, this cream is much thicker and forms a protective paste when applied on the baby’s skin. 

The cream is particularly effective at preventing rash, and it does this job for just a fraction of the price of creams like Desitin or Balmex.

In addition to zinc oxide, the cream utilises the good old calendula oil and allantoin to keep the baby’s diaper area moisturised, soft and irritation-free. The formulation makes this cream ideal for use on newborns as well as for regular daily use.

You would also be delighted to know that this cream is readily available online as well as in pharmacy shops in most parts of the country. 

However, one of the downsides of this cream is that it does not work as a remedy for diaper rash in babies. Thus, it should not be used to heal a diaper rash but only to protect the baby’s skin against inflammation. 

Pros

• Excellent barrier-protection
• Ideal for everyday use
• Strengthened with 15% zinc oxide, calendula oil and allantoin
• Cheap
• Widely available

Cons

• Does not heal diaper rash

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Pigeon Baby Rash Cream

 Pigeon is one of slowly gaining popularity as one of the top diaper brands in India, and its diaper cream is also following suit. 

The diaper cream is made using both the popular barrier-protection ingredients – zinc oxide as well as white petroleum jelly and therefore does an excellent job at blocking wetness. 

In addition to it, its moisturising qualities are enhanced by the use of beeswax, aloe vera juice and shea butter. This combination leaves the baby’s skin feeling nourished and soft. The company also suggests that the cream is safe for use on newborn babies. 

However, similar to the b4 Nappi Cream, I find the cream useful only for blocking irritants and not for healing an existing diaper rash. 

Plus, similar to the Himalaya Diaper Rash Cream, this cream also needs to be liberally applied for it to be effective. Plus, its effectiveness at night is minimal. 

Despite these shortcomings, the reason why I have included this cream in this list is for its affordable pricing and compatibility for regular use.

Pros

• Contains petroleum jelly as well as zinc oxide
• Enhanced with oils for moisturising baby’s skin
•  Cheap
• Ideal for everyday use and use on newborns

Cons

• Limited healing qualities

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Frequently asked questions about a diaper rash cream

What causes a diaper rash?

The primary diaper rash causes may be enlisted as follows – 

1. Frequent rubbing of the diaper against the baby’s skin
2. Exposure of baby’s delicate skin to irritants such as moisture, urine, stool, chemicals, etc.
3. Not changing a diaper immediately after a baby poops
4. Infrequent change of diapers
5. Allergies or skin infections

How does a cream protect your baby from a diaper rash?

A diaper rash cream creates a barrier between your baby’s delicate skin and factors that could potentially irritate it such as urine, stool, moisture, chemicals, etc. thereby ensuring that the skin stays protected and healthy. 

That is precisely why a diaper rash ointment can work not only as a cure to a diaper rash but also as a protective measure against it. 

Who should you use a diaper rash cream?

A diaper rash cream must be used on all babies that regularly use a diaper.

Do cloth diaper users also need to use a diaper rash cream?

Unlike a disposable diaper which contains chemicals and technology to absorb urine while keeping the diaper feeling dry, a cloth diaper absorbs the baby’s urine and starts feeling wet much sooner. In fact, traditional langots do not absorb the urine at all and immediately become wet. 

Cloth diaper, unlike disposable diapers, are changed far more frequently which ensures – 

1. That the baby’s bum area is cleaned frequently
2. That the baby’s bum area does not trap much heat

Therefore, the use of a cloth diaper rarely causes a diaper rash. That said, if you plan on using cloth diapers that can hold or absorb some urine, you must use a diaper rash cream. 

Similarly, note that frequently changing cloth diapers can lead to the frequent use of chemical-based baby wipes or baby powder which can cause irritation to your baby’s skin and can result in the development of a diaper rash. That is also why the use of a diaper-rash cream may be advisable. 

Alternatively, if your baby does not poop too frequently, you could avoid the use of cloth diapers and opt for the best diaper for baby in India. 

(Note that during the first two months after the birth of my baby, I only used langots and I did not need to use a diaper rash cream at all. But that was because I would change langots promptly and would use warm water to clean the baby’s bum. I also let the baby’s diaper area air dry every single time to ensure that no moisture gets trapped.)

Can diaper rash be treated naturally?

While the best diaper rash treatment involves the use of a quality diaper rash cream, a natural diaper rash treatment that is often effective is the use of breastmilk or dahi or plain yoghurt on the rash area. 

(Please consult your doctor before taking any action based on the remedies suggested in this post)

Can diaper rash be prevented without the use of a diaper rash cream?

In many cases, you can prevent a diaper rash by – 

1. Using quality-diapers of the best diaper brand in India, such as the Pampers Premium Care Pants.
2. Regularly changing the baby’s diaper after every 2-3 hours and immediately after the baby poops.
3. Not rubbing the baby’s diaper area while cleaning it
4. Avoiding the use of chemical-based baby wipes and using clean, warm water instead
5. Letting the baby’s diaper area air dry completely before putting on a new diaper
6. Giving the baby some diaper-free time every day

Following the above techniques will allow you to minimise on the use of a diaper rash cream. Also, if you follow the above recommendations, you could simply use the Vaseline White Petroleum Jelly on the baby’s diaper area instead of a diaper rash cream.

Final Word

A diaper rash can cause tremendous burning and pain to your baby. Especially during the newborn phase, you should take appropriate care by not only using the best diaper for a newborn baby but by also using a powerful diaper rash cream like the Desitin Diaper Rash Cream. 

Disclaimer: This post, is in no way, intended to substitute or complement medical advice. Please consult your paediatrician for specific medical advice. Consulting a paediatrician is also recommended if the diaper rash creams cause any discomfort to your baby.