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Choose the right product for you
DESITIN® Daily Defense Cream | DESITIN® Multipurpose Ointment | DESITIN® Maximum Strength Original Zinc Oxide Paste | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  | |
Purpose | Everyday protection + mild-to-moderate rash relief | Skin barrier protection & healing | Intensive treatment for severe or stubborn rashes |
Benefit | Reduces redness quickly while remaining gentle for daily use | Locks in moisture for compromised or sensitive skin | Forms a heavy-duty moisture barrier for overnight healing |
Good for | At first signs of redness or routine daily diaper changes | When skin is irritated, dry, or needs ongoing protection | When rash is intense, raw, or not improving |
Frequency | Every diaper change | As needed for irritation or protection | Bedtime or prolonged wetness |
Severity | Mild to moderate | Mild | Severe |
Prevention vs. Treatment | Both, with stronger emphasis on prevention | Prevention | Treatment |
Active ingredient | 13% zinc oxide | No added zinc oxide, petrolatum-based | 40% zinc oxide (maximum OTC level) |
Texture | Smooth, creamy, spreads easily, wipes off cleanly | Ointment-like, slippery, ultra-occlusive | Very thick, dense, paste-like; stays in place |
Skin sensitivity | Hypoallergenic; fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested | Free of parabens, phthalates, dyes, fragrance, and dermatologist-tested | Hypoallergenic; fragrance-free, pediatrician-tested |
DESITIN® product FAQs
The best DESITIN® product depends on how mild or severe your baby’s rash is.
For everyday prevention or mild redness, DESITIN® Daily Defense Cream forms a breathable barrier and is gentle enough for every diaper change.
For easy, soothing relief that spreads smoothly, DESITIN® Daily Defense Cream is a great everyday go to.
For moderate to severe diaper rash, DESITIN® Maximum Strength Original Paste contains 40% zinc oxide to deliver strong, long-lasting protection—especially overnight.
Most babies benefit from using a diaper cream at every diaper change, especially before bedtime or anytime they may be in a wet diaper longer than usual. Apply a thick, visible layer to help protect skin and seal out moisture. Even when there’s no active rash, a diaper cream designed for everyday use, like DESITIN® Daily Defense Cream, can be used daily to help prevent irritation before it starts, which is especially helpful for babies who are prone to diaper rash.
DESITIN® Maximum Strength Original Zinc Oxide Paste is the strongest option. It contains the maximum amount of zinc oxide available over the counter (40%), creating a thick protective barrier that helps block out wetness and soothe irritated skin, often recommended for severe, stubborn, or overnight diaper rash.
Using your fingers, apply a thick layer to the entire diaper area, as though you were frosting a cake. Try to touch baby’s irritated skin as little as possible.
Be generous in applying DESITIN® products. DESITIN® ointments are safe when used as directed and may be used at every diaper change to help treat and prevent diaper rash.
DESITIN® offers different zinc oxide levels so parents can choose what works best:
DESITIN® Daily Defense Cream: 13% zinc oxide for daily prevention and mild rashes
DESITIN® Maximum Strength Paste: 40% zinc oxide for severe or persistent rashes
Yes. DESITIN® diaper rash products are hypoallergenic, dermatologist‑tested, and free from parabens, phthalates, and dyes, making them suitable for sensitive skin.
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