When To Use Diaper Cream On A Newborn (Mom of 2 Answers)

Are you wondering when to use diaper cream on a newborn? No worries, I have been there and will help you in this blog post. 

Diaper rash is a common problem that many newborns experience. As a mom of 2, I have seen my fair share of diaper rashes. Using diaper cream or ointment can help prevent, treat, and soothe baby’s skin. Prevention is always the best way to protect baby’s delicate skin, but parenting is an adventure and these things happen. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore when it’s appropriate to use diaper cream on a newborn based on my experience having two little ones. 

However, many new parents may wonder when they should start using diaper cream or ointment on their newborns.

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How I Prevented Diaper Rash In Baby’s Diaper Area

If you are looking for a quick answer because baby is uncomfortable right now, come back to this part. You have to deal with the skin irritation right now. 

1. Frequent Diaper Changes

But, the absolutely best way to avoid severe diaper rash is to prevent it in the first place. Preventing diaper rash in our home involved frequent diaper changes as a first step. This is not easy for tired parents to keep a constant eye to avoid baby sitting in a poopy diaper for too long. A duty diaper plus too much time is a recipe for disaster. 

2. Checking Your Diaper’s Ingredients

With my first child, I was not as aware of product ingredients and how they can have an effect on diaper dermatitis. We went through a couple of popular diaper brands and found one that worked overall. With our second child, now armed with much more knowledge about the importance of higher quality ingredients, we opted for diapers with more natural ingredients. Our second baby’s sensitive skin seemed to appreciate this. We opted for these disposable diapers. They are made with more eco-friendly and less potentially toxic, and organic ingredients. 

3. Checking Baby’s Diet

I know you’re probably questioning my use of the word “diet”, but this is very important. 

With our first child, I breastfed from birth to 3-4 months. I quickly realized the connection between what I ate and how it could potentially increase the chance of baby’s diaper rash. The same happened when I breastfed our second child for 24 months. 

When we used formula after the 4th month with our first, he would have a reaction if the formula did not agree with him. We learned this can be one of the causes of diaper rash. 

4. Use A High Quality Diaper Ointment

With our first child, we used what everyone else was using. All the popular diaper creams and ointments which land on baby registries. But, with our second, we fell in love with the Earth Mama Organic Diaper Balm. It truly worked miraculously on every diaper rash and tender skin. We’ve since recommended it for so many new parents. 

If it would’ve been made at the time, we would have also used Erin’s Faces Tamanu Balm as a preventative measure in for diaper rash. It came out last year and we’ve loved it for rashes in sensitive places that kids may get when toilet training. It is also great for allergic reactions and bug bites. A true multipurpose must have for the family.

Here’s when to use diaper cream on a newborn to prevent diaper rash irritation: 

#1. Use diaper cream from the first diaper change 

As soon as you start using diapers on your newborn, you should also start using diaper ointment. Even if your newborn doesn’t have a rash yet, using a diaper ointment can help prevent one from developing. Using a moderate layer or product on your baby’s bum can help provide a moisture barrier to prevent a rash before it even starts. 

Using this straight away also helps you determine if the diaper balm you chose works well with your baby’s skin. 

#2. Use diaper cream at every diaper change

To prevent diaper rash, it’s important to use diaper cream at every diaper change. Applying a thin layer of diaper ointment to your baby’s bottom will help protect their skin from moisture and irritations when the skin is clear. When there is an active irritation or small red bumps, you may want to use a thick layer of diaper cream and a fresh diaper.

#3. Use diaper cream during diarrhea or teething

If your baby has diarrhea or is teething, they may be more prone to developing diaper rash. In this case, it’s a good idea to use diaper cream at every diaper change, even if your baby doesn’t have a rash yet. If you are wondering what months of age you will start dealing with teething issues, this is one of my favorite books that was tremendously helpful. 

Other tips to prevent diaper rash on baby’s skin: 

Fragrance-Free Soap 

Giving your baby a bath is exciting and a great way tot connect with the new addition in your home. But opting for a mild soap or fragrance free soap can help prevent ending up with irritated skin. If you’d like a baby wash with a small amount of fragrance to sooth both baby and mom, choose one with essential oils. We used this one and still do to this day. 

Choose Sensitive Baby Wipes 

With our second child, we went through a few brands of baby wipes to see which did not leave her with a diaper rash. Sometimes we even used warm water and a soft washcloth instead of a wipe especially if the area was irritated. 

The wet wipes we most often purchased were Water Wipes. They can be purchased at many stores including Target and Walmart and did not bother her at all. 

In conclusion, using diaper ointment is an essential part of newborn care, and it’s important to start using it from the first diaper change as a protective barrier.  By using diaper cream at every diaper change and when your baby has a rash or other risk factors, you can help prevent and treat diaper rash and keep your baby’s bottom healthy and comfortable.