BY RNC Team
Gentle Diaper Cream
This natural diaper rash cream is made with gentle, nourishing ingredients to soothe and protect your baby's delicate skin. Breast milk can also be a wonderful addition for breastfeeding mothers, as it may help calm mild diaper rash when applied topically.
While diaper rash is often caused by prolonged moisture and irritation, some babies may also react to foods or sensitivities passed through breast milk. For breastfeeding mothers, nourishing yourself with a wholesome, nutrient-dense diet and paying attention to any foods that seem to bother your baby may help support healthier skin from the inside out.
5
INGREDIENTS
- ¼ cup shea butter
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- 1 tbsp beeswax pellets
- 2 tbsp non-nano zinc oxide powder
- 1 tbsp bentonite clay
- 3 drops essential oils (optional, lavender or chamomile)
INSTRUCTIONS
-
Mix shea butter, coconut oil, and beeswax in a double boiler or glass bowl over a small saucepan with some water. Bring the water to a boil.
-
Stir occasionally until everything is melted.
-
Wear a well-fitting mask. Remove from heat and whisk in the zinc oxide, bentonite clay, and essential oil (if using).
-
Stir occasionally as it cools down.
-
Pour the diaper rash cream into a glass jar.
-
Store at room temperature, and out of direct sunlight for up to 1 year.
-
Use as needed for diaper rash or for prevention.
TIPS & VARIATIONS
- If you use cloth diapers, omit the zinc oxide, as it can coat the fabric and reduce absorbency.
Some research behind topical breast milk:
- A 2013 randomized trial found that breast milk performed similarly to 1% hydrocortisone cream for mild diaper rash. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23600719/
- A 2023 randomized trial found that applying breast milk helped reduce the occurrence of diaper dermatitis compared with education alone. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38245386/
