Whether it’s a breakout or merely an infection, skin conditions are sometimes hard to recognize. Some go untreated, some don’t.
But minor or not, it is safest to treat rashes without delay. And that’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you choose the best rash cream on the market.
Keep scrolling and you’ll find all you need to know!
What causes rashes?
Contact dermatitis
The leading cause of skin rashes is contact dermatitis, and it is caused by the skin reacting to something it’s been in contact with.
Often, the rash is oozy and weepy, and the skin tends to be inflamed. Among the most common causes are beauty products, dyes in clothes, poisonous plants, like poison ivy, and chemicals, such as latex and rubber.
Medications
Rashes may be caused by certain medications--either as a side effect or some allergic reactions. Moreover, some medicines, including certain antibiotics, can cause photo-sensitivity and make a person more vulnerable to sunlight.
The photosensitivity reactions appear quite similar to sunburns.
Infections
Infections by viruses, fungi, or bacteria, also cause rashes. But each rash will vary according to the kind of infection. Candidiasis, for instance, is a well-known fungal infection. The rash it causes might itch so badly--it also appears generally in skin folds.
You should consult a doctor whenever you suspect an infection.
Autoimmune conditions
Autoimmune conditions are caused by the immune system attacking healthy tissues. There are lots of them, but just a few can result in a rash.
The lupus condition, for instance, affects many systems of the body, and this includes the skin. It produces a rash that’s shaped just like a butterfly.
What’s a diaper rash?
It is practically easy to identify a diaper rash when you see it-. Most times, it occurs when friction caused by a baby’s diaper results in skin inflammation.
The diaper rash appears as an irritated red patch on the baby's skin, and usually with a little obvious discomfort. But leaving diaper rashes untreated can cause severe infections that lead to bleeding skin or infections in the diaper area.
Diaper rashes can keep your baby up at night, make him cranky, and cause him to cry. And face it, babies need relaxation and comfort to partake in activities that would further aid their growth.
A child's growth increases in proportion to the amount of sound sleep he has at an early age. So, your kid needs the top, best creams for rashes to do away with pain and get enough good sleep.
Why Do I Need a Rash Cream?
Young or old; Infant or adult, the use of a trusted rash cream can go a long way in controlling the spread of rashes in your home.
For mothers with diaper-wearing infants, rash creams will help reduce the stress that comes with keeping their kids restful while they’re suffering from the pangs of rashes. Adults with all kinds of (rash) infections will also find it very helpful.
Creams for diaper rash create a protective barrier between the baby's buttocks and external irritants and can help prevent rashes from developing. The majority of these creams also contain healing ingredients such as essential oils that lighten the skin further.
What factors should I consider before buying a rash cream?
There are a number of factors to keep in mind when selecting the best rash cream. Some are:
What are the ingredients?
Check out the ingredients of the rash cream you’re buying to be sure there are no harsh chemicals or any ingredients that can cause a reaction to your skin.
What kind of rash is it?
Rash creams are recommended for babies suffering from irritation or inflammation around the diaper area. To protect your diapers, use a diaper balm or ointment. But for kids with severe and bad rashes, use a rash paste.
What diaper type do you use normally?
You are unlikely to experience any interference from creams if you use disposable diapers for your babies. However, a cloth diaper will cause the ingredients in certain creams to obstruct cloth fiber and reduce effectiveness (in the cream).
If you’re using a cloth diaper, go for rash creams that contain no zinc oxide or petroleum jelly.
How sensitive is your skin?
The skin of most children is extremely sensitive, so it is important you choose rash creams that contain quite a lot of natural ingredients. You should also check for potential allergens in the cream, such as coconut oil, mineral oil, sunflower oil, beeswax. Allergens like these rarely appear in natural rash creams.
Pro tips for making the best choice?
If you're looking to buy the best rash cream for yourself or your baby, here's a quick checklist to follow:
- Ensure the cream contains mainly natural ingredients and just a few chemicals.
- Go for rash creams with zinc oxide if you’re buying for your baby.
- Creams containing hydrocortisone are highly recommended--they prevent body irritation and keep your skin cool.
- The best creams mostly contain natural healing solutions such as jojoba seed oil, flower extracts, and sweet almond oil.
- Look for products that solve your particular problem.
- Compare creams and read reviews before you buy.
FAQs
Q: Are there rash creams for adults
A: Definitely. Rashes do not only occur with babies--even adults have rashes. And there as many rash creams as there are rashes. Regardless of your age, you can find rash creams to give you maximum comfort and take away displeasure.
Q: Should I apply diaper cream after every change?
A: Yes. If your baby’s skin is obviously sensitive, you should consider using rash cream generously and applying each time you change their diaper. This way, you will help create a barrier that will prevent irritation and keep your baby's buttocks soft and supple.
Q: Why do certain rash creams contain seed oil?
A: Shea butter, seed oils, and essential oils soothe and calm irritated skin naturally. This explains why they are often found in rash creams.