DIY: Diaper Rash Salve

Written by Kate Tietje

Growing up, I was used to the “white tube” of diaper cream.  Most parents use That thick barrier cream to protect their baby’s rash.

The thing is, that white cream?  It’s just meant to keep the rash covered so that it doesn’t get splashed with pee or poop too much.  Of course, if they pee, it washes most of the cream off, so you still have to change them frequently.  I tried this type of cream on my oldest a few times but didn’t find it very effective.

Then, I made my first homemade diaper cream.  It goes on clear and uses herbs to actually help heal the rash.  I was skeptical because it wasn’t what I was used to, but — it actually worked!  And quickly!

Since then, I have only used these types of creams.  They’re really salves — oils infused with herbs and solidified with beeswax.  My little ones have even learned to ask for the “cream” because they know it will help them!

This salve relies on a simple combination of herbs.  Calendula, chamomile, and lavender (all dry).  Plus olive oil (sometimes I use apricot oil)  and beeswax.  That’s it!  It’s very easy to make, totally natural, and very effective.  It can be used on other general rashes and sore skin, too.

These herbs are known for their skin-soothing properties.  Calendula is often used because it is gentle enough for babies and helps promote healing.  Olive oil, too, is good for healing skin.  Every part of this is excellent!  I recommend carrying small tins of this with you so you have it if you need it.

If DIYs aren’t your thing, check out Earthley’s Baby Balm, a great, premade, all-natural alternative.

Diaper Rash Salve

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. chamomile
• 1 tbsp. calendula flowers
• 1 tbsp. lavender
• 3 1/2 oz.  (7 tbsp.) olive oil
• 1 tbsp. beeswax

Directions:

Step 1: In a small glass jar, combine the herbs and olive oil.

Step 2: Place this jar in a small saucepan filled with water (halfway up the jar or so).  Turn it on medium-high heat.

Step 3: When the water begins to simmer, remove the jar from the pan and set it aside.  Allow it to steep for 1 – 2 hours.  (I often forget mine overnight.)

Step 4: Strain the oil through a piece of cloth, squeezing it to get all the oil out.  Discard the herbs.

Step 5: Pour the oil into a small saucepan.  Add the beeswax.  Put the pan over medium heat until the beeswax is melted.

Step 6: Pour the finished salve into a 4-ounce jar or two 2-ounce tins (I prefer the smaller tins so I can keep them in multiple places…plus they’re easier to use).

Step 7: Allow to cool completely before putting a lid on and putting it away.

Usage: scoop up a small amount and smear it on your baby’s clean bottom.  Cover the rash and then put the diaper on.  This is cloth diaper safe.  Keep using it at each diaper change until your baby’s rash is healed.  It usually takes 1 – 2 changes for my babies.

What do you find most effective for managing diaper rashes?