What is Desitin? Uses, warnings & side effects

What is Desitin? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025

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Desitin overview

BRAND NAMES:

Aquaphor Healing Cream Baby, Aquaphor Healing Paste Baby, Balmex Adultcare, Balmex Diaper Rash, Boudreaux's Butt Paste, Cozima, Desitin Daily Defense Creamy, Desitin Maximum Strength Original, Desitin Original, Diaper Rash, Dr. Smith's Adult Barrier, Dr. Smith's Diaper, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Diaper Rash Creamy, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Zinc Oxide, Good Sense Diaper Rash

Generic Names:

Desitin

Uses:

Treats and prevents diaper rash.

Therapeutic Classes:

Protectant, Dermatological

Forms:

Cream, Ointment, Paste

How it’s taken:

On the skin

What is Desitin used for?

What form(s) does Desitin come in?

Cream
Ointment
Paste

What are common Desitin dosages?

Tube 57GM of 13%
Tube 113GM of 13%
Tube 57GM of 40%
Tube 113GM of 40%
Jar 454GM of 40%

Desitin images - What does Desitin look like?

Desitin
28gm of 40% tube
Desitin
57gm of 13% tube of cream

How to take Desitin

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Clean the baby's diaper area with mild soap and water. Allow the skin to dry before you apply the medicine and put on a new diaper.
Apply the medicine to the diaper area every time you change the diaper. Use this medicine any time the baby might be in a wet diaper for a longer time, such as at nap time or overnight.
Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Apply the medicine to the diaper area every time you change the diaper. Use this medicine any time the baby might be in a wet diaper for a longer time, such as at nap time or overnight.
Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Clean the baby's diaper area with mild soap and water. Allow the skin to dry before you apply the medicine and put on a new diaper.
Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.

What to do if you miss a dose of Desitin

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Desitin contraindications - Who shouldn't take Desitin?

Do not use this medicine if your child has had an allergic reaction to zinc oxide. Do not use on deep or puncture wounds, cuts, or infections.

Desitin warnings

Call your doctor if the diaper rash gets better and then comes back.
Call a poison control center right away if anyone accidentally swallows the medicine.
If the diaper rash symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Desitin interactions & what to avoid when taking Desitin

Check with your doctor to find out if you can use other skin care products on the treated skin areas.
Call your doctor if the diaper rash gets better and then comes back.
Call a poison control center right away if anyone accidentally swallows the medicine.

Desitin side effects - How does Desitin make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing