Desitin and Boudreaux are over-the-counter creams used for treating and preventing diaper rash. You may have difficulty choosing between the two creams since they are both popular.
Before comparing the creams, let’s briefly examine diaper rash symptoms and causes.
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What Is Diaper Rash?
Diaper rash is a skin problem that shows up as irritation over diaper-covered areas of a baby’s body. The condition makes babies uncomfortable, especially babies who spend most of their time in diapers.
Factors that increase the risk of diaper rash include:
- Prolonged exposure to moisture, like urine
- Infrequent diaper changes
- Friction between the baby’s sensitive skin and a rough diaper material
- Chemical irritants, like those in wipes or laundry detergents
You should suspect that your baby is suffering from diaper rash if you spot the following signs and symptoms:
- Swollen or puffy skin
- Rough or scaly skin
- Reddish skin
- Baby discomfort
Luckily, Destin and Boudreaux can alleviate these conditions. Below are a few things you should know about the creams.
An Overview of Desitin and Boudreaux
The Desitin cream works by creating a barrier on the skin. The barrier prevents skin irritation from moisture, friction, and chemicals.
The cream also soothes and heals irritated areas. Johnson & Johnson, a multinational healthcare company, manufactures Desitin.
Boudreaux’s full name is Boudreaux’s Butt Paste, which many consider humorous and unique. The product’s unique name refers to a popular fictional character, Boudreaux, of Southern Cajun heritage. Many parents love the cream for its effectiveness.
Desitin vs. Boudreaux: Comparing the Major Features
A good Desitin vs. Boudreaux comparison considers multiple factors that have made the two diaper cream brands popular. Below are some of these creams’ features.
Ingredients
Both Desitin and Boudreaux have zinc oxide as the main active ingredient. Zinc oxide is the active ingredient that forms the protective layer over the skin and heals the skin. Zinc oxide is safe and effective for regular use.
Other diaper rash creams have active ingredients that you should not use frequently. For example, diaper creams with steroids (hydrocortisone) are not suitable for regular use. Regular exposure to steroids thins the skin.
In addition to zinc oxide, Desitin also contains inactive ingredients like:
- Beeswax
- Lanolin
- Fragrance
Boudreaux also contains mineral oil, paraffin, and castor seed oil. The manufacturer mentions a Boudreaux variant free from dyes, preservatives, and talc.
Formulations
Desitin is available in different formulations for specific rash types or preferences. For example:
- Original Desitin is suitable for mild to moderate diaper rash. The formulation has a relatively thick consistency.
- Maximum strength Desitin has a higher zinc oxide concentration than the Original Desitin. This formulation is suitable for severe or persistent diaper rash.
- Rapid relief Desitin contains additional ingredients for soothing the skin. The formulation is easy to apply and suits parents who want instant relief for their baby.
- Creamy Desitin has a smooth texture and thick consistency. These characteristics make the formulation easy to apply and suitable for those who like convenience.
Boudreaux, on the other hand, has the following three main formulations:
- The original Boudreaux Butt Paste targeted mild to moderate rashes. The formulation is thick and paste-like.
- Maximum Strength Boudreaux Butt Paste targets intense diaper rashes and has a high zinc oxide concentration for that purpose.
- Natural Boudreaux Butt Paste that the company markets to parents who prefer natural products. The natural formulation is without synthetic additives like dyes and preservatives.
Both of these products have different formulations for different people. Therefore, you must evaluate your preferences and choose the appropriate formulation.
Texture and Consistency
A careful look at the diaper creams above reveals they come in different textures and consistencies. For example, both Desitin and Boudreaux Butt Paste have thick formulations for those who prefer such.
Effectiveness
Both Desitin and Boudreaux Butt Paste are highly effective at dealing with diaper rashes. The effectiveness is not surprising given that both creams have the same active ingredient – zinc oxide.
Many parents consider other factors, such as their views on natural ingredients and cream paste, when choosing between the two creams.
Unique Features
Desitin is probably unique for its large variety of formulations. Though Boudreaux is famous for its name, many consider its natural formulation unique due to the absence of synthetic additives.
Fragrance
Both Desitin and Boudreaux have formulations with and without fragrances. The fragrances come from additives unavailable in the scent-free cream.
Choose the scent-free creams if your baby’s skin is sensitive. Sensitive skin might react to such additives.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Diaper Rash Cream
Now that you have a good view of Desitin vs. Boudreaux, you can choose either cream for your baby’s rash. Consider the following factors when deciding which cream to use.
Rash Severity
Severe or persistent diaper rashes require higher concentrations of zinc oxide than milder rashes.
Choose the natural Desitin or original Boudreaux if your baby is developing rashes for the first time. Choose the stronger creams if you have been battling rashes for a long time.
Fragrance
Many parents want their babies to smell nice. The manufacturers understand this and provide their clients with cream formulations with different aromas. Read reviews or test different formulations to find the best for your baby.
Cost
Price shouldn’t be the sole determinant when choosing diaper rash creams. You obviously want the best cream for your child.
However, there is no reason to automatically opt for an expensive formulation if a relatively inexpensive one works. According to some people, Desitin is relatively cheaper than Boudreaux if you consider the price per ounce.
Additional Features and Preference
As previously mentioned, some Desitin and Boudreaux formulations have unique features that make them stand out. These features are personal preferences since all the formulations help with diaper rash.
Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews are great places to research products before purchase. Such research is especially necessary for products you haven’t used before.
The two major diaper rash creams have stellar reviews. However, the reviews can help you pick out formulations for specific cases.
Conclusion
The above Desitin vs. Boudreaux discussion clearly shows that both creams are effective at dealing with diaper rash but have a few different features. However, confirm your baby has a diaper rash before buying a medicated cream.
Consult your baby’s pediatrician or any other relevant healthcare professional. Once you confirm the diagnosis, you can purchase Desitin or Boudreaux so your baby can be comfortable again.
