Nappy rash is an uncomfortable and painful skin inflammation that most commonly occurs in toddlers, although it can also affect adults. Oxyplastine, a cream based on zinc oxide, is often recommended to soothe nappy rash. How does it work and how should it be used? Discover everything there is to know about Oxyplastine here.
Oxyplastine, a salve recommended for nappy rash.
Published on March 13, 2025, by Pauline, Chemical Engineer — 5 min of reading
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What are the effects of Oxyplastine on nappy rash?
The nappy rash is a skin inflammation that occurs when the skin is subjected to prolonged contact with moisture, persistent friction or falls victim to a bacterial or fungal infection. This condition is quite common in babies, largely due to the wearing of nappies, promoting an occlusive environment where heat and moisture predominate. Contact with urine and faeces, containing irritating substances, increases the risks of developing nappy rash. Even though these rednesses mainly affect infants, they can also appear in adults, especially those suffering from incontinence, for the same reasons as in children.
The diaper rash is not dangerous but causes bothersome symptoms and can persist and/or worsen if not managed.
To soothe skin prone to nappy rash, it is often recommended to use Oxyplastine, an ointment containing 46% zinc oxide and lanolin, an emollient useful for restoring the integrity of the skin barrier. The key ingredient in this nappy rash treatment is undoubtedly zinc oxide due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. This molecule works by tightening the skin tissues, which limits the absorption of moisture and thus prevents maceration, a factor that can worsen nappy rash. Zinc oxide is also capable of inhibiting certain pro-inflammatory cytokines responsible for irritation and redness.
Furthermore, zinc oxide forms a protective barrier on the skin, thereby reducing friction and preventing the occurrence of new lesions. This barrier also prevents pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi, from coming into contact with damaged skin, which could complicate nappy rash by causing a secondary infection. Finally, the zinc oxide promotes healing by stimulating collagen production, a process essential for repairing damaged skin tissue.
Mechanism of action of zinc oxide.
Adapted from: Oxyplastine. Oxyplastine 46% Ointment (2024).
Oxyplastine can be applied once or twice daily to areas prone to nappy rash. It is suitable for young children and there are no specific contraindications during pregnancy. If the nappy rash does not improve or worsens after three days of applying Oxyplastine, it is recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Advice : The redness of a baby's bottom is often due to the skin being soaked in urine, under the nappy. Therefore, it is necessary to thoroughly clean and rinse the skin with water before applying Oxyplastine.
Sources
HOATH S. & al. Development of Diaper Rash in the Newborn. Pediatric Dermatology (2001).
SCHEINFELD N. Diaper dermatitis: a review and brief survey of eruptions of the diaper area. American journal of clinical dermatology (2005).
TIERNEY N. & al. Diaper Dermatitis: Etiology, Manifestations, Prevention, and Management. Pediatric Dermatology (2013).
HASANPOOR-AZGHADI S. B. & al. A Review Study of Diaper Rash Dermatitis Treatments. Journal of Client-Centered Nursing Care (2018).
CICCONE A. & VARBANOV M. & al. L’érythème fessier, conseils et traitements. Actualités Pharmaceutiques (2020).
Oxyplastine. Oxyplastine 46% Pommade (2024).
