From the FDA Drug Label
Active ingredients Zinc Oxide 20.6% Penaten is made of Zinc Oxide (20.6%). It functions to decrease diaper rash by providing a barrier on the skin's surface, which protects the skin from moisture and irritants, allowing it to heal.
- The zinc oxide ingredient is the key component in this process. 1
From the Research
Penaten is a diaper rash cream primarily made of zinc oxide, which is the active ingredient that provides a protective barrier on the skin, and its application is recommended to decrease diaper rash, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 2. Zinc oxide is a white, powdery mineral compound created by combining zinc with oxygen molecules. In Penaten, zinc oxide typically comprises 10-40% of the formulation, with the remainder consisting of inactive ingredients like petrolatum, lanolin, and various moisturizers.
Key Components and Function
- Zinc oxide functions by forming a physical barrier on the skin's surface that repels moisture and prevents irritants in urine and feces from contacting the baby's skin.
- This barrier allows the skin underneath to heal naturally while being protected from further irritation.
- Additionally, zinc oxide has mild antiseptic and astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and inhibit bacterial growth that might worsen the rash.
Application and Benefits
- For best results, Penaten should be applied to clean, dry skin at each diaper change, particularly before bedtime when the diaper will be worn for longer periods.
- The cream should be spread in a thick layer over the affected areas without rubbing it in completely, allowing it to form that protective shield.
- Regular application helps prevent diaper rash from developing and treats existing irritation by creating an environment where healing can occur naturally, as shown in studies comparing zinc oxide to other treatments 3, 4.
Safety and Efficacy
- The safety and efficacy of zinc oxide in preventing and treating diaper rash have been demonstrated in various studies, including a comparative study that found zinc oxide to be more effective than talcum powder in preventing irritant contact diaper dermatitis 3.
- Another study showed that a zinc oxide-based formulation was well-tolerated and effective in treating diaper dermatitis complicated by candidiasis 5.
- The most recent study 2 provides further evidence of the safety and efficacy of zinc oxide-based formulations, highlighting their potential as a next-generation natural baby barrier cream.