Boudreaux’s Butt Paste is a diaper rash treatment that works to soothe and protect irritated skin in the diaper area. Its main function is to create a physical barrier on the skin, shielding it from the irritants that cause diaper rash. The active ingredient responsible for this protective effect is Zinc Oxide, which is formulated into a thick paste.
The Science Behind the Protective Barrier
The primary component of Butt Paste is Zinc Oxide, a mineral compound typically present in high concentrations, ranging from 16% in the original formula up to 40% in maximum strength versions. Zinc Oxide works in two main ways: it acts as a skin protectant and a mild astringent. As a protectant, it forms a dense, physical layer that is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. This barrier prevents irritating moisture, such as urine and feces, from coming into direct contact with the skin.
Zinc Oxide also functions as a mild astringent, helping to shrink and constrict body tissues, which reduces the redness and swelling associated with diaper rash. The paste formulation includes inactive ingredients like petrolatum, mineral oil, and lanolin. These ingredients contribute to the occlusive barrier and help to further soften and moisturize the skin, ensuring the protective layer is thick and stays in place.
Treating Diaper Rash: Proper Application
To effectively treat an existing diaper rash, proper application of the paste is necessary. The first step involves thoroughly cleaning the diaper area, gently removing all traces of urine and stool. Use a soft cloth with warm water or unscented, alcohol-free wipes to avoid further irritation of the sensitive skin.
Allowing the skin to completely air dry is the next important step, as applying the paste to wet skin can trap moisture and worsen the rash. Once the skin is dry, a generous amount of the paste should be applied to the entire affected area. The goal is to create a thick, visible layer, similar to frosting a cake, rather than rubbing it in until it disappears. This thick coating ensures a complete barrier is formed between the skin and the next wet diaper.
This process should be repeated at every diaper change until the rash has completely resolved. Any remaining clean paste from the previous change does not need to be completely wiped away. Simply apply a fresh, thick layer over the existing one to avoid further trauma to the irritated skin. If the rash does not show improvement within seven days, or if it develops open sores, pus, or is accompanied by a fever, a healthcare provider should be consulted, as this may indicate a secondary infection requiring specific medical treatment.
Strategies for Diaper Rash Prevention
Preventing diaper rash involves addressing its main causes, which include prolonged wetness, friction from a tight diaper, and the irritating enzymes found in stool. Increasing the frequency of diaper changes is the most effective proactive step, ensuring the skin is exposed to wetness for the shortest time possible. Thoroughly drying the diaper area after cleaning is a preventive measure, and incorporating diaper-free time, where the skin can air out completely, is beneficial.
Using a thin layer of a zinc oxide barrier cream proactively can help safeguard sensitive skin. This light layer acts as a constant shield against moisture and irritants. Ensuring the diaper fits correctly, neither too tight nor too loose, minimizes friction that can lead to chafing and irritation. Additionally, avoiding harsh soaps or wipes containing alcohol and fragrance can help maintain the natural balance of the skin barrier.
Secondary Uses Beyond Diaper Rash
High-concentration zinc oxide pastes have several other applications due to their protective and astringent qualities. The thick, moisture-repelling barrier is effective in treating minor skin irritations and abrasions in adults and older children. The paste can be used to protect the skin from further friction caused by chafing in areas like the inner thighs or under breasts.
The paste is also commonly used as a protective layer for heat rash, minor scrapes, or to help dry out the weeping associated with poison ivy or similar skin reactions. In these cases, the zinc oxide works similarly to its function on a baby’s bottom, creating an occlusive shield. This shield prevents external moisture and irritants from interfering with the skin’s healing process. These secondary uses leverage the product’s ability to soothe inflammation and provide a durable, reparative barrier.