Nappy-rash crops up for almost every baby, but the right cream can soothe, heal, and protect delicate skin. Below are five of the best nappy creams and barrier balms you can buy in the UK this year, plus a quick buying guide.
What to Look For in a Nappy Cream
- Zinc oxide or lanolin – forms a moisture-blocking barrier
- Fragrance-free – less chance of irritation
- Hypoallergenic – gentler on sensitive skin
- Natural soothers – calendula, chamomile, beeswax
- Thick but breathable texture – ideal for overnight use
Top 5 Nappy Creams & Barrier Balms (2025)
1. Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment
A go-to everyday ointment. Pro-vitamin B5 supports skin recovery while a breathable film keeps moisture away. It spreads easily, isn’t greasy, and contains no fragrances or preservatives.
Buy it: Boots
2. Weleda Calendula Nappy Change Cream
Thick, 100 % natural, and packed with zinc oxide plus calming calendula & chamomile. Parents love it for overnight protection and for soothing red, broken skin. Mild herbal scent only from the botanicals.
Buy it: Weleda
3. Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream
The classic grey tub. Very thick and long-lasting with zinc oxide plus benzyl alcohol to calm soreness. Great for stubborn rashes and doubles up for minor cuts & burns. A budget hero.
Buy it: Boots
4. Childs Farm Nappy Cream
Light, easy to spread, and dermatologist-approved for sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Aloe vera and shea butter keep skin soft without a greasy film. Perfect for day-to-day prevention.
Buy it: Childs Farm
5. Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Baby Barrier Cream
A luxury, 100 % organic option. Shea butter, beeswax, and calendula form a rich yet breathable layer. Light floral scent from natural oils. Pricier, but fans love the clean, high-quality ingredients.
Buy it: Neal's Yard
Quick Comparison Guide
| Concern | Best Pick |
|---|---|
| Everyday protection | Bepanthen |
| Organic & natural | Weleda or Neal’s Yard |
| Budget-friendly | Sudocrem |
| Sensitive skin | Childs Farm |
| Overnight staying power | Sudocrem or Weleda |
Final Thoughts
Apply a thin layer at every change and you’ll beat most rashes before they start. If one product doesn’t suit your baby, switch – every little bottom is different.