Types of Rash Ointments

A rash can rear its ugly head at any time for a variety of reasons. When skin becomes red, itchy and inflamed, it can bring about discomfort and outright misery in the afflicted individual. Pharmacies sell a staggering variety of rash ointments, but sometimes a person feels overwhelmed at having to choose what he thinks may help the most.

Zinc Oxide

• Zinc oxide features prominently in many diaper rash formulas and is a common ingredient in skin relief products. Used to treat rashes, burns and other skin irritations, zinc oxide acts as a sticky skin barrier, protecting the skin from external irritants and excessive moisture. This type of rash treatment can be found at your local pharmacy and is available in ointments, creams, powders and more.

Aloe Vera

• Extracted from the stalks of aloe vera plants, aloe vera creams and ointments can soothe burns, rashes and other skin irritations. These ointments can accelerate the healing of skin wounds and irritations and reduce the pain associated with these injuries. Aloe vera can even be found in many food products. Rarely, some people have allergies to aloe, so use caution when selecting a rash ointment.

Vitamins A and D

• Ointments made with vitamins A and D have become increasingly common among skin rash treatments. Ointments created with these ingredients create a barrier to protect the skin, thus allowing it to heal. Recommended for use with rashes, chaffed skin and other conditions, Vitamin A and D ointments are generally very safe and interact with few medications.

Hydrocortisone

• An anti-inflammatory product, hydrocortisone possesses only a low-powered dose of medicine. This makes it safe for over-the-counter sale and self-administration without doctor supervision. Hydrocortisone will block the immune system’s reaction to an allergen and help relieve rashes and itching associated with inflamed or cracked skin. A patient can purchase it in ointments, creams, gels, lotions and more.