Dr. Smith's... Not JUST for diaper rash!

Dr. Smiths Review from S.A.F.E.

Does your child have overly sensitive skin?  Having trouble finding an effective lotion or ointment?  Does he/she react to things such as perfumes, hair spray and harsh detergents?  My son broke out in hives as an infant after being held by a friend for two minutes.  It could have been any of three culprits that I mentioned above.  I couldn't wear perfume or use hairspray for years around my kids.

This product is marketed for eliminating diaper rash.  We've been out of diapers for 3 years and I still keep a 2 oz tub handy because of how wonderfully it works as a healing agent.  It's fabulous to use on cuts and on really dry patches of skin.  I believe the 10% zinc oxide is the miracle ingredient in this product. 

Dr. Smith's Premium Blend Diaper Ointment, 2 oz jar, 2 ounces, distributed by Beta Dermaceuticals, Inc., San Antonio, TX.

Active Ingredients include:  ZINC OXIDE 10%
Also Contains:  BEESWAX, LANOLIN, MINERAL OIL, OLIVE OIL, PARAFFIN WAX, PETROLATUM, PURIFIED WATER, THYMOL IODIDE.

For more information, contact:  http://www.doctorsmiths.com/ OR (210) 696-8400.

Are there other benefits to the addition of zinc oxide in a product?  The italicized paragraphs below are taken directly from the following article on LiveStrong.com and I highlighted the points that stood out to me:

 http://www.livestrong.com/article/138323-the-benefits-zinc-oxide-skin/

1. UV Protection - According to Dr. Marilynn Syrett, zinc oxide is one of the safest ingredients for protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays penetrate the skin and damage tissue, speeding up the aging process and drying the skin out. These rays also increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreens containing zinc oxide filter out UV rays, keeping them from penetrating the skin and causing cell damage.
2. Skin Healing - Zinc oxide is also effective for healing the skin. It can be used to heal wounds, reduce the tenderness associated with sunburns and soften chapped skin. Jonathan Moore, DPM notes that people who are zinc deficient typically experience slower wound healing times. When zinc oxide is applied to the wound area, it provides the body with the extra zinc it needs to repair skin cells. Zinc oxide helps keep the wound area moist and clean.
3. Astringent - Lotions and creams containing zinc oxide are effective skin astringents, says Dr. Syrett. You can apply zinc oxide to keep excess oils from forming on the surface. It is sometimes used as an acne treatment--it is believed to reduce the appearance of blemishes and reduce skin irritation and inflammation, reducing the number and severity of acne breakouts.

I can't say enough positive things about Dr. Smith's.  I do prefer the ointment over the cream as I think the thickness ensures it stays on longer.

Last reminder, if the lotion/ointment you currently are using doesn't seem to be effective, reread the ingredients.  Does it contain acetyl alcohol?  Almond or macadamia oils?  Many of the most recommended lotions may contain these ingredients and they may be aggravating your child's condition more than helping it.