Kids are naturally curious and active, but sometimes that means they get into things that leave their skin irritated. One common problem is that red, chafed ring around the mouth, often caused by frequent licking, drooling, or cold weather. The result? An irritated, sometimes painful rash that can be tough to soothe.
Luckily, there’s a quick and effective remedy you can try at home with two over-the-counter items. Here’s how to use double antibiotic ointment and zinc oxide to clear up that chafed skin and get your child comfortable again.
Step 1: Create Your Healing Mix
Combine a small amount of double antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) with a bit of zinc oxide (often found in diaper rash creams). The antibiotic ointment will help fight any bacterial infections that may have started from the irritated skin, while zinc oxide creates a protective barrier that helps to soothe and heal.
Step 2: Apply the Mix at Night
After your child’s nighttime routine, gently pat the mix around the chafed area. Applying it at night works best because it allows the skin to absorb the ointment without interruption, keeping the area protected and healing while they sleep.
Why It Works
- Antibiotic Ointment: Fights off any bacteria that might be aggravating the rash and prevents further infection.
- Zinc Oxide: Known for its protective and soothing qualities, zinc oxide helps shield the skin from moisture, reducing irritation and helping the rash heal faster.
Quick Tips
- Avoid Further Irritation: Encourage your child to avoid licking around the mouth, which can worsen the chafing. Apply a gentle, child-safe lip balm during the day to keep their lips moisturized.
- Repeat as Needed: Depending on the severity of the chafing, you may need to apply this mix nightly for a few days. You should see noticeable improvement fairly quickly.
With this simple remedy, you’ll be able to help that stubborn chafed skin around their mouth heal quickly and comfortably.
