What is zinc ointment?

Zinc ointment has been around for decades and is a trusted skincare product used by young and old alike.
Its primary active ingredient is zinc oxide — a mineral renowned for its protective, soothing and restorative properties.

The power of zinc oxide

Zinc oxide forms a soft, breathable layer on the skin that shields it from external stressors like moisture, friction and irritation. This allows the skin a chance to heal naturally and prevents further aggravation.

Additionally, zinc oxide has mild antibacterial benefits, making it ideal for products that support vulnerable skin — such as nappy rash creams, healing balms and sun protection. At Petit&Jolie, zinc oxide is used in both the nappy rash cream and the sunscreen.

In short: zinc oxide calms, protects and restores the skin — in a natural and effective way.

Zinc ointment, nappy rash cream or diaper cream — what’s the difference?

In practice, “zinc ointment” and “nappy rash cream” are often used interchangeably. A nappy rash cream with zinc oxide is in fact a zinc ointment. However, it’s important to note that not every nappy rash cream contains zinc oxide. Always check the ingredients list.

The main difference between various ointments and creams lies in the percentage of zinc oxide:

• 5–10% zinc oxide → ideal for preventing nappy rash and mild irritation.

• 20% or more zinc oxide → suitable when there is already redness or irritation of the skin.

A higher concentration doesn’t automatically mean a better product — what matters most is how it’s used and the overall balance of the formula. Also note: the higher the zinc oxide content, the thicker and whiter the cream often is, which can make spreading it a bit more difficult.

Is zinc ointment suitable for all ages?

That depends on the formulation. Skincare products intended for babies from birth must comply with stricter cosmetic regulations than products for older children or adults. Therefore: a product that is safe from birth can be used by everyone.

Does a milder formulation reduce effectiveness?

Definitely not. The effectiveness of a zinc ointment is determined by the percentage of zinc oxide and the quality of the other ingredients. A mild, natural formula can be even better for sensitive skin because it offers effective protection without irritating.

Petit&Jolie diaper cream – natural protection with the power of zinc

Petit&Jolie diaper cream is in fact also a zinc ointment. The cream contains zinc oxide for protection and repair, but is enhanced with valuable natural ingredients that give extra care:

• Sesame oil — known for its restorative and soothing properties. This oil contains natural antioxidants such as vitamin E and sesamol, which help protect the skin from external harm. Sesame oil strengthens the skin’s natural barrier without sealing it off, allowing the skin to breathe and stay balanced.

• Beeswax and lanolin (wool fat) — these ingredients soften the skin and create a protective barrier that helps repel moisture and prevent dryness.

Together, these components deliver effective care for a baby’s nappy area, but are also suitable for chickenpox, irritated skin folds and more. On our “Ingredients” page, you’ll find a full description of each ingredient used by Petit&Jolie.

Why is Petit&Jolie’s diaper cream not called “zinc ointment”?

Good question — it could have been called that! But we chose the name diaper cream to clearly indicate what the product is for, rather than just what’s in it. It’s also perfectly usable by older people with sensitive skin in intimate areas.

Through this blog, we want to show that the cream can be used in many ways.

Zinc oxide in sunscreen — not to be confused with zinc ointment

By contrast, we wouldn’t call Petit&Jolie’s mineral sunscreen a zinc ointment. While both products contain zinc oxide, the purpose of the ingredient is entirely different.

In our sunscreen, zinc oxide is used as a natural mineral filter to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. It forms a fine, reflective layer on the skin that deflects sunlight, helping to prevent burning and premature skin ageing.

A zinc ointment, on the other hand, emphasises the soothing and restorative action of zinc oxide — used to ease irritation, reduce redness, and support the skin’s natural barrier.

In other words:

• In sunscreen, zinc oxide offers sun protection.

• In zinc ointment, it offers skin care and repair.

Both applications use the same powerful natural ingredient, but for very different goals.
Petit&Jolie’s mineral sunscreen is therefore not a zinc ointment, but a natural, safe and effective sun protection, specially formulated for sensitive (baby) skin — without chemical filters or harmful additives.