BEPANTHEN NAPPY CARE OINTMENT

Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment is a dexpanthenol (pro-vitamin B5) enriched barrier and healing ointment for the prevention and treatment of nappy rash (irritant contact dermatitis). It forms a breathable, transparent protective barrier against moisture and irritants while actively supporting skin regeneration through dexpanthenol’s role in skin cell development. Free from fragrances, preservatives, colourants, and antiseptics, it is suitable for newborns and sensitive skin from day one. Apply a thin layer at every nappy change, especially at bedtime. Also used for sore nipples in nursing mothers and minor skin injuries. Contains almond oil (refined), lanolin, and paraffin. Warning: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. Discontinue if irritation occurs. Keep out of reach of children.
Description

BEPANTHEN NAPPY CARE OINTMENT

PRIMARY USES

1. Protection and Prevention of Nappy Rash (Irritant Contact Dermatitis)
Primary Use: Provides a breathable, transparent barrier cream that protects baby’s delicate skin from irritants and friction that can cause nappy rash, while aiding natural skin recovery through the active ingredient dexpanthenol (pro-vitamin B5) .
How it helps: For the pediatrician and dermatologist, newborn and infant skin is thinner, more permeable, and has a higher pH level compared to adult skin, making it highly susceptible to irritant contact dermatitis from prolonged contact with urine and faeces . Bepanthen works in two ways: it forms a protective lipid film on the skin surface, shielding it from external irritants and moisture loss, while dexpanthenol (50 mg/g) is converted in the skin into pantothenic acid, which supports the development and regeneration of skin cells. A clinical study demonstrated that using Bepanthen at nappy change leads to a lower incidence of nappy rash. For the parent, this means a gentle, effective product that can be used at every nappy change to both protect against and treat nappy rash.
2. Gentle Care for Newborn and Sensitive Skin
Primary Use: Formulated without fragrances, preservatives, colourants, or antiseptics, making it gentle enough for daily use on the most delicate skin from birth.
How it helps: For the dermatologist, minimising chemical exposure is essential for maintaining the skin barrier function in infants. Bepanthen’s minimal ingredient list eliminates all common irritants and allergens found in many nappy creams. The water-in-oil formulation seals in the skin’s natural moisture, providing optimal conditions for gentle skin recovery without drying out the baby’s delicate skin . For the parent, this provides a safe, reliable nappy care product that can be used with confidence from the very first day.
3. Aids Natural Skin Recovery and Healing
Primary Use: Accelerates the healing of existing nappy rash through the skin-regenerating properties of dexpanthenol, which supports the development and regeneration of the skin, while the protective base prevents further irritation from continued exposure to urine and stool .
How it helps: For the general practitioner and dermatologist, once a nappy rash has developed, treatment requires both removal of the cause (irritants) and active support of skin healing. Bepanthen’s dexpanthenol component promotes skin regeneration, while the protective base provides an optimal moist healing environment and shields the damaged area from further irritation . The ointment is non-sticky and easy to apply, offering additional comfort for the baby during nappy changes . For the parent, this means a single product that both treats existing rash and continues to protect the skin from further damage, simplifying the nappy care routine.
4. Nappy Rash Prevention in High-Risk Situations
Primary Use: Particularly important for use at bedtime when the nappy is worn for the longest period, as well as during episodes of diarrhoea, teething, antibiotic use, or weaning when the risk of nappy rash is increased .
How it helps: For the paediatrician and child health nurse, certain situations increase the risk of nappy rash, including premature birth, illness, recovery from vaccination, diarrhoea (which may be caused by certain medications or change in diet), weaning, and hereditary eczema . Bepanthen forms a protective barrier that helps shield the skin from the irritants in urine and faeces during these vulnerable periods. For the parent, this means extra protection for their baby when they need it most, reducing the likelihood of nappy rash developing.

SECONDARY USES

1. Breastfeeding nipple care for nursing mothers: For lactating mothers experiencing sore, cracked nipples, Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment can be applied to the nipples after each feeding to soothe and promote healing. The ointment should be wiped off carefully and completely before the next feed .
2. Promotion of skin regeneration in minor injuries: For minor skin injuries such as small scrapes, minor burns, superficial wounds, or chafed skin, the dexpanthenol formulation supports the regeneration of skin tissue and helps prevent dryness and cracking .
3. Management of dry, chapped skin outside the nappy area: For dry, cracked, or irritated skin elsewhere on an infant’s or adult’s body, the moisturising and healing properties of Bepanthen can be applied as a gentle emollient.
4. Protection around feeding tubes and stoma sites: The protective barrier properties of the ointment can be used on the skin around feeding tubes or stoma sites to protect against leakage-related irritation from gastric contents.
5. Adult incontinence-associated dermatitis: For adults with incontinence, Bepanthen can be used as a barrier and healing ointment to protect against incontinence-associated dermatitis, providing similar protective and reparative benefits as in infants .
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. BASIC IDENTIFICATION ATTRIBUTES

  • Device Type: Topical barrier and healing ointment for nappy rash and minor skin conditions
  • Brand: Bepanthen
  • Designation: Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment, Bepanthen Nappy Rash Ointment
  • Key Active Ingredient: Dexpanthenol (pro-vitamin B5) – 50 mg/g 
  • Other Key Ingredients: Purified water, lanolin (wool fat/wool wax alcohol), liquid paraffin, white soft paraffin, almond oil, white beeswax, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol 
  • Unique Feature: Free from fragrances, preservatives, colourants, and antiseptics ; clinically proven to reduce incidence of nappy rash; water-in-oil formulation seals in natural moisture

2. TECHNICAL & PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES

  • Physical Form: Homogenous, opaque, slightly yellowish ointment 
  • Texture: Non-sticky, easy to apply, spreads easily 
  • Dexpanthenol Concentration: 50 mg per gram 
  • Mechanism of Action (Barrier): Forms a breathable, transparent protective film and a fine lipid film on the skin surface 
  • Mechanism of Action (Healing): Dexpanthenol is converted to pantothenic acid in the skin, supporting skin cell development and regeneration 
  • Breathability: The barrier film allows oxygen exchange and water vapour transmission
  • Visibility: Transparent upon application; does not obscure the skin
  • Removal: Easily removable with standard baby wipes or warm water
  • pH: Skin-friendly and non-irritating
  • Allergen Information: Contains lanolin and refined almond oil. The refining process removes allergy-causing almond proteins . However, those with known nut allergies should consult a doctor before use .
  • Available Sizes: 30g, 100g 
  • Shelf Life: Typically 36 months from manufacture date; once opened, use within 12 months

3. PHYSICAL & OPERATIONAL PROPERTIES

  • Preparation: Squeeze a small amount onto a clean finger or directly onto the skin
  • Application Instructions: After cleaning and thoroughly drying the nappy area, apply a thin, even layer of ointment to the entire area covered by the nappy (buttocks, genitals, groin folds, inner thighs). Use at every nappy change for prophylaxis. For treatment of existing rash, apply a slightly thicker layer. For breastfeeding mothers, apply to nipples after each feed and wipe off before the next feed .
  • Storage Conditions: Store below 25°C  in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not freeze. Keep tube tightly closed when not in use.
  • Portion Size: A thin layer covering the entire nappy area. A 100g tube typically lasts 4-6 weeks with daily use.

4. SAFETY & COMPLIANCE ATTRIBUTES

  • Allergens: Contains lanolin and refined almond oil. Free from fragrances, preservatives, colourants, and antiseptics . No known common topical allergens beyond these components. Individuals with known allergies to lanolin or almonds should consult a doctor before use .
  • Ingestion Risk: Not for oral consumption. If a small amount is ingested, generally non-toxic.
  • Eye Irritation: Avoid direct contact with eyes. If ointment gets into eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  • Skin Safety: Suitable for use on newborns and sensitive skin from the first day of life. Dermatologically tested. Discontinue use if allergic reaction (redness, swelling, itching) occurs, though this is extremely rare.
  • Wound Healing: Suitable for application to minor wounds including chafed, cracked, or split skin .
  • Quality Assurance: Manufactured under GMP by Bayer . Subject to rigorous quality control and dermatological testing.
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

  • For external use only: Bepanthen Nappy Care Ointment is intended for topical application to the skin only. Do not ingest. Do not apply to deep, bleeding, or infected wounds without medical advice.
  • Allergic reaction (rare): Although the formulation is free from common allergens, discontinue use immediately if signs of allergic contact dermatitis develop (redness, swelling, intense itching, blistering, or weeping). Consult a paediatrician or dermatologist.
  • Eye contact: If the ointment accidentally enters the eye, rinse thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for several minutes. Seek medical advice if irritation persists.
  • Ingestion: If a large amount of ointment is swallowed, seek medical advice. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a medical professional.
  • Nut allergy caution: Contains refined almond oil. While allergy-causing proteins are removed during the refining process, those with known nut allergies should consult a doctor before use .
  • Lanolin sensitivity: Contains lanolin. Individuals with known lanolin sensitivity should consult a doctor before use.
  • Do not use it as a substitute for medical treatment of severe rash: If the nappy area develops severe rash with blistering, weeping, bleeding, pustules, or if the baby develops a fever, seek medical attention immediately. These may be signs of bacterial or fungal infection (e.g., Candida albicans) requiring additional treatment.
  • Keep out of reach of children: Store the tube in a location where babies and young children cannot reach it to prevent accidental ingestion or application to the eyes.

2. FIRST AID MEASURES

  • Allergic skin reaction (rash, redness, itching, swelling): Discontinue use immediately. Gently wash the affected area with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Apply a cool compress if itching is severe. Consult a paediatrician or dermatologist if symptoms persist or worsen.
  • Eye contact: Rinse the affected eye(s) immediately with plenty of clean, lukewarm running water for at least 15 minutes, holding the eyelid open. If redness, pain, swelling, or visual disturbance persists after rinsing, seek ophthalmologic advice.
  • Ingestion (small amount): If a baby licks a small amount of ointment, no specific treatment is usually required. Offer a drink of water or milk. Monitor for any signs of gastrointestinal discomfort.
  • Ingestion (large amount): If a significant amount is swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Seek medical advice immediately. Contact a poison control centre or emergency department. Be prepared to describe the product and approximate amount ingested.
  • Application to deep or infected wound: If the product is applied to a deep, bleeding, or clinically infected wound (signs include purulent discharge, increasing pain, spreading redness, fever), clean the wound gently and seek medical advice.

3. FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

  • Flammability: Contains paraffin and other hydrocarbon-based ingredients, which are combustible. The product will burn if exposed to an open flame or high heat source.
  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚). No special restrictions apply.
  • Fire Response: For small fires, use an appropriate extinguisher. For larger fires, evacuate areas. Burning ointment may release toxic fumes including carbon monoxide and acrid smoke. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.