Aquaphor vs A+D is a comparison between two ointments that do nearly the same job. Both are petrolatum-based barriers that keep moisture off the skin, both prevent diaper rash when used at every change, and neither contains zinc oxide. The differences are in the secondary ingredients, the smell, and the price. Here is how they compare and which tub to keep on the changing table.
Quick Verdict
Buy Aquaphor Baby if you want one fragrance-free ointment for everything: diaper area, dry cheeks, drool rash, cradle cap edges, and chapped hands. It is the better all-round skin product. Buy A+D Original if the ointment is only for the diaper area and you want the best price, because it has more petrolatum, forms a slightly heavier barrier, and costs about half as much per ounce. Babies with a wool or lanolin sensitivity should avoid A+D and patch test Aquaphor.
Aquaphor Baby vs A+D Original at a Glance
| Aquaphor Baby | A+D Original | |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Petrolatum 41% | Petrolatum 53.4%, lanolin 15.5% |
| Other ingredients | Mineral oil, lanolin alcohol, panthenol, glycerin, bisabolol | Cod liver oil, light fragrance, mineral oil, wax |
| Scent | None | Mild, distinctive |
| Texture | Smooth, spreads thin, semi-breathable | Thicker, stickier, heavier film |
| Diaper rash | Prevents and soothes mild redness | Prevents and soothes mild redness |
| Other uses | Face, drool rash, dry patches, chapped skin | Minor scrapes, chapped skin |
| Price | About $15 to $17 for 14 oz | About $8 to $10 for 16 oz |
Ingredients
Aquaphor is 41 percent petrolatum with panthenol and glycerin, which draw moisture into the skin, and bisabolol, a soothing agent from chamomile. It contains lanolin alcohol, a refined derivative. A+D is 53.4 percent petrolatum and 15.5 percent lanolin, with cod liver oil as the source of the vitamins in its name and a light fragrance. A+D is the heavier barrier. Aquaphor is the more skin-conditioning one.
Diaper Rash Prevention
For prevention there is little between them. A thin layer of either at each change keeps urine and stool off the skin. A+D's thicker film lasts a little longer overnight. Aquaphor wipes away more easily at the next change. Neither is a treatment for an established, angry rash. For that, switch to a zinc oxide paste until the skin clears, then go back to your ointment.
Scent and Feel
Aquaphor has no fragrance and almost no smell. A+D has a mild scent from the lanolin and cod liver oil that some parents like and some do not. If you plan to use the ointment on the face or hands, the unscented one is the easier choice.
Beyond the Diaper
Aquaphor is the product pediatricians suggest for dry patches, drool rash around the mouth, chapped cheeks in winter, and sealing in moisturizer for eczema-prone skin. A+D works on chapped skin and minor scrapes too, but its fragrance makes it a weaker pick for irritated facial skin.
Price and Cloth Diapers
A+D is roughly half the cost per ounce. Both are petroleum based and can build up on cloth diapers and cause repelling, so use a disposable or fleece liner with either one.
Who Should Buy Aquaphor Baby
Families who want one fragrance-free ointment for the diaper area and every dry or chapped patch elsewhere.
Check Aquaphor Baby Price on Amazon
Who Should Buy A+D Original
Budget-minded families who want a heavy preventive barrier for diaper changes and overnight.
Check A+D Original Price on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aquaphor Baby different from regular Aquaphor?
The healing ointment formula is essentially the same. The baby version is packaged and labeled for infant use.
Can I use either one at every diaper change?
Yes. Both are made for routine use. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin.
Which is better for a bad rash?
Neither. Use a zinc oxide paste for an active rash and see your pediatrician if it has not improved in two to three days.
