Is Desitin Vegan? What Is Desitin Made Of?

By Anett Rannamets. Updated: April 2023.
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Desitin is not vegan. Desitin is a non-vegan ointment mainly consisting of zinc oxide and cod liver oil. Therefore, it’s not vegan-friendly or cruelty-free. 

Desitin is commonly used as a moisturizer and is a popular skincare cream used for diaper rash. But it also has other purposes. Although Desitin is not vegan, let’s take a closer look at how is it made and why is it popular.

What Is Desitin And How Is Desitin Made? 

Desitin Ointment, also known as a diaper rash ointment, is a skincare cream based on zinc oxide and cod liver oil. The cream, which consists mainly of these two components, is quite popular for rashes.

Zinc oxide is a topical product used as a coating. To protect skin that is superficially damaged by irritation or abrasions. It promotes the healing of chapped skin and diaper rash.

Cod liver oil is a thin, light yellow oil that is extracted from the liver of cod. It consists of easily digestible fat. And contains omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, phosphorus, and vitamin E. As well as high amounts of vitamins A and D.

Although cod liver oil is mainly used as a dietary supplement, it is also common in ointments. It has the ability to heal wounds, relieve pain, and soothe.

Why Is Desitin Used In Skincare?

Desitin is used in skin care because it has deep moisturising abilities. Desitin moisturizes the skin and reduces itching and flaking. It is used to treat or prevent dry, rough, scaly skin and minor skin irritations. Like rashes and skin burns.

Most commonly, Desitin is used to prevent or treat diaper rash. It forms a protective barrier between the skin and the diaper. The barrier helps protect the skin against wetness and excess moisture.

Desitin also promotes skin healing. It reduces redness and irritation on sensitive skin. In addition, Desitin hydrates and softens. Mid-strength formulas are usually used in the prevention of diaper rash. And higher concentrations in treatment.

Although Desitin is commonly used, there are great vegan alternatives. Products that have the same effect without animal components. Even natural ones like coconut oil, sweet almond oil, aloe vera, shea butter, and oatmeal.

To be sure the product is vegan-friendly, we recommend buying from 100% vegan brands.

FAQ About Desitin

Is Desitin Vegan?

No. Desitin is not a vegan ointment. One of the main components of Desitin is cod liver oil, which is extracted from the liver of cod. Therefore, it is not vegan.

What Is Desitin Made Of?

Desitin is mostly made of zinc oxide and cod liver oil.

Why Is Desitin Used In Skincare?

Desitin is used in skin care because it has deep moisturising abilities. It moisturizes the skin and reduces itching and flaking. Desitin is used to treat or prevent dry, rough and scaly skin. As well as minor skin irritations — mostly diaper rashes.

Summary

Desitin, a fairly popular skincare ointment, is mainly used to relieve redness. And most commonly, it is used to treat diaper rash.

Desitin is not vegan because it contains fish liver oil in addition to zinc oxide. However, there are many natural alternatives to use instead. For example, shea butter or sweet almond oil.

These are mostly suitable for children, too. They have a natural origin and are simple in composition. However, be sure to consult your doctor before choosing products to combat redness and rash.

See also: Vegan Skincare Products, Vegan Skincare for Kids

Anett is a passionate journalist, writer, and magazine editor with almost 7 years of experience. Through engaging articles, she brings kinder and more environmentally-friendly choices closer to everybody.