Research Note: Honey Used to Treat Diaper Rash

Clinical and Mycological Benefits of Topical Application of Honey, Olive oil and Beeswax in Diaper Dermatitis
N. S. Al-Waili, Clinical Microbiology & Infection,Volume 11, Issue 2, Page 160 - February 2005

Abstract: Twelve infants suffering from diaper dermatitis were treated four times daily for 7 days with a mixture containing honey, olive oil and beeswax. The severity of erythema was evaluated on a five-point scale. Three infants had severe erythema and ulceration, four had moderate erythema, and five had moderate erythema with maceration. The initial mean lesion score of 2.91 ± 0.79 declined significantly (p < 0.05) to 2.0 ± 0.98 (day 3), 1.25 ± 0.96 (day 5) and 0.66 ± 0.98 (day 7). Candida albicans was isolated initially from four patients, but from only two patients after treatment. This topical treatment was safe and well-tolerated, and demonstrated clinical and mycological benefits in the treatment of diaper dermatitis.