Diapers, natural diaper rash

Liquid alkanes of higher molecular weight behave as emolhents (skin softeners) when applied to the skin. An alkane mixture known as mineral oil is sometimes used to replace natural skin oils washed away by frequent bathing or swimming. Petroleum jelly (Vaseline is a well-known brand name) is a semisolid mixture of alkanes that is used as both an emollient and a protective film. Water and water solutions such as urine don t dissolve or penetrate the film, and the underlying skin is protected. Many cases of diaper rash have been prevented or treated this way. 

Zinc oxide occurs in nature as the mineral zincite, and can be prepared from zinc metal by vaporization and oxidation. It can also be prepared from franklinite or zinc sulfide. It is a very fine, odorless, amorphous, white or yellowish white powder. Zinc oxide has a mild astringent, protective and antiseptic action, and is usually formulated into ointment, paste or lotion vehicles. It is used widely in the treatment of dry skin and disorders such as acne vulgaris, prickly heat, insect bites, ivy poisioning, diaper rash, seborreha, impetigo, and psoriasis. It is also contained in some simscreens. 

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