How fast can desitin (zinc oxide diaper cream) work?

Dependent on cause: Desitin (zinc oxide diaper cream) is essentially a skin protectant used to treat or prevent skin breakdown from irritants like urine in sensitive areas.Desitin (zinc oxide diaper cream) is great for treating mild diaper rash to other skin fold, moisture-related problems. If you are treating regular diaper rash and it is mild, expect it to take 2-3 days to settle down. If it is more severe and tender, it can take up to a week to finally quiet dow.