The 7 best chickenpox creams and treatments for effective relief of your child’s skin

When your child contracts chickenpox, it can be very frightening, especially if they're the first child in the family to get it and you will be grateful to have the best chickenpox treatment at the ready. Your little one will suddenly be covered in spots and you'll be wondering how to look after them while they're poorly. But don't panic — nearly all children will get chickenpox at some point in their life, however, it can be very difficult to know which chickenpox treatments will help because there are a few to choose from.

There is no specific treatment for chickenpox but the good news is that there are over-the-counter remedies, which may help your little one to deal with the symptoms and which will help soothe and ease discomfort like fever and itchiness. There are also some tried and tested natural remedies that some people swear by. It's all about what works for your family and things you might want to consider when purchasing chickenpox treatments include, the effectiveness of reliving itching, reducing fever, how easy it is to use, the cost, safety, side effects, and also if it has been recommended by health professionals.

Best chickenpox treatments at a glance:

Best overall chickenpox treatment: PoxClin CoolMousse, £8.39Best chickenpox treatment for fever: Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension, £3.28
Best chickenpox treatment for itching: ViraSoothe Chickenpox Relief Cooling Gel, £10.49
Best natural chickenpox treatment: Aveeno Baby Soothing Oat Bath Sachets, £6.75**
Best topical chickenpox treatment:** E45 Dermatological Itch Relief Cream, £24.50

It is important to find a remedy which will ease your little one's discomfort whether that is itchiness or fever, but remember it won't last forever. Within two weeks, the spots will blister and should naturally crust over and fall off without any need for further intervention, plus any baby rash your child might have should heal too. Then your child will start to become more like themselves as they get better.

Chickenpox is a rite of passage and your little one will recover, it's just a case of finding what works for your child to help them through. This article includes my personal experience with the best chickenpox treatments.

How we chose and tested the best chickenpox treatments

Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in the field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well. For chickenpox treatments we got advice from Dr. Costa, a member of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and Dr Luke Powles, Clinical Director for Bupa Health Clinics.

Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe also often hold great insights as to which products mums really like best and why, helping us highlight the products that meet what you really want.

For the essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awardsshortlist the top products tested, and you can find full reviews from our mum testers provided on the product page. The winners and runners-up for each category then will appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.

When it comes to the best chickenpox treatment, we considered various things such as budget, effectiveness, ease of use and size. Our testers also assess the products based on quality and value for money, and score them out of ten. Their score is used to determine the awards. Find out more about how we test products for Mother&Baby.

 Chickenpox treatment safety

Chickenpox is a common childhood illness, however, it can be uncomfortable and treatment is used to limit the discomfort of fever and itching. Generally, most of the products available for treating chickenpox are safe for use on children, but always check the ingredients so you can be sure there is nothing included which your child might be allergic to.

It is important to know that you should not use ibuprofen to treat fever or pain when your little one has chickenpox. As Dr. Costa, a paediatric consultant, says: "There have been many cases where giving Ibuprofen to someone with Chickenpox has led to the development of a serious bacterial skin condition called Necrotising Fasciitis." He also advises against the use of aspirin, saying: "Do not give your child aspirin, as there is an increased risk of developing Reye’s Syndrome (a rare condition that can lead to swelling of the tissues, including the brain)." Chickenpox is not normally dangerous but if your little one has got chickenpox then you should avoid taking them near to newborn babies, pregnant women or anyone with a weakened immune system. You can use paracetamol (Calpol) to help with pain and cooling creams or gels to soothe itching. It may be possible to use an antihistamine medicine to ease itching, however, to be safe, speak with a pharmacist first. Dr Costa advises: "Traditional creams, like calamine lotion are still the best to help ease the itching and dry the lesions. Chlorphenamine (often sold as Piriton) can also be given to decrease itching and help your child sleep. Cool baths with either baking soda or uncooked oats can also help to ease discomfort."

Types of chickenpox treatments

There are various ways to treat chickenpox and some target the itching, while others target any associated aches or fever. Bupa says that your child shouldn't need any medical treatments, instead products which bring relief from the intense itching. They also suggest wearing light, loose clothes, keeping hydrated and trimming fingernails so they don't damage their skin if they do scratch.

Pain relief: Paracetamol is the best option for pain relief when treating chickenpox and it will also help to bring down any fever. You can use any liquid paracetamol product, such as Calpol.

Topical treatments: There are various options for topical treatments including cooling gels, foam, or cream. They will all work to ease itching and bring some relief as well as helping to prevent scratching. You can also use lotions such as calamine lotion which is drier and will dry on the skin, whereas a cream will be absorbed, as well as a foam.

Antihistamines: If your child is over the age of one then you might be able to use an antihistamine such as Piriton to control the itching. However, it is best to check this with a Pharmacist, or doctor.

Cool baths: As well as topical treatments, it might help your child to have a cool bath, especially an oatmeal bath. Gentle enough for even newborns, an oatmeal bath has healing, moisturising and antioxidant benefits and it will be soothing too.

How to use chickenpox treatments

How you use a chickenpox treatment depends on what you need it for. For pain relief or fever, the best choice is paracetamol and you will need to follow the guidelines on the box according to your little one's age. Typically paracetamol can be given every four hours.

For topical treatments, you will need to apply them as they are required, when the itching becomes too intense, and after a bath. These can normally be applied directly to the skin and gently rubbed in or left on the surface.

Antihistamines will also help itching and these should be given under the guidance of a pharmacist and only once you little one is older than one. Again, ensure you follow the directions on the box.

If you decide to give your little one an oat bath then keep the water cool, and you can either use a ready-made oat mix such as Aveeno Baby soothing oat bath soak, or you can make your own mix. Simply stuff a pair of tights or muslin cloth with half a cup of oats and tie it to prevent any spillages, then dip it into the bath a few times. You can then use the oat-filled cloth to pat your little one's skin, especially on the itchy areas.

How to choose the best chickenpox treatment

Use: Choose the right product for what your little one needs. Consider if they are struggling with the itchiness or the fever and choose the most appropriate product, or perhaps a combination of both such as a topical treatment for itch relief and paracetamol to keep the fever down.

Size: Both pain relief and topical treatments can be expensive so consider the size of the product to ensure you will have enough to see you through.

Ease of use: It is hard enough when your little one is poorly, without difficult treatments to administer. Consider what you need and what is most comfortable for your baby. If they don't like taking paracetamol, there are options such as sugar-free or various brands which might vary in taste. Also consider topical treatments, and how messy they might be and whether cream, foam or gel will be easier for you.

Safety and side effects: Always check the ingredients and ensure there is nothing your little one is allergic to. Always take note of recommendations such as avoiding ibuprofen to make sure you are making the right choice. If you are unsure then always consult your doctor or a pharmacist.

Effectiveness: Look at reviews from other parents to see how well products work and if you have older children you might find that what worked for them will work for your little one too.

Healthcare recommendations: If a doctor or pharmacist suggests a particular product, then choose that one. Also check if treatments have been approved by healthcare professionals.

Cost: Treatments can be expensive especially if you buy a few to try them. Sometimes simple remedies like an oat bath can be just as effective as an expensive cream. If there is a brand that you know you prefer then go for that, but do consider cost and choose treatments that suit your budget.

Do you need a chickenpox treatment?

Chickenpox shouldn't need a medical treatment and most children will get over it without requiring any treatment. Dr Luke Powles, a Clinical Director with Bupa, says: "Many don’t need treatment for chickenpox. Often, symptoms can be managed at home, and you’ll usually feel better after a week or so.  However, if you or your child are struggling with itching, over-the-counter anti-itch creams and medicines, along with cooling gels and cool, wet flannels applied to the skin can help reduce irritation, too."

A topical treatment such as a cream or gel will make them feel more comfortable and relieve the itching, but it won't speed up the course of the infection. Similarly, pain relief, such as paracetamol will lower the fever and help with any aches and pains but it won't treat the infection. Chickenpox will run its course and within two weeks your baby should feel better and more like themselves.

The best chickenpox treatments 2024

How to recognise chickenpox

The NHS website states that the main symptom of chickenpox is an itchy spotty rash which can appear anywhere on the body. Unfortunately, this includes inside the mouth, around the genitals and on the scalp. Depending on your child's skin tone, they may be pink, red or a darker colour. If your child has black or brown skin, it can be harder to spot.

Before the spots appear, your child may begin to feel unwell. It is common for a child to have a high temperature, aches and pains or a loss of appetite. However, each child is different, and they may not have any symptoms at all before the spots appear.

Once the spots appear, they will fill with fluid. It is essential not to try and pop the spots. Although they can be itchy, try to discourage your little one from scratching them as this can leave to scarring.

Your little one will need to stay at home, and if possible, away from other children whilst they have chickenpox — although we appreciate this isn't always possible if you have more than one child. Dr Luke Powles advises: "Try to keep away from public places to help reduce the spread until all your spots have crusted over." This is because chickenpox is highly contagious. Once your little ones' spots have burst and scabbed over, they can return to normal social life. Just be aware that scabs can take a few weeks to disappear.

Is there anything I can do to prevent my child getting chickenpox?

The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine. The chickenpox vaccine is very safe and effective at preventing the disease. Speak to your GP about the benefits of the vaccination. Other than that, it's best to be prepared for when/if chickenpox comes into your home.

How long is the isolation period for chickenpox?

Your child must stay home from when the spots first appear to when they have scabbed over. Your child should not engage in any social activities outside the home or go to school whilst they still have chickenpox spots. Usually, the spots will scab over within a week. If you are unsure whether your child can go to school, contact your GP.

When to contact a doctor about chickenpox?

The NHS advises that most cases of chickenpox can be treated at home and will clear up without needing medical care within 1 - 2 weeks. However it is advisable to see a doctor if the skin around the chickenpox blisters becomes hot, red or painful. Also, see a doctor if you are worried that your little one has become dehydrated. They may have blisters in their mouth and drinking can be painful so if you are worried they are dehydrated get advice. You know your little one best, and if you are concerned that they are getting worse, or you are not sure if it's chickenpox or a different skin rash, then get medical advice. Dr Costa advises: "If your child’s skin looks red, inflamed, hot, and is leaking pus, they might have a skin infection, requiring urgent treatment. If your child is confused, can’t walk properly, develops a stiff neck, can't stand daylight, these might be signs of Meningitis or Encephalitis and you must seek urgent medical advice."

It is also advisable to seek professional help if you are pregnant and have not had chickenpox before, and you have been in contact with someone who has chickenpox. Similarly if you, or your little one has a weakened immune system and you come into contact with chickenpox then get some advice because you might need antiviral medications. Dr Luke Powles says: "You might then need anti-viral treatment, like Aciclovir, or Zovirax. Ideally, this medication needs to be taken within the first 24 hours of chickenpox spots appearing for the best chance of reducing symptoms and quickening your recovery time. In other cases, hospital-led immunoglobulin therapy may be needed."

It is also important to contact your doctor if your newborn baby contracts chickenpox, or as Dr Costa says: "Those with a weakened immune system, either due to having an immune condition or because they are taking long-term medication (chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication or long-term steroids) or someone who has received an organ transplant. Those with a weakened immune system, who are over 12 years old, or who have a chronic skin or lung condition will also benefit from taking Acyclovir."

Are there other ways to soothe chicken pox?

Other than the remedies recommended above, there are a few easy home remedies you can try to give your child a little relief which work for other skin conditions too. A cooling bath (add oatmeal if you want) will help, or an ice lolly can bring a cooling feeling to them as well as keeping them hydrated if they are struggling to eat and drink. Also try a chamomile compress by placing some chamomile teabags in a. warm bath and dipping a cloth into the bath and dabbing it on your little one's itchy skin. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects on skin. Most importantly though, giving your little one your love and support will also really help, just knowing that you're there will soothe them mentally.

About the experts

Dr Costa has over 16 years of experience in Paediatrics. He is a member of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and has practiced as a senior medic in both the NHS and private sector, having led both the Paediatric Services at University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire and Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Dr Luke Powles is the Clinical Director for Bupa Health Clinics. He was previously the Lead Physician for Bupa’s health clinics in Canary Wharf and King's Cross. Before joining Bupa, Luke was an NHS doctor for nearly 12 years working in both hospital medicine and general practice. He has a passion for preventative medicine.

Hannah James is a Parenting and Lifestyle Writer working across Mother&Baby, Yours and Grazia.