Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter medication that relieves itching and discomfort caused by minor skin allergies, such as poison ivy, insect bites, and sunburn. It is a mixture of zinc ferric oxide, and other ingredients. Here's a breakdown of calamine lotion's ingredients, how it works, its benefits, uses, and potential side effects:

Calamine lotion can help ease and heal the following skin problems:

  • Any allergic reactions to poisonous plants like poison oak, poison ivy, etc
  • Insect bites
  • Chickenpox
  • Shingles
  • Swimmer’s itch
  • Scabies
  • Chigger bites
  • Minor burns

Also Read: 5 Ways To Treat Your Skin Allergy Naturally

What Are the Key Ingredients In Calamine Lotion?

Zinc oxide: Provides a shielding barrier on the skin and helps soothe irritation.

Ferric oxide: Gives calamine lotion pink and helps soothe the skin.

Other ingredients may include calamine, glycerin, bentonite, and calcium hydroxide.

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How Does It Work?

Calamine lotion works by naturally cooling and soothing the skin, which helps relieve itching and irritation.

It also helps dry out oozing and weeping caused by various skin conditions. The zinc oxide in calamine lotion has mild astringent traits, which can help tighten pores and dry out oily skin.

Benefits:

Relieves itching and discomfort caused by minor skin irritations.

Helps dry out oozing and weeping skin conditions.

Soothes sunburn and minor burns.

Proper Use

Calamine is meant for external purposes only. Do not ingest it, and do not apply it on the eye or mucous membranes like the inside of the mouth, nose, sex organs, or anal regions.

Also Read: Allergies: Understand About Types, Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

To Use Calamine Lotion:

Shake the lotion well before using it.

Apply sufficient lotion to cover affected skin regions and rub in mildly.

Smear a thin layer of calamine lotion to the affected region and let it dry.

Reuse as often as needed, generally up to four times a day.

Do not apply it on broken or irritated skin; avoid using it in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Side Effects

Calamine lotion is generally safe for most people when used as directed.

However, some people may experience skin irritation, redness, or a rash.

If you observe any adverse side effects, such as breathing issues or swelling of the face, seek immediate medical help.

Calamine lotion is a safe and effective way to alleviate itching and discomfort caused by minor skin irritations. It is important to use it as directed and get help from a healthcare provider if you have any health concerns or experience any severe side effects.

Dosing

This lotion's exact dose and usage will vary depending on the patient's needs. Follow instructions given by your doctor or the directions given on the label.

The amount of lotions you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of times you use it each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you apply the lotion depend on the health condition for which you use it.

Storage

Store the lotion in a closed cabinet at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not use outdated lotion.

Precautions

If your condition worsens or does not heal or improve within a week of usage, or if rashes or skin irritation occurs, stop using calamine lotion and consult your healthcare provider.

References:

Calamine lotion , Nirma Joy​

 Department of Dermatology, MKCG Medical College, Berhampur, Odisha, India

https://jsstd.org/calamine-lotion/

Effectiveness of calamine lotion as an adjunctive therapy to mometasone furoate ointment in the treatment of infant eczema: A retrospective study

Yuan-Cui Meng, MM,a Jin-Chao Fan, MB,b and Wei-Ni Bian, MBcorresponding authora,*

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9439764/