Calamine Lotion: Benefits, Risks and How to Use

Calamine lotion has several uses. These include tending to bug bites, sunburns, and pimples. It helps reduce the burning, stinging, and itching sensations in these and other mild skin conditions.  The primary applications, application guidelines, and potential side effects of calamine lotion are covered in this article.

What is calamine lotion?

Zinc and iron oxide (ferric oxide) combine to make calamine lotion. Ferric oxide is responsible for the iconic pink hue of calamine lotion, while zinc oxide is a calming and protective agent for the skin. Different non-active ingredients are present depending on the type of calamine product a person is using. Ingredients like calcium hydroxide, glycerin, and purified water are examples of these inert ingredients.

Drugstores and grocery stores throughout the United Kingdom carry this over-the-counter product.

How does calamine lotion work?

Zinc oxide and 0.5% iron oxide are the active ingredients in calamine lotion. Calamine lotion gets its unique pink colour from iron oxide. Ingredients in inactive calamine lotion include:

• Filtered water.
• Glycerin
• Hydroxyapatite 
• Magnesium bentonite.

Calamine is a non-prescription antipruritic medication. It is only intended for direct application to the skin. It is crucial to adhere to all the instructions provided on the packaging and any instructions provided by a healthcare professional. Before using calamine lotion, it is vital to shake the container thoroughly. Apply the cream by pouring it onto a cotton ball, swab, or soft cloth, and then gently dab it over the afflicted skin region. The application of the lotion necessitates allowing it to dry on the skin. This procedure must be performed as many as necessary.

It is essential to avoid using calamine lotion on an exposed wound. It is necessary to refrain from using calamine lotion near the eyes, nose, mouth, or genital and anal areas. If the lotion comes into contact with any of these areas, it is essential to rinse it off with water promptly. Immediate contact with a poison control centre is necessary in the event of drug ingestion.

Discontinuation of the medication is necessary, and immediate consultation with a healthcare professional is advised if the skin condition deteriorates. Calamine lotion is suitable for children aged two and above; however, it is crucial to closely supervise its use. The application may be repeated up to four times daily on a youngster. The medicine should be stored in a safe location to prevent access by minors when it is not being used. Prior to using calamine lotion on a kid under the age of two, it is essential to get guidance from a paediatrician.

What are the Benefits of using Calamine Lotion?

Calamine lotion helps reduce inflammation, redness, and itching in various skin diseases. It helps dry up the skin in certain disorders when a rash seeps through fluids. The directions with a particular calamine product must always be followed, as they are specific to that product. Generally speaking, the lotion must be shaken before being applied to the affected region. A cotton pad is used to apply the cream, which must then be allowed to air dry entirely on the skin.

We'll go over some common ailments that calamine lotion treats down below.

Insect bites

Calamine lotion helps treat bug bites, including those caused by mosquitoes. A substance found in the saliva of female mosquitoes causes redness, itching, and swelling after a mosquito bite.

Even though the bites often itch, it's crucial to refrain from scratching. The biting wound develops infected if a person scratches it. Calamine is one anti-itch cream that helps reduce itching and prevent insect bites from becoming worse.

Poison oak and poison sumac rashes

Poison oak, poison ivy, and poison sumac plants release an oil that makes a person rashy when it comes into contact with the skin. Up to 90% of adult users of this oil, known as urushiol, will get a rash after coming into contact with it.

These toxic plants produce rashes that manifest as blisters or red pimples. Blisters have the potential to expand as they fill with fluid over time. Calamine reduces redness and itching by drying up the blisters that are leaking fluid.

Acne

Acne develops when the pores—tiny holes in the skin—get blocked. It usually manifests as red, swollen pimples. If left untreated or doesn't go away on its own, acne leaves lifelong scars.  The zinc in calamine lotion has anti-inflammatory qualities that lessen acne's redness. It could also reduce the skin's oil production, which delays the onset of acne. Additionally, it functions as a disinfectant or antiseptic to help cleanse the skin and get rid of microorganisms.

Acne is the most prevalent skin ailment in the United States. Up to 85% of individuals in this age bracket suffer from acne at some point, making teenagers and young adults particularly prone to it.

Nevertheless, calamine lotion is generally not the dermatologist's first pick for treating acne. Research reveals that using zinc to treat acne has varying outcomes. Fortunately, there are a tonne of other well-researched effective drugs. Before attempting to treat acne with calamine lotion, see the doctor. They'll likely recommend another product more suitable for your skin type.

Heat rash (Miliaria)

Sweating is the body's natural reaction to heat. However, perspiration, humidity, and heat work together to clog sweat ducts, irritating the skin and resulting in heat rashes.

Heat rashes, which resemble red, swollen zits, are standard on the upper chest, inside the elbows, and the neck. Although they usually go away independently, calamine lotion could be helpful if the rash is bothersome and some comfort is needed.

Chickenpox

The varicella-zoster virus is the virus that causes chickenpox. (VZV). It manifests as a rash that develops into blisters. These blisters can spread throughout the body and become quite itchy. They turn into scabs as they begin to heal.

Although calamine lotion doesn't cure chickenpox, it does help with itching, one of the most uncomfortable symptoms. Because VZV, similar to chickenpox, also causes shingles, calamine lotion helps with itching.

Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis rosea is a common rash that frequently appears in childhood. The skin appears red and rough as a result. The rash must appear on the back; it resembles a Christmas tree. Although the cause of this rash is unknown, it is brought on by drugs, viruses, or other microorganisms.

Individuals with this rash may feel itchy. While the rash usually disappears on its own, calamine lotion temporarily relieves the irritation.

Swimmer's itch

People who enjoy swimming have experienced swimmer's itch. This condition is an allergic reaction to freshwater and saltwater parasites. Contact with these parasites causes blisters or red spots on the skin, accompanied by tingling or an itching sensation on the rash.

For the most part, cases of swimmer's itch do not require a doctor's attention. However, it is essential to avoid scratching the rash to prevent infection. In this situation, calamine lotion provides soothing relief.

If you are someone who is experiencing the skin conditions mentioned above, checkout Welzo’s Calamine Lotion that provide relief from burning and itching skin with a few applications as per advice from a dermatologist.

Sunburn

One develops sunburn if the skin is exposed to UV rays. A person gets painful, hot, and red skin. Calamine products promote skin relaxation due to their relaxing and soothing properties. Zinc oxide, included in calamine lotion, also functions as a sunburn preventive agent. It is a constituent found in several sunscreens and acts as a UV radiation inhibitor, providing sun protection. 

What are the Risks of using Calamine Lotion?

The beneficial uses of calamine lotion are countless. However, it is essential to understand the possible side effects and risks of its use. Enlisted below are the risks and side effects often encountered with the use of calamine lotion.

Skin irritation

The primary purpose of calamine lotion is to relieve irritation and itching. However, some people have further skin issues. It manifests as increased dryness, increased redness in that skin area, or a burning sensation from the lotion. Ferric and zinc oxide are both applied to help the skin dry out. Therefore, if used too often and in large quantities, the feeling of dryness and irritation becomes worse. Treating the irritation must be stopped if it becomes worse. Reduce how often a person uses the lotion or switch to an alternate therapy that the doctor prescribes to control it.

Allergic reactions

Some users of calamine lotion have an adverse response to one or more ingredients. An allergic response includes a rash where the cream was applied, excessive redness, itching, swelling, or swelling in a particular skin area. An allergic response indicates that the immune system is attacking a lotion ingredient because it believes it to be hazardous. The therapy must be discontinued if any of the above effects occur. To ensure no lotion is left on the skin, the region must be given a thorough water wash. A hydrocortisone cream that isn't too strong relieves the discomfort. A doctor must be consulted as a potential remedy if there is no improvement after a short period.

Here are the less common but serious side effects of calamine lotion:

Severe allergic reaction

Rarely, calamine lotions also cause severe allergic responses. This suggests that there is facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling, as well as hives, intense itching, dyspnoea, and wheezing. An anaphylactic response occurs in this situation, and medical help is immediately needed. If similar symptoms are experienced by a person or anyone else, emergency medical assistance must be contacted immediately, the product must be ceased, and it must never be used again. It is essential to verify that a person is within the allergy risk zone and to disclose any allergies one has.

Systemic absorption

Calamine lotion is absorbed systemically. That occurs if excessive lotion is applied to large parts of the body, such as the skin breaks, too regularly. It is poisonous, causing headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, sluggishness, and hypoactivity. Human skin is designed to shield the body from the elements by keeping various chemicals from penetrating the body. Meanwhile, even small quantities of the lotion have the potential to reach the bloodstream in the event of significant skin breaks. If a person experiences these symptoms, he can't help but notice what's happening. As a result, he must cease the medication and see his doctor right away. The doctor enquires about certain symptoms and gets a response on the next course of action.

How to use calamine lotion?

Applying calamine lotion is easy; follow the instructions below.

For general use

How to use calamine lotion for sunburn, itching, and minor rashes:

• Verify that the impacted region is dry and clean.
• To blend the components, shake the calamine lotion container.
• Gently massage the lotion into the skin, taking care to avoid the genitalia, anal region, mouth, eyes, and nose.
• Give hands a good wash.
• After using the lotion, wash any clothes that come into contact with it to prevent accumulation and discolouration.

For acne, bites, and stings

People use calamine lotion for mild bites, stings, or acne blemishes by applying a tiny quantity on a cotton wool pad and pressing it against the problematic area. They need to carefully massage the lotion before washing their hands.

Once again, it's crucial to avoid mucous membranes and delicate skin regions like the mouth and genitalia.  Calamine lotion is used by acne sufferers before bedtime to decrease spots while they sleep. It is very drying for sensitive skin, so they want to avoid it.  Calamine lotion works as a temporary relief for irritation and redness, but it doesn't address the underlying causes of recurrent acne. If acne is a recurring issue, it could be wise to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist to discuss possible treatments.

What are the Safety precautions regarding the Use of Calamine Lotion?

Calamine lotion mustn't be used by those who:

• exhibit an allergy to any of the inactive or active components.
• encounter adverse consequences while using it.
• are scheduled for an X-ray, as the lotion impacts the outcome
• are younger than six months

In some situations, young newborns can use calamine lotion, but seeing a doctor first is crucial.  Similarly, it is advised to see a doctor before taking calamine lotion during pregnancy, even if there are no recognised hazards.

Calamine lotion contains combustible chemicals, so it mustn't be used near smoke or fire. Applying calamine near an open flame increases the risk of serious burns. Calamine lotion must never be swallowed; if it gets in the mouth, nose, or eyes, it must be immediately cleaned. The lotion must always be kept out of children's reach.

People Also Ask

Is there any comparison between calamine lotion and hydrocortisone while treating itching?

Calamine lotion is used to sooth itching as it provides a cooling sensation by creating a protective shield on the skin. Whereas hydrocortisone cream reduces the underlying skin inflammation and acts as an effective solution for cases of severe itching due to allergic reactions or intractable skin conditions such as eczema. Calamine is a safer option for mild itching and rashes and hydrocortisone is often recommended for severe and persistent itchy skin conditions.

Can calamine lotion help with skin pimples or acne?

Calamine lotion contain zinc oxide that dry out the pimples. However, it is not the primary solution to treat recurrent pimples or acne. Calamine lotion is suitable for use in cases of occasional spot treatments rather than the management of recurrent acne.

Conclusion

Zinc and iron oxide (ferric oxide) combine to make calamine lotion. Ferric oxide is responsible for the iconic pink hue of calamine lotion, while zinc oxide is a calming and protective agent for the skin. Calamine lotion has several uses. These include tending to bug bites, sunburns, and pimples. It helps reduce the burning, stinging, and itching sensations in these and other mild skin conditions.

Calamine is a non-prescription antipruritic medication. It is only intended for direct application to the skin. It is crucial to adhere to all the instructions provided on the packaging and any instructions provided by a healthcare professional. Before using calamine lotion, it is vital to shake the container thoroughly. Apply the cream by pouring it onto a cotton ball, swab, or soft cloth, and then gently dab it over the afflicted skin region.

Calamine lotion helps treat bug bites, including those caused by mosquitoes. Even though the bites often itch, it's crucial to refrain from scratching. Calamine is one anti-itch cream that helps reduce itching and prevent insect bites from becoming worse. Toxic plants, such as poison ivy, produce rashes that manifest as blisters or red pimples. Calamine reduces redness and itching by drying up the blisters that are leaking fluid. The zinc in calamine lotion has anti-inflammatory qualities that lessen acne's redness. Heat rashes, which resemble red, swollen zits, are often treated with calamine lotion.

The risks associated with the use of calamine lotion includes skin irritation due to overuse of the lotion, allergic reaction to its chemical constituents in its composition and systemic absorption when excessive quantities of the lotion are applied over large areas of the eroded skin. People use calamine lotion for mild bites, stings, or acne blemishes by applying a tiny quantity on a cotton wool pad and pressing it against the problematic area. They need to carefully massage the lotion before washing their hands. It is crucial to avoid mucous membranes and delicate skin regions like the mouth and genitalia. 

Checkout Welzo’s Calamine Lotion that provide relief from burning and itching skin with a few applications as per advice from a dermatologist.