Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter (OTC) topical treatment (applied to the skin) that is used for soothing skin rashes and irritations.
This article covers what calamine lotion is, the conditions it treats, and how to use it safely.
Calamine lotion is an inexpensive remedy for many types of skin rashes.
If it’s not already in your medicine cabinet, calamine lotion can be easily purchased from most pharmacies, grocery stores, and online.
Some of the benefits of calamine lotion for the skin include:
Many rashes can be safely treated at home using home remedies and OTC medications. However, there are some circumstances in which it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. This can keep the rash from worsening and causing scarring or an infection.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience a rash plus any of the following:
Seek emergency medical help right away if you experience a rash plus any of the following:
Generally, if you are concerned about a rash, seek help from a healthcare provider.
Some of the common skin rashes and irritations that calamine lotion can help relieve include the following:
Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide (a white powder often used in sunscreens) and ferric oxide.
Zinc oxide blocks the effects of histamine in the body. Histamine is a chemical that causes the hallmark signs of an allergic reaction—redness, swelling, and itching.
Calamine lotion has the following properties that help it to relieve itching and irritation:
You may also see “calamine plus” lotions and sprays on your pharmacy shelf.
In addition to calamine, these products usually include a topical pain reliever like pramoxine and a cooling agent like camphor.
Cooling agents are also very effective against itch by temporarily relieving it by providing a cold sensation to the skin.
There are a few tips to keep in mind when applying calamine lotion.
Here’s how to apply calamine lotion effectively:
Calamine lotion can be applied to the skin as often as needed.
Stop using this product and call a healthcare provider if your condition worsens or if you’ve used this product for seven days and it hasn’t helped.
While calamine lotion is generally safe, a few precautions should be considered before using it.
Calamine lotion is designed to be applied to the skin, not ingested by mouth. Call a Poison Control center immediately if you or someone you know ingests calamine lotion.
Keep this and all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
Calamine lotion is not recommended for children under age two unless they are under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Avoid applying it near the eyes or mucous membranes, such as the nose, mouth, and genitals.
You shouldn’t use calamine lotion if you have allergies to zinc oxide, ferric oxide, or any of the following inactive ingredients that are found in the lotion:
If you have sensitive skin, check the label of your product to ensure you can use each ingredient. Try to look for a calamine product labeled “fragrance-free” to minimize the risk of irritation.
Calamine lotion is not a good long-term strategy for people with dry skin because it can make it even more dry and cause more itchiness.
Your healthcare provider may recommend calamine lotion for poison ivy, insect bites, or another itchy rash.
Remember that there are plenty of other options if you don’t want to use calamine lotion or it doesn’t work for you.
Some of the additional treatments for rashes and skin irritations include:
Calamine lotion is a topical OTC remedy for itching and irritation associated with skin conditions like poison ivy, bug bites, and allergic reactions.
It works by drying out oozing rashes, reducing itch, and cooling the skin.
Calamine lotion should not be ingested (taken by mouth) or used near the eyes, nose, mouth, or genitals.
If your rash worsens or does not improve after seven days of using calamine lotion, stop the treatment and consult your healthcare provider.
Alternatives include steroid creams and antihistamines.
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