From the Guidelines
Calamine lotion is not recommended for the treatment of generalized pruritus of unknown origin (GPUO) due to lack of evidence supporting its use, as stated in the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines 1. The main ingredients of calamine lotion include zinc oxide and ferric oxide, which give it its characteristic pink color, often combined with other ingredients like glycerin, bentonite, and calcium hydroxide.
Uses of Calamine Lotion
- Calamine lotion is commonly used to treat minor skin irritations, such as:
- Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac rashes
- Insect bites
- Sunburn
- Minor skin irritations
- Chickenpox blisters
- However, its use is not supported by evidence for generalized pruritus of unknown origin (GPUO) 1.
Application and Precautions
To use calamine lotion, shake the bottle well, apply a thin layer to the affected area with cotton balls or clean hands, and allow it to dry.
- You can reapply it 3-4 times daily as needed.
- The zinc oxide in calamine works by creating a protective barrier on the skin while also having mild astringent and antiseptic properties that help dry oozing or weeping skin lesions.
- While generally safe, avoid applying it to broken skin, open wounds, or around the eyes.
- If symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, consult a healthcare provider as this may indicate a more serious condition requiring different treatment. It's worth noting that cooling antipruritic lotions, such as calamine or 1% menthol in aqueous cream, can be soothing for urticaria patients 1. However, this is not directly related to the treatment of GPUO.
From the Research
Ingredients of Calamine Lotion
- Calamine lotion typically contains calamine, which is a mixture of zinc oxide and ferric oxide, as well as other ingredients such as bentonite magma, phenol, and resorcinol 2, 3.
- The exact composition of calamine lotion may vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product formulation.
- Some studies have investigated the use of alternative suspending agents, such as tahini, in calamine lotion 4.
Uses of Calamine Lotion
- Calamine lotion is commonly used to treat skin irritation, itching, and rashes, including those caused by eczema, insect bites, and poison ivy 5, 6.
- It has been shown to be effective in reducing skin irritation and itching in children with cast immobilization 5.
- Calamine lotion may also be used as an adjunctive therapy to other treatments, such as mometasone furoate ointment, in the treatment of infant eczema 6.
- The lotion has anti-itch and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular over-the-counter remedy for various skin conditions.