If you’ve ever experienced an itchy bug bite, then you know what calamine lotion is.
Calamine lotion is a topical skin product used to relieve symptoms of irritation or itching, especially from insect bites, sunburns and poison ivy.
The active ingredient in it is zinc oxide, which provides a soothing effect on the skin.
While we often associate calamine with pink lotion, it actually refers to the combination of zinc oxide and ferric oxide.
However, the term “calamine” has become synonymous with a specific brand of it that comes in a pink-colored bottle.
Also can be found in many forms including liquid, cream and even powder.
Some products contain calamine as the only active ingredient while others include antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), or anti-itch ingredients such as hydrocortisone to help relieve itching and irritation.
Made from calamine, which is composed of zinc oxide and iron oxide.
The lotion also contains:
- calcium hydroxide
- glycerol
- talc
- It can be found in products such as:
- Caladryl Clear Lotion (contains calamine, pramoxine hydrochloride, and zinc acetate)
- Caladryl Lotion (contains calamine, pramoxine hydrochloride, and zinc acetate)
- Domeboro Otic Solution (aluminium sulphate and calcium acetate solution)
Use it to treat the symptoms of chickenpox and other types of skin irritation.
You can also use calamine lotion as an insect repellent and in the treatment of insect bites and stings.
It contains a mixture of zinc oxide (which relieves itching) and iron oxide (which gives calamine its characteristic pink colour). The active ingredient in calamine is zinc oxide.
And is available over-the-counter in liquid form, although some products are formulated with added ingredients such as pramoxine (another topical anaesthetic), diphenhydramine (an oral antihistamine), or hydroxyzine (another oral antihistamine).
It may also be combined with other medications to treat specific conditions.
It is available in most grocery stores, pharmacies and drug stores without a prescription.
However, a person should check with their doctor before using calamine lotion on young children or those with sensitive skin.
Please note that regular First Aid and CPR Training is the best way to make sure that you’re prepare in the case of an emergency. Book a course with us!
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