Is zinc oxide available over the counter?

Which kind of zinc oxide do you need?

For sun protection, look for a sunscreen. For protection against moisture, zinc oxide creams and ointments form a protective barrier on the skin. Zinc oxide is also found in calamine lotion and cosmetics. These are different product categories, not interchangeable directions for using the same ingredient.23

Is zinc oxide 20% available over the counter?

Zinc oxide sunscreen is available without a prescription, but a particular 20% product needs to be checked individually. Check the exact product's label and nonprescription status rather than treating the percentage as a prescription rule. For sun protection, choose by the sunscreen's SPF and broad spectrum labeling, not the zinc oxide percentage alone.14

What should you look for in a zinc oxide sunscreen?

Choose SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum protection, which covers UVA and UVB rays. A water resistant formula is useful when sunscreen could wash off. A brand name is not the deciding factor; the sun does not read the logo before getting to work.4

Apply enough sunscreen and reapply regularly throughout the day. An adult needs about one ounce for body coverage, roughly a shot glass amount. Use sunscreen alongside other sun protection measures. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sunscreens can be less irritating options for sensitive skin, but sensitivity to zinc oxide itself can cause local irritation or an allergic reaction.124

How do you use zinc oxide as a moisture barrier?

Zinc oxide creams and ointments help shield skin from moisture, including urine or stool leakage. Barrier creams protect skin from moisture, which is a less glamorous job than the word "skincare" usually gets assigned. The practical aim is to limit further irritation, not to leave moisture sitting beneath a layer of cream.35

For skin exposed to urine or stool leakage:

1. 1Clean the affected area promptly after each episode, even when a barrier product is already on the skin.
2. 2Use mild, diluted soap and water, rinse well and gently pat dry. A suitable cleanser that does not contain soap is another option; follow its directions.
3. 3Reapply the barrier cream or ointment after cleaning and drying.

Avoid alcohol containing products on this irritated skin. If you are receiving radiation therapy, ask your treating clinician before using creams or lotions on the area. Severe irritation needs medical attention rather than simply more barrier cream.3

When is buying a cream not enough?

Zinc oxide can protect skin irritated by moisture around hemorrhoids, but persistent anal itching, irritation or bleeding needs assessment. Symptoms that seem like hemorrhoids can have another cause. A skin fold rash with a foul smell, pus or raised tender bumps also needs prompt medical attention because an infection requires proper treatment.56

Zinc oxide skin products are not for swallowing. If someone swallows a product, contact poison control for advice and keep the container available so you can give its name, ingredients and strength. In the United States, call Poison Help at 1 800 222 1222; you can call about a possible poisoning without waiting for an emergency.2