Does calamine lotion already contain zinc oxide?

Some calamine lotions already combine calamine and zinc oxide, including Boots Calamine Lotion. Check your bottle's active ingredients before looking for a second product, because two bottles can be a surprisingly elaborate way to duplicate a shopping list. Calamine lotion appears under several supplier names, so the name on the front is doing less detective work than the ingredient list, which is awkward for the part of the bottle facing the customer.3

Can you use it for insect bites and stings?

Calamine with zinc oxide is an over the counter option for insect bites and stings. For these minor, self limiting problems.1

How should you use the lotion?

The combination lotion is for topical use, meaning application to the skin, which gives a simple lotion a vocabulary fit for a formal application. Follow your bottle's directions for the amount, frequency and permitted application areas rather than borrowing instructions from another calamine product.4

Does it clear pityriasis rosea?

For pityriasis rosea, zinc oxide and calamine are options for easing severe itch. Treat them as symptom relief rather than a way to set a deadline for the rash. Pityriasis rosea usually resolves in about 6 to 10 weeks; that is the rash's usual course, not a waiting time for the lotion to work. Moisturising cream can help dry skin, and washing with plain water and a soap substitute is another supportive measure.2

When does the rash need medical advice?

Get an uncertain rash assessed, especially if the palms or soles are affected, because other conditions can resemble pityriasis rosea. Severe or persistent symptoms also warrant assessment for other treatment options. If you are pregnant and suspect pityriasis rosea, seek medical advice: pregnancy complications have been reported, particularly during the first 15 weeks.2

Where this answer comes from

  1. 1mpd.doncasterccg.nhs.ukmpd.doncasterccg.nhs.uk
  2. 2Pityriasis roseadermnetnz.org
  3. 3SPSmca.sps.nhs.uk
  4. 4Product informationhealth-products.canada.ca