In this article, we will explain what calamine lotion is, its properties, whether it helps treat acne, some key precautions to consider, and many more. Keep scrolling! Variations of calamine lotion have been used over the years to soothe and dry weeping rashes from poison ivy and other poisonous plants (3). The active component of calamine lotion, zinc oxide, has also shown antimicrobial activity (4). The lotion, therefore, has been used to treat zits, warts, and mild to moderate acne (1).

Key Properties Of Calamine Lotion

Thanks to zinc ions, the calamine lotion has a bunch of cosmeceutical benefits. A few noteworthy ones are (1), (2), (4):

Mild astringent: Heals bleeding or damaged tissues

Antipruritic: Relieves itching and irritation

Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation by controlling histamine and other mediators

Antimicrobial: Fights certain strains of bacteria and fungi

Photoprotective: Shields skin from harmful components of sunlight

Anti-aging: Improves elasticity in aging tissues

Scar-reducing: Manages most types of scars (hypertrophic, keloid, acne, burns, etc.) by controlling collagen production

Calamine lotion effectively demonstrates anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, and scar-reducing properties on the face and skin. Hence, it is being increasingly used to treat acne vulgaris and rosacea. Acne treatment with the traditional calamine lotion has not been well-accepted and proven yet. Read the following sections to understand whether this approach actually works.

Can Calamine Lotion Treat Acne?

Acne vulgaris is caused due to uncontrolled sebum secretion, clogged skin pores, and bacterial (Propionibacterium acnes) infection. Those affected, especially adolescents, show signs of moderate to severe inflammation (5). Redness, painful and bleeding bumps, irritation, itching, and pus-filled blisters are a few characteristic symptoms of acne. The most common approach to treat acne has been using antibiotics. However, several traditional non-antibiotic regimens have shown equivalent results (5). Topical formulas like calamine, benzoyl peroxide, and tretinoin are used to augment oral antibiotic courses. The sulfur and zinc content in calamine has shown to reduce inflammation. In a 2010 study, about 60% of acne patients that received such a treatment achieved good to excellent results (5). Zinc ions in calamine lotion control the production of histamine, a pro-inflammatory chemical, in skin cells. They also soothe itching and irritation caused by histamine production in the affected areas (1). However, the exact mechanism of zinc, particularly in acne mitigation, is not well-studied or researched yet (1).

How To Use Calamine Lotion For Acne

Current research suggests that calamine lotion may not address the underlying cause of acne. So, applying it topically as a spot treatment would only help relieve the itch and scars. Its astringent effect may dry out the puss-filled zits. The antimicrobial property of zinc in calamine is considered to be effective against P.acnes infection. But there is not enough evidence to support or demonstrate the effect of calamine lotion on acne (1). Therefore, it is best to use this topical lotion only to manage itching and irritation associated with acne.

Does Calamine Lotion Have Any Side Effects?

The dermatological applications of calamine lotion are attributed to its active ingredient, zinc. Despite showing excellent results on skin conditions, particularly acne, zinc-based therapy is not favored and practiced enough (1). No major side effects associated with calamine lotion have been brought to light in scientific studies. However, the combination of calamine and diphenhydramine has been shown to cause contact dermatitis (2). The following mild to severe signs have been linked to calamine lotion but have no supporting evidence:

Rashes/Hives Redness Itching Inflammation (stinging sensation) Swelling on face, tongue, or throat Troubled breathing

If you observe any of these symptoms after using calamine lotion, please visit your healthcare provider.

Who Should Avoid Using Calamine Lotion? What Precautions Should You Take While Using It?

If you have had one or all of the above-listed symptoms upon using calamine lotion in the past, it is best to stay away from it.

You should also inform your healthcare provider or doctor about such sensitivity.

Calamine lotion may not be suitable for use on infants and babies below 6 months of age (3). However, there is no concrete scientific consensus about this.

This lotion is meant only for external/topical use. If it gets into the eyes, mouth, or nose, use water to wash it out immediately.

Calamine lotion leaves a thin film on the skin. It may stain fabrics and surfaces in close contact. Make sure you wait for the lotion to get fully absorbed.

It may not be safe to use this topical treatment on deep cuts and open skin wounds. Ask your physician before using it to avoid ill effects.

Why is calamine lotion pink? Calamine lotion contains iron oxide which gives it its characteristic pink color. Does Lacto Calamine remove blackheads? Lacto Calamine contains zinc which has antimicrobial properties that may help in the management of blackheads (7). How long should I leave calamine lotion on? You can leave on calamine lotion for as long as you need to. However, those with sensitive skin should keep it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Is calamine lotion an antibiotic? No, calamine lotion is a topical anti-itch lotion that helps in relieving itching and many other skin issues. What is the difference between Lacto Calamine and calamine lotion? Lacto calamine is a type of calamine lotion that contains zinc which helps in relieving itching and may prevent acne. Is calamine good for oily skin? Yes, calamine lotion is a water-based formula that may absorb excess oil and unclog pores, making your skin soft and healthy.

Sources

Zinc Therapy in Dermatology: A Review,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4120804/ Allergic Contact dermatitis with exfoliation secondary to calamine/diphenhydramine lotion in a 9 year old girl,http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.590.2587&rep=rep1&type=pdf Outsmarting Poison Ivy and Other Poisonous Plants,https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/outsmarting-poison-ivy-and-other-poisonous-plants The contribution of zinc ions to the antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide,https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0927775714005172#screen-reader-main-content Oral Antibiotics in Acne Vulgaris: Therapeutic Response Over 5 Years,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4170416/ CALAMINE- calamine and zinc oxide lotion,https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=61929c97-bd6b-0d7c-e053-2991aa0aa571 Role of zinc in acne: a study of 77 patients,https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326399842_Role_of_zinc_in_acne_a_study_of_77_patients