Calamine lotion is a complete savoir. It works perfectly well for several skin issues, starting from hives to cuts, zits, pimples, and scares. But how about calamine lotion for acne? Well, medical and research communities appear to be against it. Recent dermatological studies have suggested that the role of zinc-based calamine lotion in treating acne is unclear and needs further studies (1).
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!
Stylecraze Trivia It is said that calamine lotion has been used to treat skin issues since 1500 BC.
In This Article
What Is Calamine Lotion?
Calamine lotion is zinc oxide or zinc carbonate-based preparation. It has been used in cosmetics, sunscreen, dusting powder, shampoos, and dermatological creams and ointments (1), (2).
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
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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 (hypertrophici XA scar that is thicker, broad, and raised and forms where the skin is damaged, appearing when there is strain surrounding the wound. , keloidi XA raised scar caused by an unnatural increase in the amount of scar tissue that develops on the site of the wound. , 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.
Related: Top 35 Anti-Aging Foods That Keep Your Skin Youthful
Can Calamine Lotion Treat Acne?
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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 blistersi XA painful bump on the skin that is frequently fluid-like in nature and is brought on by a burn or friction. 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).
Related: 13 Tips And Remedies To Prevent Acne And Pimples Naturally
How To Use Calamine Lotion For Acne
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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.
StyleCraze Says Shake the bottle well before applying calamine lotion to your acne. Pour a little bit of lotion onto a cotton ball. Dab the cotton ball on your acne and allow it to dry. Repeat it as often as necessary.
Does Calamine Lotion Have Any Side Effects?
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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.
Related: 10 Home Remedies For Hives And Treatment
Who Should Avoid Using Calamine Lotion? What Precautions Should You Take While Using It?
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- 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.
Key Takeaways
- Calamine lotion has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging properties.
- It is one of the most common ingredients in skin and hair care products.
- Studies suggest that it may help relieve acne symptoms like itching and scarring.
- It is said to be ideal for spot treatment of acne, but further studies are needed on its effectiveness.
Calamine lotion is a popular over-the-counter topical skin treatment. It has been used to treat various dermatological conditions ranging from minor to severe issues. On the other hand, calamine lotion’s role in treating acne has received little research and evidence. According to current research, it may not address the underlying cause of acne. As a result, using it topically as a spot treatment will only assist in reducing the itching and scarring. Its astringent properties may help to dry out pus-filled zits. So, think twice the next time you are advised to apply calamine on acne-affected areas – your skin may require more.
