Calamine is a common over-the-counter skin care product that is used to soothe and protect the skin. It typically consists of zinc oxide and iron(III) oxide, giving it a characteristic pink color. Calamine is well-known for its calming and anti-itch properties, making it a popular remedy for a variety of skin irritations.
Benefits of Calamine
- Anti-Itch: Calamine is known for its anti-itch properties, providing relief from skin irritation and itching.
- Skin Soothing: It has a calming effect on the skin, making it useful for treating rashes and sunburn.
- Protective Barrier: Calamine creates a protective barrier on the skin, helping to shield it from irritants and prevent further damage.
- Mild Astringent: It has mild astringent properties, which can help dry out skin and reduce redness and swelling.
- Cooling Effect: The cooling sensation of calamine provides comfort to inflamed or irritated skin.
Common Uses of Calamine
Skin Care Products
Calamine is commonly used in skincare products for its soothing and anti-itch properties. It is often found in:
- Calamine Lotions: Used to relieve itching and irritation from insect bites, poison ivy, or rashes
- Calamine Creams: For soothing sunburn, rashes, and other skin irritations
- Medicated Powders: To soothe and protect the skin
First Aid and Medical Applications
Calamine is widely used in first aid products and medical treatments. Common applications include:
- Sunburn Relief: To calm and soothe sunburned skin
- Rash Treatments: For treating rashes caused by allergic reactions or plant irritants like poison ivy
- Insect Bite Relief: To reduce itching and irritation from insect bites
Product Specifications
- INCI Name: Calamine (zinc oxide and iron(III) oxide)
- CAS No: 8011-96-9
- Form: Powder or lotion
- Color: Pink
- Product Type: Skin protectant, anti-itch
- Usage: Skincare, first aid, medical
- Purity: Typically 95–99%
- Shelf Life: 2 years or more, depending on storage conditions
Storage and Handling
Store calamine in a cool, dry place, in a sealed container to prevent contamination and moisture absorption. Keep away from direct sunlight to maintain quality and consistency.