Category- Allopathy
Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1. To get relief from itching, redness, and discomfort caused by measles, chickenpox, insect bites, sunburn, and poison ivy. |
| Common Side Effects | 1. Itching 2. Skin irritation 3. Erythema (skin redness) |
| Additional Information | 1. To be used for external application only 2. Wash hands after application to avoid accidental contact with eyes or mouth. 3. Apply a thin layer using clean cotton or fingertips |
| Storage | 1. The medicine should be stored at room temperature. 2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture. 3. Keep away from the reach of children. |
| How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be applied on the skin or affected part on the skin. |
Calamine Uses
Calamine 100 ml is a topical cream belonging to the class of anti-acne creams and used for various types of acne and rosacea caused by microbes and environmental factors, including
- To get relief from itching, redness, and discomfort caused by measles, chickenpox, insect bites, sunburn, and poison ivy.
- Drying and oozing out of skin cuts, burns, and irritations.
Calamine side effects
More Common
- Itching
- Skin irritation
- Erythema (skin redness)
Less Common
- Severe allergic reactions
- Infections
How Calamine works
Calamine lotion works in a simple way: when you apply it, the water part quickly evaporates, giving a cooling effect that calms itching; the calamine and zinc oxide form a thin protective layer on the skin that dries oozing rashes, reduces irritation, and shields from further damage; glycerin keeps the skin from getting too dry; and the other ingredients just help keep the mixture smooth and stable. Altogether, it cools, soothes, protects, and gently heals irritated skin.
Safety Measures and Warning
Allergy or Hypersensitivity
If you have previously had an allergy to this medicine, inform your doctor.
Pregnancy
It is considered safe to use during pregnancy
Breastfeeding
It is safe to use while breastfeeding. However, avoid using this medicine around the breast during breastfeeding.
Broken or Damaged Skin
Avoid applying it to open wounds, ulcers, or severely damaged skin because it can increase systemic absorption of steroids.
Calamine Interaction with Food Product
Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol after taking this medicine, as they fluctuate the level of blood glucose levels by affecting the liver and pancreas.
Calamine Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking calamine with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Calamine Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
Zinc oxide and Ferric Oxide
Intake routine/cycle
Daily dose
Take calamine exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
Overdose
Apply calamine suspension/lotion as per doctor’s instructions; do not consume orally. If ingested orally by mistake, overdose symptoms may occur and include nausea, irritation, and vomiting; excessive skin application causes marks on skin.
Storage
- Store the medicine at room temperature.
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Directions of use
- Do not apply in the eye
- Make sure to apply evenly on the skin
- Do not stop using this medicated lotion immediately unless allergic; complete the full course
Calamine Summary
Calamine lotion is referred to as pink skin medicine made from zinc oxide and a little iron oxide. It is an OTC medicine used to relieve itching, redness, and irritation caused by rashes, insect bites, chickenpox, sunburn, and plant allergies. It works by cooling, drying, and protecting the skin. Side effects are uncommon but may include mild dryness, stinging, or rarely an allergic reaction. It does not interact with food or medicines since it is only applied on the skin. Shake well before use, apply a thin layer to the affected area, wash hands afterwards, and store at room temperature away from heat, sunlight, and children.
FAQ’s
What are the uses of calamine 100 ml?
Calamine is widely used to relieve itching and irritation from insect bites, sunburn, and rashes caused by poison ivy and chickenpox. It has a cooling effect and helps dry out oozing skin lesions. Additionally, it may soothe minor eczema and acne-related discomfort.
Can calamine lotion be used daily?
Calamine lotion can be used daily, especially for oily or acne-prone skin, but it may cause dryness if applied over sensitive skin. It’s best suited for spot treatment or occasional use during flare-ups. If dryness or irritation occurs, reduce frequency or consult a dermatologist.
How effective is calamine in heat rash?
Calamine lotion is fairly effective for heat rash, offering relief from itching, redness, and mild inflammation. Its drying and cooling properties help soothe irritated skin.
Is calamine an effective treatment for pimples?
Calamine lotion can help dry out pimples due to its zinc oxide content, which has mild anti-inflammatory and oil-absorbing properties. It’s best used as a spot treatment for occasional breakouts. However, it doesn’t target acne’s root causes like bacteria or hormones, so it’s not a long-term solution.
What is the mechanism of action of calamine?
Calamine works by cooling the skin, drying out moisture, and forming a protective layer, helping relieve itching, reduce redness, and support healing from bites, rashes, sunburn, or chickenpox.
Reference
- Practo. Calamine – Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Price, Composition [Internet]. Practo; 2022 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Cerner Multum, Inc. Calamine topical: Uses, Side Effects & Warnings [Internet]. Drugs.com; 2025 Aug 4 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Frothingham S. Calamine Lotion Uses: Benefits, Application & Potential Side Effects [Internet]. Healthline; 2019 Oct 12 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Johnston B, Vermeulen M. Calamine (Caladryl, Calahist, and Others): Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing [Internet]. WebMD; 2025 Jul 1 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
- Cleveland Clinic. Calamine Lotion: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic; 2022 Jun 24 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from.
Authors
Siva Krishna Adithya Bhumireddy completed Bachelor of Pharmacy from GIET School of Pharmacy affiliated to Andhra University and from his 3rd year of graduation itself he was working as a freelance Medical and Publication writer and having expertise in Systematic reviews and clinical research. With his keen interest and skills in research and documentation practices he also reviewed more than 100 manuscripts from international journals like Elsevier, Springer Nature, Sage Journals and all the manuscripts were indexed and appeared in Pub Med, Scopus and Web of Science databases and received honorary recognition letters and certificates from all of them. Siva Krishna Adithya also published few systematic, narrative reviews and few chapters of international expertise.