Calamine lotion is a medication that is used to treat mild itchiness, also called pruritus, and can help dry out oozing skin irritations. It is available over-the-counter (OTC) as a lotion or cream. Calamine lotion contains active ingredients such as zinc oxide and 0.5% iron oxide, which give it its medicinal properties. It also includes inactive ingredients such as purified water, glycerin, calcium hydroxide, and bentonite magma.

Some of the uses of calamine lotion include:

• Relieving itchiness caused by conditions such as bug bites, chickenpox, and poison ivy.
• Drying out oozing skin irritations and protecting the skin.
• Treating mild itchiness caused by sunburn, insect bites, or fungal infections.
• Easing symptoms such as stinging, itchiness, and swelling caused by mild insect bites and stings.

To use calamine lotion, shake the bottle well before use, moisten a cotton ball or similar applicator with the lotion, apply the lotion to the affected skin area with the cotton ball, and let the lotion dry on the skin. Repeat as often as needed.

There are very few adverse effects associated with calamine lotion. However, if you experience skin irritation, stop using it and talk with your doctor about an alternative medication. It is important to note that calamine lotion is not a sufficient treatment for bites and stings that are severe or venomous or could lead to disease. For example, calamine lotion will not prevent a person from contracting Lyme disease after a tick bite. It is, therefore, important to seek medical advice about any insect bite that could come from a venomous or disease-carrying species.