Calamine lotion is pink due to the iron oxide and zinc oxide that gives it the pink color when mixed together.
Calamine lotion contains the active ingredients zinc oxide and 0.5% iron oxide.
The iron oxide gives calamine lotion its distinctive pink color.
Zinc oxide works as a skin protectant and soothing agent, and ferric oxide gives calamine lotion its famous pink color.
Calamine products may also contain different non-active ingredients depending on what calamine product you're using.
Calamine lotion is an over-the-counter medication used to treat skin conditions.
It relieves itchiness and provides a cooling sensation to the skin.
There are several skin conditions that calamine lotion treats, these include poison ivy, bug bites, and heat rash.
Those who wish to use calamine lotion on small bites, stings, or acne lesions can apply a small amount of the lotion to a cotton wool pad and press it against the affected area.
They should rub the lotion in gently before washing the hands.
You should use calamine lotion for a rash caused by contact dermatitis, such as poison ivy or poison oak rashes.
For severe itching from contact dermatitis, apply hydrocortisone cream 4 times a day until the itch is gone.
But don't use this cream on a fungal rash, because it can make the rash worse.
Calamine is for external use only.
Do not swallow it and do not use it on the eyes or mucous membranes such as the inside of the mouth, nose, genital (sex organs), or anal areas.
To use calamine lotion: Shake the lotion well before using.