Zinc Oxide Folk Remedy
Modified on Apr 04, 2017
Zinc oxide is a simple combination of zinc and oxygen. It has been used historically in topical preparations for diaper rash, a variety of skin conditions and as an ingredient in sunscreen. Zinc oxide has a long standing reputation as a safe natural remedy. The body needs zinc for proper immune function and skin repair, among many other processes. Zinc oxide has other uses in industry and is also used as a food additive.
Benefits of Zinc Oxide
- Poison Ivy
- Poison Oak
- Insect Bites
- Eczema
- Dermatitis
- Acne
- Wounds
- Leg Ulcers
- Burns
- Sunburn
- Diaper Rash
- Deodorant Alternative
Zinc Oxide in Calamine Lotion
Likely you are familiar with calamine lotion. Calamine lotion, a combination of zinc oxide, ferric oxide, phenol, and calcium hydroxide, has been in use for literally thousands of years! It is an inexpensive preparation that is used to treat sunburn, bug bites, poison ivy, and chicken pox. Zinc oxide has astringent properties, and ferric oxide has anti-itch properties. The combination works well for a variety of skin disorders.
Zinc Oxide in Sunscreen
Zinc oxide is used in sunscreen to block UBA and UVB light. The zinc oxide will leave a white coating on your skin. Some sunscreen contains smaller particles of zinc oxide (nanoparticles) which do not leave your skin white. There is some controversy as to whether or not the nanoparticle zinc absorbs into the skin. Study results differ on this issue. To play it safe, if you use a lot of sunscreen on a regular basis, you might want to avoid the type with nanoparticles of zinc. Better yet, avoid being out in the sun when the UV light is strongest – 10 am – 3 pm, or wear lightweight long sleeves, long pants and a hat during the hours of peak sunlight.
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