Products
Zinc oxide is contained in zinc ointments, shaking mixtures, in sunscreens, skin care products, hemorrhoid ointments, baby care products, cosmetics and wound healing ointments, among others. Zinc oxide is also combined with other active ingredients in a fixed manner and traditionally numerous magistral formulations have been made with the active ingredient. Its medicinal use dates back to ancient times.
Structure and properties
Zinc oxide (ZnO, Mr = 81.4 g/mol) exists as a white to slightly yellowish white, amorphous, soft, and odorless powder that is practically insoluble in water. It is a naturally occurring inorganic substance. When heated, for example with a Bunsen burner, zinc oxide turns yellow and when cooled it turns white again. Structure: ZnO
Effects
Preparations containing zinc oxide have drying, astringent, skin-protecting, skin-caring, wound-healing, and mild antiseptic properties. The effects are based on the release of zinc ions from the ointment.
Indications for use
Preparations containing zinc oxide are used for the following indications, among others (selection):
- Moist and weeping skin diseases, e.g. soreness and weeping eczema.
- Diaper dermatitis
- Intertrigo (skin wolf)
- Hemorrhoids
- Supportive treatment for skin infections, such as fungal infections or bacterial infections.
- Minor skin damage such as open and cracked skin, scratch wounds, abrasions and cuts.
- As a protective ointment
- To support wound healing
- As an inorganic and photostable filter in sunscreens.
- For skin care
Dosage
According to the professional information. The agents are usually applied locally one to several times a day .
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
The preparations should not be applied simultaneously with other topical medicines because their effect may be reduced.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects of the preparations include hypersensitivity reactions, especially due to excipients such as lanolin. Sunscreens containing zinc oxide may cause whitening of the skin (“whitening effect”) and dry out the skin. This effect is less pronounced when nanoparticles are used.
