Zinc oxide is an active ingredient in several different non-prescription products (such as
Desitin®,
Balmex®, and
Boudreaux's Butt Paste®), as well as one prescription
diaper rash ointment (
Vusion® ointment). It is most often found in creams, ointments, or pastes and is typically used to treat or prevent minor skin irritations, such as poison ivy or diaper rash. It is also used in some types of sunscreens. It can also be used as a source of zinc for food fortification or nutritional supplementation.
Zinc oxide also has several non-medicinal uses, such as a pigment for paints or in light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
Zinc oxide is a chemical compound. Its chemical symbol is ZnO. A molecule of zinc oxide consists of one zinc atom bound to one oxygen atom. It is very opaque and can reflect and scatter light, which is why it is useful in a sunblock. When applied to the skin, it helps to protect the skin from outside irritants and may also serve as a mild astringent (helping to dry oozing of minor irritation) and a weak antiseptic.
When used as a nutritional supplement or food additive, zinc oxide is used to supply zinc to the body. Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost all cells of the human body.
When and How to Take Zinc Oxide
Some general considerations for when and how to take zinc oxide include the following:
- Zinc oxide comes in oral form (such as tablets) or in the form of skin cream, ointment, or paste. When applied to the skin, it leaves an opaque white residue.
- Make sure to follow the instructions for your particular zinc oxide skin product. Generally, it is best to apply the skin products in a thick, generous layer (especially when used for treating diaper rash). For most uses on the skin, it is best to apply zinc oxide often.
- When taking it by mouth, make sure to follow the dosing recommendations for your particular product.
There is no standard zinc oxide dosage, per se, when it is used in skin products. However, there are general guidelines available for the use of these products. There are specific dosing guidelines available for oral use of zinc oxide. As is always the case, do not adjust your zinc oxide dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is not likely to cause side effects when used properly. However, some people may develop skin irritation (for skin products) or stomach irritation (for oral products). Severe allergic reactions are also possible.
(Click Zinc Oxide Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Oral zinc oxide may interact with a few medications, but zinc oxide applied to the skin is not known to interact with any medications
(see Zinc Oxide Drug Interactions).
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Using Zinc Oxide?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking zinc oxide if you have:
- An allergy to zinc
- A skin irritation or wound that might be infected.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Zinc Oxide?
Zinc oxide can cause overdose symptoms if it is taken by mouth. Overdose symptoms could include:
- A copper deficiency
- Watery diarrhea
- Coughing
- Kidney problems
- Lethargy
- Fatigue
- Chills and a fever
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Coughing
- Mouth and throat irritation.
If you happen to overdose on zinc oxide, seek immediate medical attention.
Zinc oxide should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Diaper rash products usually contain 10 to 40 percent zinc oxide. Sunscreens tend to contain a little less (often 5 to 10 percent).
