Uses for zinc oxide Cream

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Drug Factsheets

How does Zinc Oxide Cream work? What will it do for me?

Zinc oxide is a topical skin product that is used as a protective coating for mild skin irritations and abrasions. It can promote the healing of chapped skin and diaper rash. Zinc oxide works as a mild astringent and has some antiseptic properties.

Zinc oxide is commonly used to prevent or to treat diaper rash by forming a protective barrier between the skin and the diaper. Moderate concentrations (e.g., 15%) are usually used for prevention and maintenance of diaper rash. Higher concentrations (up to 40%) may have absorptive properties and are usually used for treatment of diaper rash.

Your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or pharmacist or are not sure why you are using this medication, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use Zinc Oxide Cream?

This medication is normally applied to the affected areas several times daily on an as needed basis. Be sure to wash the affected area with soap and water and dry thoroughly before applying zinc oxide.

To treat diaper rash, zinc oxide is normally applied at every diaper change until the redness disappears. To prevent diaper rash from occurring, zinc oxide is normally applied daily. For best results, be sure to change your baby's diaper frequently and keep the area clean and dry.

It is important that this medication be used or given exactly as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Zinc Oxide Cream come in?

Zinc Oxide Cream is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada. For brands that may still be available, search under zinc oxide. This article is being kept available for reference purposes only. If you are using this medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for information about your treatment options.