zinc oxide at a glance
Medicine class
Emollient and skin protectant
Licensed uses
Relief of nappy-rash symptoms and protection of dry, chapped skin
Administration
For external use on the skin only
Important allergy check
The selected ointment contains refined arachis oil and must be avoided with peanut or soya allergy
Fire safety
Keep treated clothing, bedding and dressings away from cigarettes, flames and heat sources
What is zinc oxide used for?
The selected product is licensed for topical skin protection and symptom relief.
Relief of symptoms associated with nappy rash
A protective, water-resistant barrier for dry, chapped skin
How does zinc oxide work?
Zinc oxide remains mainly on the skin surface. Its soothing and mildly antiseptic properties complement the ointment’s water-resistant emollient barrier, reducing contact with moisture and other irritants.
How to take zinc oxide
For external use only. Apply directly to clean, dry skin and smooth it on gently. For nappy rash, clean and gently dry the area first. Wash your hands afterwards unless they are being treated.
Do not swallow or use internally.
Do not use if allergic to peanut, soya or another ingredient.
Keep contaminated fabrics away from cigarettes, flames and heat sources. Washing reduces ointment residue but may not remove it completely.
zinc oxide side effects
Common or expected effects
- No specific common adverse effects are listed for the selected product. Local irritation or an allergic skin reaction can occur with topical preparations.
Get urgent medical advice
- A severe allergic reaction causing mouth or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, severe dizziness or collapse requires emergency help.
zinc oxide in pregnancy
Pregnancy safety information for the selected product is unavailable. Ask a pharmacist, midwife or prescriber before using it during pregnancy.
zinc oxide while breastfeeding
Product-specific breastfeeding safety information is unavailable. Avoid direct infant contact with treated skin and seek advice before applying it on or near the breast or nipple.
zinc oxide interactions
No medicine interactions are listed for the selected ointment. Zinc oxide on the skin can obscure some X-ray images, so tell radiography staff about recent application.
Common questions about zinc oxide
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can zinc oxide be used for a baby's nappy rash?
Yes. The selected ointment is licensed for nappy-rash symptom relief and is suitable for children. Seek advice if the rash worsens, spreads or does not settle.
Does it treat infected nappy rash or thrush?
It provides a protective barrier but is not licensed to treat fungal or bacterial infection. A worsening or spreading rash, fever or marked discomfort needs clinical assessment.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.