Zinc oxide is very effective, but it is not a panacea!

Zinc oxide is deeply loved by people because of its long history and high cost-effectiveness. It has a good effect in treating skin ulcers, dermatitis, eczema, prickly heat, etc. Therefore, many skin care products on the market have zinc oxide added to them, which also shows the great role of zinc oxide. Even so, zinc oxide is not the panacea that people claim it is, because it also follows the rule that "all medicines are poisonous to some extent", and if ulcers, bullae, erosions, and blisters appear on the skin, patients need to avoid using zinc oxide because it will cause greater damage to the skin. Any skin problem requires following the doctor's advice and seeking medical treatment in a timely manner to find scientific and effective treatment methods and restore health as soon as possible.

1. New knowledge about old medicines

Zinc oxide ointment is an over-the-counter topical dermatological medicine with a long history. Its main ingredient, zinc oxide, was recorded in ancient Egypt as early as BC and was used to promote wound healing.

According to the instructions, it is mainly used for acute or subacute dermatitis, eczema, prickly heat and mild, small-area skin ulcers. Its clinical uses also include infant diaper dermatitis (also known as diaper rash or red butt), contact dermatitis, minor burns, insect bites, frostbite, small-area wounds that do not heal for a long time, and postoperative care for laser treatment.

Today, baby powder and sunblock used to treat diaper rash, calamine cream, anti-dandruff shampoo, antibacterial ointment, and sunscreen on the market all contain its main ingredient: zinc oxide.

2. Usage

Zinc oxide ointment is stable in nature, almost non-irritating, not easy to decompose, insoluble in water, and almost not absorbed by the skin. Therefore, there are no contraindications for its use by infants, pregnant women, and the elderly.

Diaper dermatitis (also known as diaper rash or red butt) is a local allergic or inflammatory reaction of the skin caused by the thin and tender skin of infants after being soaked in urine, feces or secretions, as well as irritated by fabrics. It is very common in infants. Zinc oxide ointment can isolate moisture and irritants, astringe the skin, and promote healing in babies with diaper dermatitis.

Zinc oxide ointment is also widely used for adult skin problems, such as erythema and itching (intertriginous dermatitis or immersion dermatitis) in the front of the neck, armpits, and groin area caused by sweating and friction, contact dermatitis caused by plants, subacute eczema, solar dermatitis, minor burns, insect bites, frostbite, long-term non-healing of small wounds, and postoperative care for laser treatment. Zinc oxide ointment can be used with ease.

Other studies have shown that topical zinc oxide ointment can help heal diabetic lower limb ulcers and pressure ulcers (also known as bedsores, which are more common in middle-aged and elderly people who are bedridden for a long time).

3. Notes

Although zinc oxide ointment is widely used and safe, it is not a "universal ointment". Zinc oxide ointment should be avoided as much as possible for acute eczema accompanied by heavy exudation, large-area ulcers, erosions, blisters, bullae and other skin lesions accompanied by wound exudation.

Due to the hygroscopic and astringent effects of zinc oxide particles, it will actually have a slight dehydrating effect on the skin. It is not recommended for long-term use in patients with atopic dermatitis, chronic eczema, senile pruritus, psoriasis vulgaris, etc., which are based on dry skin.

Precautions when using: Avoid contact with eyes and other mucous membranes (such as mouth, nose, etc.); if there is a burning sensation, redness or swelling at the medication site, stop taking the medication and wash off the local medication. Consult a physician if necessary. ; People who are allergic to this product are prohibited from using it, and those with allergic constitutions should use it with caution.