Zinc Oxide: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Zinc Oxide is a topical skin protectant and mild astringent used for the following indications, classified by strength of evidence:

Established / OTC-monograph indications

• Diaper rash — treatment and prevention of diaper dermatitis in infants and young children by forming a physical barrier against moisture, urine, and stool.
• Minor skin irritations — protection and symptomatic relief of chafed or irritated skin, minor cuts, scrapes, and minor burns.
• Poison ivy, oak, and sumac exposure — used as a drying agent to help dry the oozing and weeping caused by these plants.

Adjunct / other approved uses

• Physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredient — in combination sunscreen formulations, Zinc Oxide acts as a broad-spectrum UV-A/UV-B physical blocker.
• General skin-protectant use — as an ingredient in barrier creams, ointments, and pastes intended to protect skin from external irritants and moisture.

Other/niche uses

Zinc Oxide is also used in some ophthalmic and dermatological preparations and topical pastes (e.g., calamine-type formulations) for its mild astringent and protective properties. These niche uses are formulation-specific and should follow product labeling.

For diaper rash (infants and children)

Clean and thoroughly dry the diaper area. Apply Zinc Oxide ointment/cream liberally to the affected area with each diaper change, especially at bedtime or whenever exposure to a wet diaper may be prolonged.

For minor skin irritation, minor burns, or cuts

Clean the affected area and apply Zinc Oxide ointment/cream as a thin to liberal layer, as often as necessary, to the affected skin.

For poison ivy, oak, or sumac exposure

Apply Zinc Oxide liberally to the affected area as needed to help dry oozing or weeping skin.

As a sunscreen ingredient

Apply the Zinc Oxide-containing sunscreen product generously to exposed skin before sun exposure, and reapply as directed on the specific product label (typically every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating/towel-drying).

For external use only. Do not apply to deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns without medical advice (see Precautions).

Zinc Oxide is generally very well tolerated when used topically as directed, with minimal systemic absorption.

• Mild, local skin irritation, dryness, or a transient stinging sensation at the site of application (uncommon).
• Allergic contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity reaction (rare) — see Contraindications.

Serious adverse effects are rare with topical use. Discontinue use and seek medical advice if a rash, worsening irritation, or signs of infection develop.