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Overview: Topical zinc oxide is applied to the skin to protect irritated skin and prevent or treat rashes caused by wetness such as diaper rash. It works by forming a barrier that protects the skin from wetness and irritation. Topical zinc oxide is usually well tolerated. Speak with a health care provider if your rash gets worse while using topical zinc oxide or if it does not improve within seven days. Topical zinc oxide is available over-the-counter (OTC) in various forms, including a cream, ointment, paste, and spray.

Uses

What is topical zinc oxide used for?

Topical zinc oxide is commonly used to protect irritated skin. It is also used to prevent and treat rashes caused by exposure to wetness, such as the following.

Topical zinc oxide may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Zinc is also available as a dietary supplement in various strengths and dosage forms. See Zinc Supplements for more information.

Zinc is also available as a prescription product to treat Wilson’s disease, a genetic disorder that causes excessive buildup of copper in the body. See Galzin for more information.

How does topical zinc oxide work (mechanism of action)?

Topical zinc oxide forms a barrier on top of the skin, which helps to protect the skin from wetness and irritation.

How is topical zinc oxide supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Balmex
  • Boudreaux’s Butt Paste
  • Desitin
  • Dr. Smith’s
  • Z-Bum

Example dosage forms and strengths

Topical zinc oxide is available in various strengths and dosage forms that are applied to the skin.

How should I store topical zinc oxide?

Most topical zinc oxide products should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place. Do not freeze. Ask your pharmacist if you are not sure how to store your product.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of topical zinc oxide?

Topical zinc oxide is usually well tolerated. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of topical zinc oxide that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of topical zinc oxide?

While less common, the most serious side effects of topical zinc oxide are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical zinc oxide may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical zinc oxide and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use topical zinc oxide?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical zinc oxide.

  • Balmex
  • Boudreaux’s Butt Paste
  • Desitin
  • Dr. Smith’s
  • Z-Bum
  • Zinc oxide
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical zinc oxide products they stock.

What should I know about topical zinc oxide before using it?

Follow the instructions that come with your topical zinc oxide product. Keep topical zinc oxide out of the reach of children.

Topical zinc oxide is for use on the skin only. Keep topical zinc oxide away from your mouth and eyes. If you get topical zinc oxide in your eyes, wash them right away with water.

Topical zinc oxide comes in many forms that are applied to the skin, including a cream, ointment, paste, and spray. Wash the skin with soap and water and allow the area to dry completely before applying topical zinc oxide. Use enough topical zinc oxide to completely cover the affected area of the skin. If you are using a spray, you may need to shake the bottle well before using.

It is important to remove any clothing or diapers as soon as they get wet. This will help prevent or treat any skin irritation or rashes caused by wetness.

If your symptoms get worse while using topical zinc oxide or they do not get better within seven days, stop using topical zinc oxide and tell your health care provider. If your symptoms get better but return again after a few days, contact your health care provider before using topical zinc oxide again.

Topical zinc oxide can stain clothing and fabric. Use caution when applying.

What should I tell my health care provider before using topical zinc oxide?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if topical zinc oxide is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how topical zinc oxide could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if topical zinc oxide passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does topical zinc oxide interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between topical zinc oxide and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect topical zinc oxide.

Does topical zinc oxide interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between topical zinc oxide and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical zinc oxide?

If you or someone else has used too much topical zinc oxide or swallowed it, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of topical zinc oxide?

Topical zinc oxide is meant to be used only when needed. Follow the instructions on the product label or use it as your health care provider recommends. Do not use double or extra doses.