Calamine
A zinc-oxide mineral with iron oxide. It soothes irritation and dries blemishes. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A soothing mineral. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Calamine (INCI: Calamine) is a mineral based on zinc oxide with a small share of iron oxide, which gives its pinkish tone. In cosmetics it calms irritated skin, absorbs excess sebum and helps dry small blemishes, which is why it appears in formulas for reactive or acne-prone skin. On efficacy it has a practical, well-established use for symptomatic relief of itch and mild irritation. It is not an acne treatment as such: it mattifies and soothes but does not replace actives like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide when those are needed. In pregnancy and breastfeeding it can be used without issue; topical zinc oxide has no systemic relevance. Tolerance is high, with low irritation and allergy risk. It is one of the gentlest options for sensitive, irritated skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Calamine safe during pregnancy?
Calamine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Calamine for?
Calamine suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Calamine and what does it do in cosmetics?
A zinc-oxide mineral with iron oxide.
What's the INCI name for Calamine?
The INCI name is Calamine.
See Calamine in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
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