Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Care Aqueous Calamine Cream - 100g

Care Aqueous Calamine Cream - 100g

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Soothes itching from chicken pox, eczema, and insect bites
  • ✔️ Contains calamine and zinc oxide for dual-action skin relief
  • ✔️ Non-greasy aqueous cream base suitable for sensitive skin
  • ✔️ Safe for adults and children aged one year and over
  • ✔️ Provides fast cooling relief to irritated, itchy skin

Price Checker

Regular price £2.99
Sale price £2.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Is Aqueous Calamine Cream and How Does It Help?

 

If you've ever dealt with the relentless itch of chicken pox, a flare-up of eczema, or an angry insect bite, you'll know how difficult it is to resist scratching. Aqueous calamine cream has been a trusted go-to remedy in UK households for decades — and for good reason. Care Aqueous Calamine Cream 100g is a simple, affordable, over-the-counter topical preparation that helps calm irritated skin and ease that maddening urge to scratch. At just £2.99, it's one of the most accessible skin relief options available. You can browse the full range of creams and ointments at Cured Pharmacy if you're looking for additional topical treatments.

The cream contains two active ingredients: calamine 4% w/w and zinc oxide 3% w/w. Both are well-established in dermatological use and have a long safety record. Unlike some medicated creams, this formulation is non-greasy and absorbs relatively quickly, making it practical for daytime use — even on children.

 

How Does Care Aqueous Calamine Cream Work on Skin?

 

The mechanism is straightforward, which is part of what makes this cream so reliable. It doesn't suppress the immune system or alter skin biology in any complex way. Instead, it works through a combination of physical and mild chemical actions:

  • Cooling effect: As the cream is applied and begins to dry, it produces a gentle cooling sensation on the skin surface. This counteracts the heat and irritation that drive itching.
  • Nerve distraction: The cooling sensation stimulates different nerve receptors, effectively reducing the itch signal sent to the brain.
  • Astringent action: Zinc oxide has mild astringent properties, which help to reduce minor inflammation and weeping in irritated skin.
  • Skin protection: Zinc oxide also forms a light protective barrier over the skin, helping to shield it from further irritation while it heals.

It's worth noting that this cream doesn't treat the underlying cause of conditions like eczema or chicken pox — it manages the symptom of itching. That's an important distinction, particularly if you're dealing with a recurring skin condition.

 

Who Is Care Aqueous Calamine Cream Suitable For?

 

This cream is suitable for a wide range of people and skin complaints. It's particularly useful when you need fast, gentle relief without reaching for a steroid cream or antihistamine. That said, it's always worth checking with your pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's right for your situation.

It tends to suit people who:

  • Have chicken pox and need to manage itching, especially in children
  • Experience mild eczema flare-ups with surface-level irritation
  • Have insect bites, nettle stings, or heat rash
  • Are looking for a non-steroidal option for sensitive or reactive skin

It is generally not recommended for use on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin without medical guidance. If you're managing a more complex skin condition, your GP or pharmacist may suggest additional treatments alongside this cream.

 

How Does Aqueous Calamine Cream Compare to Calamine Lotion?

 

Feature Care Aqueous Calamine Cream Calamine Lotion
Formulation Cream (water-based, moisturising) Liquid suspension
Finish on skin Soft, non-powdery Dries to a pink, chalky residue
Suitable for dry skin Yes — less drying Less ideal — can dry skin further
Ease of application Easy to spread, no shaking needed Requires shaking before use

 

Is Care Aqueous Calamine Cream Safe to Store and Use Long-Term?

 

Storage is simple. Keep the tube below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and out of reach of children. Once opened, check the product hasn't changed in colour or consistency before each use. The cream is intended for short-term symptomatic relief — if you find yourself reaching for it repeatedly over several weeks, it's worth speaking to your GP to rule out an underlying condition that may need a different approach.

If you're also managing skin conditions like psoriasis or more persistent eczema, you might find it helpful to explore the wider skin care range at Cured Pharmacy for complementary options. This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Care Aqueous Calamine Cream 100g specifications
Treatment category Skin care / Antipruritic
Mechanism of action Cooling and astringent action via calamine and zinc oxide
Effective for Itching, chicken pox, eczema, insect bites, heat rash
Suitable for Adults and children (consult pharmacist for infants under 12 months)
Active ingredient Calamine 4% w/w, Zinc Oxide 3% w/w
Pack size 100g
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Antipruritic / Skin protectant
Preparation Aqueous cream
Route of administration Topical (external use only)

Specifications of Care Aqueous Calamine Cream 100g

 

What Is Care Aqueous Calamine Cream and What Is It Used For?

 

Care Aqueous Calamine Cream is a topical, over-the-counter skin preparation used to relieve itching and irritation associated with a range of common skin conditions. It contains calamine 4% w/w and zinc oxide 3% w/w in an aqueous (water-based) cream base. The NHS recommends calamine preparations as a first-line option for managing the itch of chicken pox, and the cream is equally useful for mild eczema flare-ups, insect bites, nettle stings, prickly heat, and minor sunburn irritation. It does not treat the underlying cause of any skin condition — its role is purely symptomatic relief.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

 

Before applying this cream, there are a few important points to consider. Most people tolerate it well, but it isn't suitable for every situation.

Do not use this cream if:

  • You are allergic to calamine, zinc oxide, or any other ingredient in the formulation
  • The skin is broken, severely cracked, or shows signs of infection (such as oozing, crusting, or increasing redness)
  • You are applying it near the eyes or mucous membranes

Warnings and precautions:

  • For external use only — do not swallow
  • Keep away from eyes; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water
  • Consult your pharmacist or GP before use in infants under 12 months
  • If your skin condition worsens or does not improve within 7 days, seek medical advice
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding? Topical calamine is generally considered low-risk, but always check with your midwife or GP first

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topically applied calamine cream
  • If you are using other topical preparations on the same area, apply them at separate times and seek pharmacist advice to avoid interference

 

How Should You Use Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

 

Using this cream correctly makes a real difference to how effective it feels. Follow these steps each time you apply it:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application
  2. Clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water, then pat dry
  3. Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip
  4. Apply a thin, even layer directly to the itchy or irritated skin
  5. Smooth gently — do not rub vigorously, especially over chicken pox spots
  6. Allow the cream to absorb before covering with clothing
  7. Repeat up to 3–4 times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist

For children with chicken pox, you may find it easier to use cotton wool or a soft pad to dab the cream on rather than rubbing. This is gentler on sore, sensitive spots. If you're also looking for products to support your child's recovery, the baby and toddler range at Cured Pharmacy includes a variety of suitable options.

Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Chicken pox itching Children (1 year+) Thin layer to affected area 3–4 times daily
Insect bites / stings Adults and children Thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily as needed
Mild eczema / heat rash Adults Thin layer to affected area Up to 4 times daily

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

 

Side effects with this cream are uncommon, but it's worth knowing what to look out for. Most people use it without any problems at all.

Common side effects (may affect a small number of users):

  • Mild stinging or tingling immediately after application
  • Temporary dryness of the skin at the application site

Less common side effects:

  • Skin redness or irritation that wasn't present before use
  • Allergic contact dermatitis — a localised rash, itching, or swelling that develops after application

If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction — including hives, significant swelling, or difficulty breathing — stop using the cream immediately and seek urgent medical attention. Serious allergic reactions to calamine cream are rare but possible.

 

How Should You Store Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

 

Proper storage keeps the cream effective and safe to use throughout its shelf life. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused product to your pharmacy

If you're managing multiple skin conditions and need a broader range of topical treatments, take a look at the skin care collection at Cured Pharmacy for further options.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy aqueous calamine cream online in the UK?

You can buy Care Aqueous Calamine Cream 100g directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £2.99, with fast UK delivery. It's a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, so no prescription is needed. You can also browse the full creams and ointments range for related topical treatments.

How does aqueous calamine cream work to relieve itching?

Calamine produces a gentle cooling sensation as it evaporates from the skin, which helps to interrupt the itch signal sent to the brain. Zinc oxide adds mild astringent and skin-protective properties, reducing minor inflammation at the surface. Together, these two ingredients provide short-term symptomatic relief without affecting the underlying cause of the itch.

Can I use calamine cream on chicken pox spots?

Yes — the NHS specifically recommends calamine preparations to help manage the itching caused by chicken pox. Apply a thin layer gently to the spots using a soft pad or cotton wool rather than rubbing. Avoiding scratching is important to reduce the risk of scarring or secondary bacterial infection.

How do I apply Care Aqueous Calamine Cream step by step?

Start by washing your hands and cleaning the affected area with mild soap and water, then pat dry. Apply a thin layer of the cream to the itchy skin and smooth gently — don't rub hard, especially over inflamed or broken areas. Repeat up to 3–4 times daily as needed, and always wash your hands again afterwards.

Is calamine cream safe to use on children?

Care Aqueous Calamine Cream is generally considered safe for children aged 1 year and over, and is widely used for chicken pox relief in this age group. For infants under 12 months, always consult your pharmacist or GP before use. Keep the cream away from the child's eyes and mouth at all times.

What are the side effects of calamine cream?

Side effects are uncommon but can include mild stinging or tingling immediately after application, and occasional skin dryness. Rarely, some people may develop an allergic contact reaction with localised redness, swelling, or a new rash. If any of these occur, stop using the cream and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

What is the difference between calamine cream and calamine lotion?

Calamine lotion is a liquid suspension that dries to a visible pink, chalky residue on the skin, while aqueous calamine cream has a moisturising water-based formulation that absorbs more smoothly. The cream is generally better suited to dry or sensitive skin, as it is less drying than the lotion. Both contain the same active ingredients — calamine and zinc oxide.

Can I use calamine cream on eczema?

Calamine cream can help relieve the surface itching associated with mild eczema flare-ups, but it does not treat the underlying inflammation. For more persistent or severe eczema, your GP may recommend additional treatments such as emollients or topical corticosteroids. You can explore further options in the skin care collection at Cured Pharmacy.

How long can I use calamine cream for?

Calamine cream is intended for short-term use to manage acute itching and irritation. If your symptoms haven't improved within 7 days of regular use, or if they worsen at any point, you should stop using the cream and consult your pharmacist or GP. Prolonged use without improvement may indicate an underlying condition that needs a different treatment approach.

What is the best time to apply calamine cream?

There is no fixed time of day — apply the cream whenever itching is most bothersome, up to 3–4 times daily. Many people find it particularly helpful at bedtime, as itching often intensifies at night and can disrupt sleep. Applying it after a cool bath or shower, when the skin is clean and slightly damp, can also enhance the soothing effect.

What happens if I accidentally get calamine cream in my eyes?

If the cream comes into contact with your eyes, rinse immediately and thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for several minutes. If irritation, redness, or discomfort persists after rinsing, seek medical advice promptly. Always take care to avoid the eye area when applying the cream to the face.

Can I use calamine cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Topical calamine cream is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. However, you should always check with your midwife, GP, or pharmacist before using any new medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Avoid applying to the nipple area if breastfeeding.

What are the alternatives to calamine cream for itching?

Alternatives include oral antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine for more widespread itching, hydrocortisone 1% cream for inflammatory skin conditions, and simple emollients for dry, itchy skin. The right choice depends on the cause of your itching, so speak to your pharmacist if you're unsure. You can also explore the broader skin care range for other topical options.

Is calamine cream suitable for insect bites and stings?

Yes — calamine cream is a well-recognised remedy for the itching and mild irritation caused by insect bites and stings. The NHS lists calamine lotion and cream as useful options for managing bite reactions at home. Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2–3 times daily until the irritation settles.

What does the latest guidance say about using calamine for skin conditions?

Current NHS guidance continues to recommend calamine preparations as a safe, first-line option for symptomatic relief of itching in conditions such as chicken pox, insect bites, and mild skin irritation. The BNF lists calamine as an antipruritic with a well-established safety profile for topical use. It remains one of the most widely recommended non-prescription options for short-term itch relief in the UK.

How Should You Use Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

Using this cream correctly is straightforward, but a few simple steps will help you get the most out of it. Always apply to clean, dry skin and avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, or any open wounds.

For children with chicken pox, dabbing the cream on with cotton wool is gentler than spreading with fingers. If you're applying to a large area, work in sections to ensure even coverage.

What Is the Correct Dose of Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

There is no fixed measured dose for topical calamine cream — the amount you use depends on the size of the affected area. Apply enough to cover the skin with a thin layer, without excess. The table below gives a general guide based on indication and age group.

When Is the Best Time to Use Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

Apply the cream whenever itching is most troublesome — there is no strict time-of-day requirement. Many people find it especially helpful at bedtime, as itching tends to worsen at night and can interfere with sleep. Applying after a cool bath or shower, when the skin is clean and slightly cooled, can also enhance the soothing effect and help the cream absorb more effectively.

If you're using other topical preparations on the same area, leave a gap of at least 30 minutes between applications to avoid diluting either product's effect. Ask your pharmacist if you're unsure about combining treatments.

How Long Can You Use Care Aqueous Calamine Cream For?

This cream is designed for short-term symptomatic relief. For most acute conditions — such as chicken pox, insect bites, or heat rash — symptoms should begin to settle within a few days of regular use. If your symptoms have not improved after 7 days of consistent application, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the cream and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Repeated or prolonged use without improvement may suggest an underlying skin condition that requires a different treatment. Do not use this cream as a long-term substitute for a proper diagnosis and management plan from a healthcare professional.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

Most people use Care Aqueous Calamine Cream without experiencing any side effects at all. It has a well-established safety profile and is widely used across all age groups. That said, as with any topical preparation, a small number of people may notice mild reactions at the application site.

  • Mild stinging or tingling immediately after application
  • Temporary dryness or tightness of the skin in the treated area
  • A slight cooling sensation that may feel uncomfortable on very sensitive skin

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

Less commonly, some individuals may develop a localised skin reaction after using the cream. This is more likely in people with a history of sensitive or reactive skin, or those with known allergies to zinc-based compounds.

  • Redness or increased irritation at the application site
  • Mild swelling or puffiness around the treated area
  • A new or worsening rash that was not present before use
  • Allergic contact dermatitis — a delayed hypersensitivity reaction causing itching, blistering, or scaling

If you notice any of these reactions, stop using the cream immediately and consult your pharmacist or GP. Do not continue applying in the hope that the reaction will settle on its own.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Care Aqueous Calamine Cream?

Serious side effects are rare with topically applied calamine cream, as systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. However, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is possible in very rare cases, particularly in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient in the formulation.

Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following after applying the cream:

  • Sudden widespread rash, hives, or urticaria
  • Significant swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or feeling faint

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild reactions such as stinging or temporary dryness, simply stop applying the cream and allow the skin to settle. Cool the area with a damp cloth if needed. If the reaction is more significant — such as a spreading rash or increasing redness — wash the cream off gently with cool water and seek pharmacist advice before using the product again.

You should report any suspected side effects from medicines to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps to monitor the safety of medicines used in the UK.

Can Care Aqueous Calamine Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions have been identified for topically applied calamine cream. Because the active ingredients are not meaningfully absorbed into the bloodstream through intact skin, the risk of systemic interactions with oral or injectable medicines is considered negligible. If you are using other topical preparations on the same area of skin — such as emollients, steroid creams, or antifungal treatments — apply them at separate times and ask your pharmacist for guidance on the correct order of application.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery