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Numark Calamine Lotion BP Calamine and Zinc Oxide

Numark Calamine Lotion BP Calamine and Zinc Oxide

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  • ✔️ Soothes itching from chickenpox, bites, and sunburn
  • ✔️ Zinc oxide calms inflammation and protects skin
  • ✔️ Cooling effect provides fast-acting itch relief
  • ✔️ Steroid-free formula suitable for adults and children
  • ✔️ British Pharmacopoeia standard — trusted quality assured

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What Is Calamine Lotion and How Does It Soothe Skin?

 

If you have ever dealt with the relentless itch of chickenpox, insect bites, or a patch of irritated skin, you will know how much relief a simple, trusted remedy can bring. Calamine lotion has been used in the UK for generations precisely because it works — gently, safely, and without fuss. Numark Calamine Lotion BP contains two active ingredients, calamine 15% w/v and zinc oxide 5% w/v, formulated to the British Pharmacopoeia standard. At just £2.99, it is one of the most affordable and accessible skin-soothing options available over the counter. You can browse the full range of skin care products at Cured Pharmacy if you are looking for something more targeted alongside this lotion.

This lotion is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning you do not need a prescription to buy it. It is suitable for adults, children, and the elderly, though you should always check with a pharmacist if you are unsure whether it is right for a particular person or condition.

 

How Does Numark Calamine Lotion BP Work on Irritated Skin?

 

The mechanism behind calamine lotion is straightforward but effective. When you apply it to the skin, the water in the lotion evaporates and produces a gentle cooling sensation — this is what immediately takes the edge off that maddening itch. The two active ingredients each play a distinct role:

  • Calamine — a mixture of zinc carbonate and ferric oxide — acts as a mild antipruritic (anti-itch) agent and gives the lotion its characteristic pink colour.
  • Zinc oxide acts as a mild astringent, helping to reduce inflammation, protect the skin barrier, and dry out any weeping or oozing areas.
  • Together, they create a thin, protective film on the skin surface that reduces irritation and helps prevent scratching-related damage.
  • The lotion base also contains glycerol, which provides a degree of skin moisturisation as it dries.

It does not contain steroids or antihistamines, so it is unlikely to cause the systemic effects associated with those medicines. That makes it a reassuring first-line option for many common skin complaints.

 

Who Is Numark Calamine Lotion BP Suitable For?

 

This lotion is designed for anyone experiencing mild to moderate skin irritation where itching is the primary symptom. It is particularly well suited to:

  • Children and adults with chickenpox (varicella) — to relieve itching and discourage scratching
  • People with insect bites or stings causing localised itching and redness
  • Those with mild sunburn where the skin feels hot and irritated
  • Anyone with a mild allergic skin reaction causing itching without broken skin

It is not suitable for use on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin without medical advice. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your pharmacist before use, though topical calamine is generally considered low risk. For bite-related reactions that also involve sneezing or watery eyes, you might also want to explore allergy and hay fever treatments alongside this lotion.

 

How Does Numark Calamine Lotion Compare to Other Itch Relief Options?

 

Feature Numark Calamine Lotion BP Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
Active ingredient Calamine 15%, Zinc Oxide 5% Hydrocortisone 1%
Suitable for chickenpox Yes No — contraindicated
Contains steroids No Yes (mild corticosteroid)
UK classification GSL (General Sale List) Pharmacy (P) medicine
Suitable for children Yes (all ages, with care) Not under 10 without advice

 

Is Calamine Lotion Safe to Store at Home and Use Long Term?

 

Numark Calamine Lotion BP should be stored below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and kept out of the reach and sight of children. The bottle should be shaken well before each use, as the ingredients can settle. Once opened, check the expiry date on the packaging and do not use beyond it. Calamine lotion is intended for short-term, symptomatic relief — it is not a treatment for the underlying cause of a skin condition. If your symptoms persist for more than seven days or worsen, you should seek advice from your GP or pharmacist. For broader skin health support, the creams and ointments collection at Cured Pharmacy includes a range of options for different skin concerns.

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.

Numark Calamine Lotion BP Calamine and Zinc Oxide specifications
Treatment category Skin care / Antipruritic
Mechanism of action Cooling evaporation, mild astringent, skin protectant
Effective for Itching, mild skin irritation, insect bites, chickenpox, mild sunburn
Suitable for Adults, children, elderly (with pharmacist advice for infants)
Active ingredient Calamine 15% w/v, Zinc Oxide 5% w/v
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Antipruritic / Skin protectant
Preparation Topical lotion
Route of administration Topical (applied to skin)

Specifications of Numark Calamine Lotion BP Calamine and Zinc Oxide

 

What Is Numark Calamine Lotion BP and What Is It Used For?

 

Numark Calamine Lotion BP is a topical, over-the-counter skin preparation containing calamine 15% w/v and zinc oxide 5% w/v. It is used to relieve itching and soothe irritated skin associated with a range of common conditions. The NHS recommends calamine lotion as a first-line option for managing the itch of chickenpox in both children and adults. It can also be used for insect bites and stings, mild sunburn, and other causes of localised skin irritation where the skin is not broken or infected.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

 

Before applying this lotion, read the following carefully. Do not use it if any of the contraindications below apply to you.

Do not use this product if you:

  • Are allergic to calamine, zinc oxide, or any other ingredient in the lotion
  • Have broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin at the site of application
  • Have a known skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis without first seeking pharmacist or GP advice
  • Are applying it near the eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes

Warnings and precautions:

  • For external use only — do not swallow
  • Keep away from the eyes; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your pharmacist before use
  • If symptoms worsen or do not improve within seven days, seek medical advice
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children

Drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions are known for topically applied calamine lotion
  • Avoid applying alongside other topical preparations to the same area without pharmacist advice, as this may affect absorption or efficacy

 

How Should You Use Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

 

Always use this product exactly as described below or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not apply more than recommended.

  1. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed.
  2. Clean and gently pat dry the affected area of skin.
  3. Apply a small amount of lotion to a clean cotton wool pad or use clean fingertips.
  4. Dab or smooth the lotion gently onto the affected area — do not rub vigorously.
  5. Allow the lotion to dry naturally on the skin. Do not cover with an airtight dressing unless advised by a healthcare professional.
  6. Wash your hands after application unless the hands themselves are the treated area.
  7. Repeat up to three or four times daily as needed, or as directed by your pharmacist.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Chickenpox itching Children and adults Apply a thin layer to affected areas Up to 3–4 times daily
Insect bites / stings Adults and children Apply to affected area As needed, up to 3–4 times daily
Mild sunburn Adults and children Apply to affected area As needed for relief

If you are looking for additional first aid essentials to keep at home alongside this lotion, the first aid collection at Cured Pharmacy has a wide range of useful products.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

 

Like all medicines, this product can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Calamine lotion is generally very well tolerated when used as directed.

Common side effects:

  • Mild skin dryness at the application site — this is due to the astringent effect of zinc oxide
  • A temporary white or pink residue on the skin as the lotion dries

Less common side effects:

  • Mild skin irritation or a burning sensation at the application site
  • Contact dermatitis (allergic skin reaction) — rare, but possible if you are sensitive to any ingredient
  • Redness or worsening of the treated area

If you experience any signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash — stop using the lotion immediately and seek urgent medical attention. For children with chickenpox, the NHS advises keeping nails short and using mittens at night to prevent scratching, alongside the use of calamine lotion for itch relief.

 

How Should You Store Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of this product. Follow these instructions carefully:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat
  • Do not freeze
  • Keep the bottle 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 bottle or packaging
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacist for safe disposal

If you are managing a child's skin condition and need additional support products, the baby and toddler range at Cured Pharmacy includes a variety of gentle, age-appropriate 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 calamine lotion online in the UK?

You can buy Numark Calamine Lotion BP online in the UK from Cured Pharmacy for just £2.99, with no prescription required. It is a General Sale List medicine, so it is available without a consultation. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched promptly to your address.

How does calamine lotion work to relieve itching?

Calamine lotion works through two main mechanisms: the water in the lotion evaporates from the skin surface, creating a cooling sensation that immediately reduces the urge to scratch. The zinc oxide component acts as a mild astringent, helping to calm inflammation and protect the skin barrier. Together, these effects provide temporary but meaningful relief from itching caused by chickenpox, insect bites, and similar conditions.

How do I apply Numark Calamine Lotion step by step?

Shake the bottle well before use, then apply the lotion to the affected area using a clean cotton wool pad or your fingertips. Dab it gently onto the skin rather than rubbing, and allow it to dry naturally. You can repeat this up to three or four times daily as needed for itch relief.

Can I use calamine lotion on my child with chickenpox?

Yes — the NHS specifically recommends calamine lotion as a way to soothe the itching associated with chickenpox in children. Apply it gently to the affected spots and allow it to dry. Keep your child's nails short and consider cotton mittens at night to reduce scratching, which can lead to scarring or secondary infection.

What is the correct dose of calamine lotion for adults?

For adults, apply a thin layer of calamine lotion to the affected area of skin up to three or four times daily, or as directed by your pharmacist. There is no fixed quantity per application — use enough to cover the irritated area with a thin, even coat. Do not apply to large areas of the body without seeking pharmacist advice first.

What are the side effects of Numark Calamine Lotion?

Most people tolerate calamine lotion very well. The most common side effect is mild skin dryness at the application site, caused by the astringent action of zinc oxide. Rarely, some people may experience mild irritation or a contact allergic reaction — if this happens, stop using the lotion and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Is calamine lotion safe to use during pregnancy?

Calamine lotion is applied topically and systemic absorption is considered minimal, so it is generally regarded as low risk during pregnancy. However, you should always speak to your pharmacist or midwife before using any medicine when pregnant, just to be sure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Can I use calamine lotion on sunburn?

Yes, calamine lotion can help soothe the discomfort of mild sunburn by providing a cooling effect and reducing skin irritation. The NHS advises cooling the skin with cool water or a damp cloth first, and calamine lotion can then be applied for additional relief. For severe sunburn with blistering or systemic symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

How long can I use calamine lotion for?

Calamine lotion is intended for short-term symptomatic relief and should not be used continuously for more than seven days without seeking medical advice. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other signs such as fever or spreading redness, consult your GP. It is not a treatment for the underlying cause of a skin condition.

What is the difference between calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream?

Calamine lotion soothes and cools itchy skin using calamine and zinc oxide — it contains no steroids and is suitable for chickenpox. Hydrocortisone cream contains a mild corticosteroid and is used for inflammatory conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis, but is contraindicated in chickenpox and should not be used on children under 10 without medical advice. You can explore a wider range of creams and ointments at Cured Pharmacy to find the right option for your needs.

Who should not use calamine lotion?

You should not use calamine lotion if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, including calamine or zinc oxide. It should also be avoided on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin without medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure whether it is suitable for your specific skin condition.

Does calamine lotion help with insect bites and stings?

Yes — calamine lotion is one of the remedies recommended for relieving the itch and irritation caused by insect bites and stings. The NHS advises applying it to the affected area to help reduce discomfort. If you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or dizziness after a sting, call 999 immediately.

What are the alternatives to calamine lotion for itchy skin?

Alternatives include antihistamine creams (such as those containing diphenhydramine), hydrocortisone 1% cream for inflammatory conditions, and cooling gels containing aloe vera for sunburn. For allergy-related itching that also causes sneezing or a runny nose, oral antihistamines may be more appropriate — you can find a range of allergy treatments at Cured Pharmacy. The right choice depends on the cause of your itching, so ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

What are the latest findings on calamine lotion for skin conditions?

Calamine lotion has a long-established safety and efficacy profile for symptomatic itch relief, and it remains a recommended option in NHS guidance for chickenpox and insect bites. It is not the subject of recent clinical trials in the same way as newer medicines, but its continued inclusion in NHS and BNF guidance reflects its well-understood and reliable role in skin care. No new safety concerns have been identified in recent years.

How should I store Numark Calamine Lotion at home?

Store Numark Calamine Lotion below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use and always keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the lotion after the expiry date printed on the packaging, and return any unused medicine to your pharmacist for safe disposal.

How Should You Use Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

Always shake the bottle well before each application, as the active ingredients can settle at the bottom. Apply the lotion to clean, dry skin using a cotton wool pad or clean fingertips, dabbing gently rather than rubbing to avoid further irritating the skin.

What Is the Correct Dose of Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

There is no fixed volume per application — apply enough lotion to cover the affected area with a thin, even layer. The table below provides guidance based on the indication and age group.

When Is the Best Time to Use Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

You can apply calamine lotion at any time of day when itching or irritation is troublesome. Many people find it particularly helpful at bedtime, as itching often feels worse at night and can disrupt sleep — applying the lotion before bed may help reduce the urge to scratch. For chickenpox in children, applying it after a lukewarm bath can enhance the soothing effect.

How Long Can You Use Numark Calamine Lotion BP For?

This lotion is designed for short-term use only. You should not use it continuously for more than seven days without seeking advice from your pharmacist or GP. If the condition causing your itching has not improved within this time, or if symptoms worsen at any point, stop using the lotion and consult a healthcare professional. Prolonged use without medical supervision is not recommended.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

Calamine lotion is generally very well tolerated and serious side effects are uncommon. The most frequently reported effect is mild skin dryness at the site of application, which occurs because zinc oxide has an astringent action that can draw moisture from the skin surface. You may also notice a white or pink residue left on the skin as the lotion dries — this is entirely normal and not a cause for concern.

  • Mild skin dryness at the application site
  • Temporary white or pink residue on the skin as the lotion dries
  • Slight tightening sensation of the skin after application

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

A small number of people may experience mild irritation or discomfort at the application site, particularly if the skin is already sensitive or inflamed. These reactions are usually mild and resolve quickly once you stop using the product.

  • Mild burning or stinging sensation on application
  • Localised redness or increased irritation at the treated area
  • Contact dermatitis — an allergic skin reaction causing itching, redness, or a rash

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

Serious side effects from topically applied calamine lotion are rare. However, if you develop signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), you must seek emergency medical help immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a widespread skin rash, dizziness, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Do not ignore these symptoms — call 999 without delay.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Numark Calamine Lotion BP?

If you notice any mild side effects such as dryness or slight irritation, you can usually manage these by reducing the frequency of application or moisturising the area with an unperfumed emollient after the lotion has dried. If side effects are more troublesome or do not settle, stop using the lotion and speak to your pharmacist. They can advise on whether an alternative product might be more suitable for your skin type or condition.

Can Numark Calamine Lotion BP Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant interactions between topically applied calamine lotion and other medicines have been identified. Because it is applied to the skin and systemic absorption is minimal, the risk of interactions with oral or other topical medicines is very low. That said, you should avoid applying calamine lotion to the same area of skin as another topical preparation at the same time, unless your pharmacist or GP has advised it is safe to do so. If you are using multiple skin treatments, ask your pharmacist for guidance on the correct order and timing 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

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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