Calazin cream

Calazin Cream is a topical cream containing zinc oxide and calamine as its key active ingredients, formulated in a cream, rather than liquid suspension, base together with moisturising agents. It is sold over the counter in Malaysia in a 15g tube, and its cream format is designed for direct application to small, localised areas of skin, such as those in the nappy area, or areas of minor skin chafing or other superficial skin conditions, where a barrier-type cream is preferred over a liquid lotion.

Compared with a liquid calamine suspension lotion in the same product family, Calazin Cream’s semi-solid cream base allows it to remain in place on the skin for longer without needing to be shaken before use, and its labelling indicates suitability across a wide age range including infants, though as with any topical product used on infant skin, the product carton and package insert should be checked and a pharmacist consulted if there is any uncertainty.

Zinc oxide and calamine, zinc oxide combined with a small proportion of ferric oxide, form a physical barrier layer on the surface of the skin once applied, with a mild astringent and drying action on the outer skin layer. The cream base itself, containing moisturising and emollient agents, sits on top of the skin and helps limit direct contact between the skin surface and external moisture or friction, while the zinc oxide component itself is not absorbed in meaningful amounts through intact skin.

Clean and thoroughly dry the affected area of skin before application. Using a clean fingertip, spread a thin, even layer of cream over the affected area only. For nappy area use, apply at each nappy change after cleaning the area. Avoid contact with the eyes and other mucous membranes. Wash hands after application unless the hands are the area being treated.

Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area of skin, generally at each nappy change or 2 to 3 times a day for other areas, or as directed on the packaging.

Refer to the expiry date printed on the tube and carton. A shelf-life duration beyond the manufacturer’s stated expiry is not independently verified for this product, so check the packaging before use.

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed after each use. Keep out of reach of children.

• Common: Mild, transient stinging sensation on application, particularly on already irritated skin.
• Common: A temporary whitish residue on the skin surface.
• Serious: Allergic contact dermatitis, including redness, swelling, itching, or blistering spreading beyond the application site, which requires stopping use and seeking medical advice.

• Known hypersensitivity or allergy to zinc oxide, calamine, or any other ingredient in the cream base.

• No clinically significant drug or food interactions are known for topical use of this zinc oxide and calamine cream when applied as directed to intact skin.

• Clean and dry the skin thoroughly before each application so the cream can adhere properly.
• Use a fresh, clean fingertip or applicator for each application to avoid contaminating the tube.
• Apply only a thin layer; a thick layer does not need to be reapplied less often and can feel greasy.
• Keep the tube tightly capped between uses.
• For nappy area use, allow the skin to air-dry for a few minutes before dressing the child, where practical.
• Stop use and check with a pharmacist if the skin condition worsens or does not change after several days of regular use.

Precautions: This cream is for external use on intact skin only, and should be kept away from the eyes and other mucous membranes. It should not be applied to broken, weeping, or infected skin. For use on infants or during pregnancy or breastfeeding, check the product packaging and consult a pharmacist if there is any uncertainty.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Speak with a doctor or pharmacist if the skin condition does not improve after several days of regular use, if a rash, swelling, or blistering develops, or if there are signs of skin infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, pain, discharge, or fever in an infant.