Zinc Oxide For Babies: Safety, Uses, And Precautions To Take

Determining the safety of zinc oxide for your little one is vital to avoid side effects.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Neema Shrestha, MD Dr. Neema Shrestha Dr. Neema ShresthaMD MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on LinkedinFollow MomJunction on Instagram Specialty: Neonatology and PediatricsExperience: 5 years
Written by , BDS, PGCAD Dr. Meenakshi Maruwada BDS, PGCAD Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Dental and General HealthExperience: 12 years
Edited by , BSc, MBA Rohit Garoo BSc, MBA Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Baby Health and WellnessExperience: 9 years
Fact-checked by , MSc (Biotechnology) Vidya Tadapatri MSc (Biotechnology) Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 5 years
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Zinc Oxide Cream For Baby Rashes

Image: ShutterStock

Due to its skin-protective properties, using zinc oxide for babies is mostly considered safe. As a result, it is often an active component in sunscreens, baby powders, baby lotions, and other skincare products. For example, calamine lotion, a topical treatment for skin irritation, is one of the most popular zinc oxide-containing skincare products for babies.

Since zinc oxide is widely used, you’re likely to encounter it in at least one babycare product. Therefore, knowing whether this compound is truly safe can help you make the best skincare choices for your baby.

This post discusses the safety, side effects, potential advantages, and precautions to consider when using products containing zinc oxide for babies.

In This Article

Key Pointers

  • Topical application of zinc oxide is safe for babies and can be found in many baby skincare products.
  • The compound has antibacterial and antioxidant properties and can treat conditions such as eczema, rashes, and other skin-related discomforts in babies.
  • Certain side effects such as vomiting or fever may arise if the baby accidentally inhales the product.
  • Be careful not to overapply and consult your child’s doctor before using it on your baby to avoid any adverse reactions.

Is Zinc Oxide Safe For Babies?

The topical application of zinc oxide is considered safe for babies’ skin (1)

. Research indicates that the compound’s nanoparticlesiParticles less than 100 nanometers in size widely used in medicine (drug delivery) and healthcare applications linger in the skin’s epidermis and do not penetrate the deeper dermis layer. There is also no cellular toxicity noted due to repeated topical use of zinc oxide.

The compound is approved for use in skincare products by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The concentration of zinc oxide is limited to 25%, which is the safe limit (2). Considering the extensive research and FDA approval, zinc oxide can be noted as safe for babies when used topically.

Uses Of Zinc Oxide For Babies

Zinc oxide is found in several baby skincare products. The compound could be used in the treatment or management of the following conditions in babies.

  1. Diaper rash: According to the Lincoln Medical Center, diaper rash is prevalent among 50% of infants. Diaper rash can be uncomfortable for babies. Lindsay Boever, a mother, shares the symptoms that she observed in her little one. She says, “Poor Baby! She constantly has a diaper rash. She has the kind right now that I have to change her diaper every 20 minutes. It is crazy red and burns her so badly. I have tried Aquafor, Desitin, Coconut Oil, Lotrimin, and Corn Starch. I don’t use wipes. I give her a bath, wash her bottom every time with anti-bacterial soap then let her air dry for as long as I am able. But, nothing is helping and I want to cry every time I change her because she sucks her stomach in, sucks in air, and cries so hard (i).” Zinc oxide-based ointments and lotions, such as calamine lotion for babies, are often used as a safe home remedy for a baby’s diaper rash (3). Zinc oxide is an antipruritic agent, meaning it provides relief from itching. It can be safely used even for babies younger than six months.

    Zinc oxide is an ingredient of diaper rash cream for babies

    Image: Shutterstock

  1. Dermatitis: Dermatitis or eczema is an autoimmune conditioniA group of medical conditions where the body’s immune system erroneously attacks healthy cells causing excessive skin inflammation, redness, and irritation. Zinc oxide-rich lotions, such as calamine lotions, can help relieve itching and irritation due to the compound’s anti-inflammatory properties (4). It could be a safe alternative to corticosteroidsiSteroid hormones produced in the adrenal cortex that help alleviate inflammation and the immune system activity , which require a doctor’s prescription for administration.
  1. Skin irritation: Zinc oxide-based ointments could be used as a home remedy to relieve skin irritation due to insect bites, contact with irritant plants, and friction.
  1. Sunburn: Experts recommend checking for the presence of zinc oxide while selecting a baby sunscreen lotion since the compound protects the skin from sunburns (5). The compound may provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays depending on the overall formulation of the sunscreen lotion. However, make sure to consult your child’s doctor before applying sunscreen on your baby under six months of age.
protip_icon Point to consider
Babies younger than six months have more absorbent skin and immature metabolic and excretory pathways. Therefore, it is vital to consult a doctor before using any sunscreen products, including zinc oxide, for babies (16).
Zinc oxide in sunscreen lotions can help prevent sunburns

Image: Shutterstock

  1. Certain skin conditions: Zinc oxide-based medicated ointments may be prescribed to treat certain skin conditions. A few examples are warts, skin ulcers, and some types of skin wounds. The likely reason could be the antibacterial and antioxidantiSubstances that may prevent or slow down cell damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals properties of the compound (6).

Besides these uses, zinc oxide may also be found in regular baby soaps, skin moisturizers, and talcum powders. It may also be found in certain types of suppositories and may be used locally in treatment of hemorrhoidsiA condition in which the rectal and anal region veins get swollen (7).

Side Effects Of Zinc Oxide In Babies

An allergy to zinc oxide may lead to eczema in babies

Image: Shutterstock

An allergic reaction to topical zinc oxide is extremely rare, considering it has anti-inflammatory properties useful for relieving allergy-related skin conditions, such as eczema (8). Most side effects of zinc oxide arise due to accidental ingestion or inhalation of its fumes (9). Inhalation of zinc oxide fumes usually occurs in an industrial setting, and it is highly unlikely that an infant will be exposed to it. Therefore, the only potential risk for the baby is accidental ingestion of zinc oxide-based lotion or ointment.

The ingestion of zinc oxide is a case of accidental poisoning and could lead to the following side effects (10) (11).

  • Chills and fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Cough
  • Mouth and throat irritation
  • Yellow skin and eyes

    Zinc oxide ingestion may cause discoloration of the skin

    Image: Shutterstock

Take your baby to the emergency room immediately if you notice any of the symptoms, and on accidental inhalation, do not induce vomiting on your own. Remember to carry the bottle or container of the zinc oxide product so that the healthcare provider can provide a relevant antidote based on the product’s formulation.

Precautions While Using Zinc Oxide

Always perform a patch test on the foot

Image: Shutterstock

The following precautions could help in the safe use of zinc oxide for babies.

  • Although zinc oxide is safe, the product may have other compounds that could be potential allergens, particularly for those with sensitive skin. Remember to check all the ingredients. Do a patch test on a small part of the skin, such as on the baby’s feet, to check suitability. Consider selecting fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
  • Apply a thin layer on the affected area and repeat after a few hours instead of applying a thick layer for better results.
  • If you are using a zinc-oxide-containing diaper rash cream, change the diaper often since it may absorb some of the cream.
  • Keep zinc oxide-containing products away from the baby’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Avoid products containing zinc oxide if your child is allergic to zinc, lanoliniA waxy, oily material derived from sheep's wool often used as a skin moisturizer , cod-liver oiliA nutrient-rich oil obtained from fish, known to be a good source of vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids , petroleum jelly or mineral oils.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is zinc oxide safe for a baby’s face?

Zinc oxide is an active ingredient in calamine lotion. And according to a study, calamine lotion was applied to the baby’s face and other body parts to relieve itchiness, and it didn’t have any side effects. Therefore, you may apply zinc oxide creams and lotions on newborns, even on the face (12). However, check with your pediatrician on the quantity.

2. Is zinc good for newborns?

Yes, zinc is safe for newborns, and the daily allowance of elemental zinc for babies below six months is 3mg/d (4).

3. What heals diaper rash fastest?

Diaper rash is a common occurrence in many infants and babies. Some effective ways to heal diaper rash quickly include keeping the baby’s skin dry and clean, frequent diaper changes, and applying ointments and creams (13). However, the timeframe for the healing of baby diaper rash depends on various factors, including the cause and severity.

4. Is zinc oxide good for a baby rash?

Yes, zinc oxide is an active ingredient in creams used to treat baby rashes, including diaper rash, and sunscreens that help prevent sun rash (14).

5. Is zinc oxide the same as Desitin?

Zinc oxide cream is used to treat various skin issues in babies, including cuts, wounds, and rashes. Desitin, Desitin Maximum Strength, and Desitin Rapid Relief are common brand names for zinc oxide creams (15). It is safe to consult your pediatrician before using these creams for your baby.

Zinc oxide for babies is considered safe for topical application. Hence, it is found in many baby skin care products. Products containing zinc oxide are effective in soothing nappy rash, dermatitis, sunburn, and several other conditions. However, keep the container away from the baby’s reach to avoid accidental inhalation or ingestion. Accidental exposure may cause diarrhea, vomiting, and yellowing of skin and eyes. Further, it is best to perform an allergy test before using zinc-oxide products in combination with other ingredients.

Infographic: DIY Diaper Rash Cream With Zinc Oxide

Commercial diaper rash creams may have a mixture of several ingredients and chemicals. Choosing the best from the extensive range of products may be difficult. So why not make a safe and effective diaper rash cream at home for your little one? The infographic below shows you how to do it.

homemade diaper rash cream recipe with zinc oxide (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Illustration: Is Zinc Oxide Safe For Babies?

zinc oxide for babies_illustration

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

i. Diaper rash help!;
https://mychildiloveyou.blogspot.com/2012/11/diaper-rash-help.html

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

1. Zinc oxide shows no link to skin damage; Harvard Medical School
2. Zinc Oxide; Chemical Safety Facts
3. Bowel Movements and Diaper Rash; UC San Diego Health
4. Mrinal Gupta et al., Zinc Therapy in Dermatology: A Review; U.S. National Library of Medicine
5. 9 Sunscreen Tips for Your Kids; Children’s Hospital Colorado
6. Agnieszka Kołodziejczak-Radzimska and Teofil Jesionowski, Zinc Oxide—From Synthesis to Application: A Review; U.S. National Library of Medicine
7. Zinc Oxide; Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
8. Elisabeth Anderson, Summer Staple – Zinc Oxide; Michigan State University
9. Zinc oxide overdose; U.S. National Library of Medicine
10. Calamine Lotion; Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
11. Abendrot and U. Kalinowska-Lis, Zinc-containing compounds for personal care applications; International Journal of Cosmetic Science
12. Kwa Siew Kim et al.; Neonatal rash A case study; Australian Family Physician (2012)
13. Zinc-containing compounds for personal care applications; International Journal of Cosmetic Science
14. Newborn Skin 101; Johns Hopkins Medicine
15. Abendrot and U. Kalinowska-Lis, Zinc Oxide cream, ointment, paste; Cleveland Clinic

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Dr. Neema Shrestha
Dr. Neema ShresthaMD
Dr. Neema Shrestha is a pediatrician with a special interest in the field of neonatology. She has an overall experience of five years working in the field. Currently working in Kathmandu, Nepal, she completed her MBBS from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal in 2008, Diploma in Child Health from D.

Read full bio of Dr. Neema Shrestha
Dr. Meenakshi Maruwada
Dr. Meenakshi MaruwadaBDS, PGCAD
Dr. Meenakshi is a dentist and a passionate writer with over eight years of experience in dentistry and four years in writing. She started her career as a dentist with a dental chain in Mumbai and soon rose to lead the clinic as a Head Dentist.

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Rohit Garoo
Rohit GarooBSc, MBA
Rohit Garoo is a writer-turned-editor with over 9 years of experience in content writing, editing, and content marketing. He did his bachelors in Science at St. Xavier's College, Hyderabad, and masters in Business Administration at Osmania University.

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Vidya Tadapatri
Vidya TadapatriMSc (Biotechnology)
Vidya did her post-graduation in Biotechnology from Osmania University, Hyderabad. Her interest in scientific research and writing made her pursue a career in writing, in which she now has over five years of experience. She has done certified biotechnology-related training programs under renowned organizations such as Centre For Cellular & Molecular Biology and Department of Biotechnology.

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