Calamine Lotion: Makeup Primer, Acne Treatment, SPF?

The Trend of Using Calamine Lotion as Makeup Primer

A recent trend gaining popularity on social media is using calamine lotion as a makeup primer before applying foundation or other facial cosmetics. Calamine lotion contains zinc oxide and is commonly used to treat minor skin irritations like poison ivy, insect bites, and acne. The pink color and texture make it appear similar to some makeup primers on the market. However, dermatologists have some concerns about using this over-the-counter medication as a cosmetic product.

What is Calamine Lotion?

Calamine lotion is a topical medication used to treat mild itchy skin associated with:

• Insect bites
• Poison ivy
• Chickenpox
• Heat rash
• Eczema
• Skin irritation
• Acne

It works as a skin protectant thanks to ingredients like zinc oxide and iron oxides. These ingredients form a barrier on the skin, preventing irritants from penetrating the skin surface. The zinc oxide and iron oxides give calamine lotion its light pink color.

While usually relatively safe for short term use, calamine lotion lacks the properties necessary for effectively priming skin for makeup application.

How Calamine Lotion Differs From Makeup Primers

Unlike traditional makeup primers, calamine lotion:

• Does not blur pores or refine skin texture
• Can dry out skin excessively
• Does not help makeup adhere better or last longer

Additionally, traditional makeup primers have moisturizing properties from ingredients like glycerin and silicones. These hydrating ingredients are generally lacking in calamine preparations.

Why Dermatologists Recommend Avoiding This Trend

Board certified dermatologists strongly advise against regularly using calamine lotion as a makeup primer for several reasons.

Skin Irritation Risks

With repeated use, calamine lotion can be very drying and irritating. It often contains alcohol which can be problematic for certain skin types. Additionally, zinc oxide sits on the skin surface and can cause buildup and clogging over time.

Skin Sensitivity Reactions

Iron oxides provide the classic pink tint in most calamine lotions. However, iron oxides and other pigments can actually cause skin sensitivity and allergic reactions in some people. Reactions can range from redness and flaking to itchy hives.

Acne-Promoting Ingredients

Two concerning ingredients commonly found in calamine lotion from a comedogenic perspective are:

• Isopropyl alcohol: Classified on a scale of 0-5, with 5 being very comedogenic. While alcohol can have a temporarily drying effect on pimples, it actually triggers increased oil production which clogs pores.
• Zinc oxide: Also rated 5 out of 5 for comedogenicity. It accumulates on the skin surface and the particulate matter can get trapped within pores.

SPF Protection Issues

Some people use calamine lotion for its zinc oxide content, hoping to gain some sun protection. However, calamine lotion is not designed as a sunscreen product. The zinc oxide concentration is not nearly high enough for adequate UVA/UVB protection.

Additionally, applying calamine lotion under foundation or powder cosmetics reduces efficacy even further. SPF testing requirements stipulate application directly to clean bare skin at 2mg per cm2. Makeup interferes with forming a continuous protective film on the skin.

Safer Makeup Priming Alternatives

Instead of reaching for the calamine bottle in your medicine cabinet, dermatologists recommend using products actually designed and tested for facial use. Some better options include:

Silicone-Based Primers

Silicone primers even out skin texture by seamlessly filling in pores, fine lines, and uneven areas that can disrupt foundation application. Many also contain hydrating botanical extracts to prevent drying out the skin when used under makeup.

Gel-Cream Primers

Gel-cream primer textures provide lightweight hydration while controlling shine. They allow makeup to glide over skin smoothly and last longer before breaking down excess oil cuts through. Gel-cream primers often include ingredients like hyaluronic acid and plant-derived squalane for a hydration boost.

Color-Correcting Primers

Green color-correcting primers counteract redness while purple and peach shades brighten dull complexions. These tinted formulas neutralize issues like dark circles, acne marks, rosacea, and sun spots to prep skin for even foundation coverage.

SPF Primers

Primers with broad spectrum SPF protection built in provide sun defense without interfering with your makeup routine. Even when applied under foundation, tested sunscreen primers maintain their protective potency.

Talk to a Dermatologist Before Trying Trendy Skincare

While social media offers a trove of interesting beauty hacks and trendy skincare suggestions, the safety and efficacy of many tips is questionable at best. Always consult your dermatologist before trying unproven skincare techniques that could do more harm than good.

Board certified dermatologists can offer personalized guidance on suitable cosmetic products for your unique skin type and needs. They keep fully up to date with the latest research on ingredient safety and effectiveness for issues like acne, aging, rosacea, pigmentation, and beyond.

Rather than struggling with irritation and breakouts from using calamine as a makeup primer, schedule a skin check and product recommendations from an expert. Protecting your skin health and self-confidence requires avoiding risky trend-chasing in favor of smart, evidence-based routines.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.