Zinc ointment
introduction
Zinc ointment can often be found in home and travel pharmacies. Zinc ointment has different properties that give it possibilities and limits in use against various diseases and ailments.
General indications
Zinc ointments offer the possibility of external application of zinc. They contain zinc oxide, which promotes wound healing and, to a certain extent, has an anti-inflammatory and weakly disinfecting effect. Zinc ointments are used in a variety of ways. In principle, zinc ointment can have a symptomatic supportive effect almost everywhere where moisture, the risk of inflammation and wound edges have to be treated.
Zinc ointment is not indicated to combat the causes of certain diseases, but as a supportive measure to alleviate certain symptoms.
General indications for zinc ointment are therefore smaller wounds, injuries and skin complaints.
For example, zinc ointment can be indicated for various skin complaints that are associated with (too) damp skin, as well as in certain phases for neurodermatitis, herpes, shingles, genital warts and minor burns.
It is also used to combat pimples, blackheads and acne.
It is also known for its healing properties in so-called diaper rash.
The general indications of zinc ointment also include external use in the anal and intimate areas for both sexes.
Read more about this under: Home remedies for acne - That works best !, Homeopathy for acne, Homeopathy for burns
Zinc ointment for pimples and acne
Zinc ointments, as well as the consumption of zinc, are often recommended for complaints such as pimples and acne. The zinc oxide contained in the zinc ointments has a supportive effect on skin affected by pimples and acne due to its properties.
Thorough skin cleansing is required for the zinc ointment to work. This plays a major role in pimples and acne. In some cases, the drying effect of the ointment helps improve the complexion.
If the skin is already dry, however, it can increase the dryness and worsen skin problems. It is recommended to apply the zinc ointment sparingly and only selectively to the individual pimples. Dry skin areas should be left out. At best, the ointment is applied in the evening so that it can work overnight.
If the pimples are not superficial, exposed, the pimples should not be squeezed out. It is better to treat them with heat. A facial steam bath, for example, can have a supportive effect.
The zinc ointment can then be applied. In addition, the active ingredients of zinc ointments can have a supportive effect on so-called pimple marks and light acne scars. However, what matters are the ingredients in the zinc ointments and how individually you react to them.
From experience reports it is possible that so-called paraffins can result in an intolerance in the short or long term.
The paraffins include, for example, Cera Microcristallina / Microcristallina Wax, Ceresin, Mineral Oil, Ozokerite, Paraffinium Liquidum and Petrolatum. Some zinc ointments contain herbal ingredients such as tea tree oil, manuka oil and healing earth, which in some cases can help improve the complexion. But intolerance to these ingredients can also exist or develop.
Read more on this topic at: Oily Skin - The Best Care Tips, Oily Skin - What To Do,
Zinc ointment against blackheads
The zinc ointment can also be used against blackheads. In particular, the disinfecting effect of zinc oxide contributes to healing. It demarcates the skin around the blackhead so it can heal. The principles of use are the same as those for treating pimples and acne.
Zinc ointment for herpes
The herpes viruses of HSV type 1 show up as itchy, burning, highly contagious blisters on the lips, the nose and the oral mucosa.
In some cases, zinc ointment can shorten the healing process for the blisters.
When applying the zinc ointment, it is important that it is carefully applied thinly to the blisters with a clean, smooth cotton swab. The zinc oxide in the ointment can help remove the fluid from the weeping blisters. In addition, it has an anti-inflammatory and wound healing effect, which can also have a positive effect on the cold sore.
However, zinc ointment is not the method of choice to fight herpes viruses. This means that the symptoms can be alleviated with zinc ointment, but it does not work against the cause of the disease.
It is important to comply with hygiene regulations in order to prevent further infection and spread of the herpes viruses.
So-called antivirals, such as acyclovir, can be used as medication.
If you have a pronounced herpes virus, other symptoms or if you are unsure, you should always consult a doctor.
Read more on this topic at: Herpes in the mouth, home remedies for herpes, herpes simplex, medication for shingles
Zinc ointment for genital warts
Genital warts are also known as genital warts or in technical jargon as condylomata acuminate. These are benign skin changes.
The genital warts are caused by the so-called papillomaviruses. They are usually transmitted through unprotected sex.
Here too, a zinc ointment cannot combat the cause, but only in some cases alleviate the symptoms. Zinc ointments dry out the genital warts and thus increase the chance that they will fall off (faster).
In combination with other medication, applying the zinc ointment 2 to 3 times a day can have a supportive effect on the affected area.
Consistent, conscientious adherence to the hygiene regulations is important in order to reduce the risk of the virus spreading. Consultation from a doctor is useful.
Zinc ointment for hemorrhoids
The use of zinc ointment can help with so-called hemorrhoids in the anal area. It is important that the person who suffers from hemorrhoids is aware of the type and limits of the use of the zinc ointment.
Using zinc ointment on hemorrhoids can relieve itching. But it's not the way to fight hemorrhoids.
For this, medical sclerotherapy of the hemorrhoids and other measures, depending on the severity, must be undertaken. The zinc ointment can, however, support wound healing after the measures have been taken. The zinc ointment should only be applied thinly.
If there are open spots on the anus, the zinc ointment must not be used there. In addition, the ointment must not be introduced into the anal area. This can lead to damage to the intestinal lining. The zinc ointment is only suitable for external treatment. If you are unsure, you should consult your doctor.
Read more about this under: How To Treat Hemorrhoids Successfully
Zinc ointment against neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis treatment is usually divided into 4 stages. The use of zinc ointment in combination with other measures can have a supportive effect in some treatment stages. It is contraindicated in other stages of treatment as it could worsen the symptoms.
In stage 1 of neurodermatitis treatment, the skin is usually dry. At this stage it is important to take prophylactic measures to prevent an outbreak of neurodermatitis. This means that all actions and means that dry out the skin should be prevented.
Accordingly, the zinc ointment is contraindicated in the prophylactic treatment stage due to its drying effect.
In the 2nd stage of the treatment of neurodermatitis, skin inflammations that occur are to be relieved by using weakly dosed drugs. In most cases, low-concentration cortisone preparations are used. In the event of an acute attack, zinc ointment may help alleviate the symptoms.
In stage 3 of neurodermatitis treatment, the symptoms are more pronounced and accordingly the medication is administered in higher doses.
Here, a zinc ointment can have a supportive effect on weeping eczema.
In level 4, oral systemically acting agents are often advisable in addition to the local medication.
Here too, in the case of acute flare-ups with weeping eczema, a properly applied zinc ointment in combination with other measures can be useful.
Neurodermatitis treatment should always consider and encompass various aspects and be individually tailored. Accordingly, the additional use of zinc ointment in this context is not generally recommended or generally contraindicated.
Read more on this topic at: Atopic dermatitis on the face, skin care for atopic dermatitis
Zinc ointment for scars
With smaller, fresher scars, for example in the context of acne, the use of zinc ointment may have a supportive effect. In some cases it can also have a limited prophylactic effect on scars. As a rule, however, scar tissue is characterized by the fact that it contains less water than healthy skin. Therefore, zinc ointment is mostly contraindicated in these cases.
It is advisable to seek advice from the treating doctor regarding scar treatment. It is also possible to get an occupational or physiotherapeutic scar treatment via a prescription. The therapist can then individually address the respective scar condition and carry out scar treatment measures. Furthermore, these specialists can also provide guidance on effective, independent scar treatment.
Read more about this under: Scar care
Zinc ointment for shingles
The colloquial shingles is a viral disease.
You cannot treat the cause with zinc ointment. Zinc ointment can, however, relieve the itching of shingles.
In addition, the wound edges can be treated with the ointment.
Read more about this topic at: How contagious is shingles? How long does shingles last?
Zinc ointment against athlete's foot
In some cases, certain zinc ointments can help against athlete's foot. But the ointment cannot fight the cause. A doctor should be consulted if the athlete's foot recurs and does not heal. A suitable, effective treatment should at best be discussed with them.
Read more on this topic at: Ointments against athlete's foot
Zinc ointment for burns
Lighter burns can be treated with home remedies. In the case of severe burns and uncertainties, a doctor should always be consulted.
For any type of burn, zinc ointment is usually less indicated and in some cases highly contraindicated. The focus is on effective cooling. This can be done with the help of cooling pads, quark compresses or cooling ointments, for example with aloe vera.
Read more on this topic at: Homeopathy for burns
Zinc ointment for sore buttocks
If the sore bottom is caused by moisture, the topical application of zinc ointment can have a soothing and protective effect. As with the diaper rash mentioned above, the zinc ointment attracts water and creates a kind of barrier against feces and urine.
If your buttocks are wet and sore, it is important to ensure that there is good air circulation so that the buttocks can dry and heal.
As with the treatment of hemorrhoids, the ointment may only be used externally, otherwise it will damage the intestinal mucosa.
Use of zinc ointment on open wounds
Zinc ointment should only be used on weeping wounds, and it is particularly important to have thoroughly cleaned the wound beforehand. When dressing the wound, a sterile wound compress should be used at best.
Zinc ointment must not be applied to deep and bleeding wounds, as well as larger or more complex wounds. Using the ointment could worsen the symptoms and possibly lead to complications. If you are unsure, a doctor should always take a look at the wound.
Read more on this topic at: Wound healing
Zinc ointment after a tattoo
Zinc ointments, as well as Bebe®, Penatencreme®, skin lotion or other disinfecting ointments are contraindicated on a normally healing tattoo.If oozing skin problems develop, a zinc ointment can have a supportive effect. This is best discussed with a doctor.
Read more on this topic at: The right aftercare for a tattoo
Application of zinc ointment in the genital area
The use of zinc ointment in the genital area can only alleviate discomfort regardless of gender and not combat the cause of the discomfort. For both sexes, the zinc ointment is only suitable for external treatment.
It can relieve itching and burning pain in the vaginal area and around the testicles and penis. In both sexes, it can help unclean, irritated or slightly damaged skin, for example from shaving, to regenerate.
In women, the zinc ointment is only suitable for superficial treatment of the groin region and the outer labia. Accordingly, the zinc ointment in men is only suitable for treating the groin region and the male external genital organs. In addition, irritation can occur after sexual intercourse, which in some cases heals more quickly with an external treatment with a zinc ointment.
If there is any suspicion of inflammation caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi, a doctor must be consulted. If in doubt, it is advisable to always seek advice from a medical professional.
Feelings of shame in this case are human, but not necessary. For medical professionals, the focus is on the well-being and health of the patient, regardless of the disease or limitation.
Read more on this topic at: Rash in the genital area
Application of zinc ointment
Zinc ointment can be applied externally in many ways.
When used properly and in compliance with the instruction leaflet, it can support the healing process for various skin complaints.
Interactions and side effects should be taken seriously when using it. It is important to use zinc ointment only for certain indications. The general indications should be followed when using it.
Since the ointment dries out the skin, it should only be applied sparingly and selectively. Large-area application should be avoided at all costs. Always clean the skin prior to any application.
The ointment should only be applied with a clean cotton swab or clean hands. The application should never be done with pressure, but always gently and gently. Hands should always be cleaned thoroughly after use.
The ointment should be kept at room temperature and out of the reach of children. A doctor should always be consulted if symptoms or doubts arise or persist.
Side effects of zinc ointment
Drying of the skin, reddening and thickening of the skin have been observed as common side effects when using zinc ointments.
Side effects without information refer to the internal use of zinc supplements. Here an overdose could lead to headaches, a metallic taste on the tongue, fatigue and nausea and vomiting. It has also been reported that applying zinc ointments to severely inflamed areas of skin can cause burning pain.
Interactions of zinc ointment
When applying zinc ointment, other skin products should not be applied to the same skin area at the same time. This could reduce the effectiveness of the other remedies.
This is especially true for active ingredients that form compounds with the zinc salts. These include dithranol, salicylic acid and 8-quinolinol sulfate.
Use of zinc ointment in pregnancy
The use of zinc ointment during pregnancy should be discussed with the attending gynecologist.
If intolerance or allergies to zinc, zinc salts, zinc sulfate or zinc oxide are known, an alternative treatment option should be sought.
During breastfeeding, the ointment should not be applied to the breastfeeding breast to prevent the infant from swallowing some of the ointment.
Application of zinc ointment to the baby
Some babies have a tendency to develop something called diaper rash. This is a rash that develops from wearing diapers. More precisely, due to the baby's wet bottom, which cannot dry out sufficiently under the diaper.
As a result, the baby's skin can become sore and inflamed. In addition, the warm and humid environment increases the risk of infection. Zinc ointment can have a supportive effect due to its properties. It draws moisture from the skin. It also forms a protective film on the skin and thus a certain barrier for urine and faeces.
Read more on this topic at: Diaper rash
Active ingredient and effect of zinc ointment
The water-insoluble zinc oxide is contained in zinc ointments. According to the German Pharmacopoeia (DAB), a zinc ointment should consist of 10 parts of zinc oxide and 90 parts of so-called wool wax alcohol ointment.
The ointment is usually whitish in color. It has a soft consistency at room temperature. The zinc oxide has a weak disinfectant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, drying and wound healing effect.
The drying effect arises from the fact that zinc ointment can absorb water. This can have a positive effect, for example with weeping blisters.
However, if the skin is already dry, this can worsen the complexion.
There are various additives in some zinc ointments. Often there is also cod liver oil in the ointments. Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, which has a positive influence on the regeneration of the skin.
Zinc has a high percentage of fat, which prevents it from being sucked into the skin. This allows the zinc ointment to protect the affected skin area. The zinc oxide in the ointment forms soluble zinc salts on the skin. These have a slightly disinfecting and astringent effect.
This is useful when treating wound edges. As a rule, the zinc ions only penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin in relatively intact skin. The uptake into the bloodstream is usually low.
With more damaged skin or open wounds, zinc absorption into the bloodstream may be higher. Intoxication and overdosage of zinc ointment are not directly known. Zinc creams and zinc pastes are available as variants of zinc ointments.
Price of zinc ointment
The price of zinc ointments varies widely. The price range extends from a few euros to over 25 euros. It is crucial to pay attention to the additional ingredients in the ointments. Different zinc ointments may be indicated depending on the symptoms and tolerance. It is advisable to seek advice from a doctor.
