calamine

Definition

A pink-colored, zinc oxide-based topical preparation used to soothe itching and skin irritation from conditions like poison ivy, insect bites, and chicken pox. It works by providing a cooling sensation and forming a protective barrier on the skin.

Example Usage

I applied calamine lotion to the mosquito bites to stop the itching.

Origin

Derived from the mineral calamine (zinc carbonate), which has been used in skincare formulations since the 18th century.

Fun Fact

Traditional calamine lotion has a distinctive pink color because of iron oxide added during manufacturing, though the iron is not essential to the product's effectiveness.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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