What are the cooling and anti-itch ointments?
Nov 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
Commonly used cooling and anti-itch ointments generally include calamine lotion, menthol ointment, camphor cream, compound acetic acid dexamethasone cream, and butenafine hydrochloride cream. Calamine lotion contains calamine and zinc oxide, which form a protective film on the skin surface after application, providing a cooling sensation and rapidly relieving skin itching. It is suitable for mild itching caused by mosquito bites, eczema, and prickly heat.
Generally, common cooling and anti-itch ointments include calamine lotion, menthol ointment, camphor cream, compound acetic acid dexamethasone cream (cooling formula), and benzhydrocortisone cream. Details are as follows:
1. Calamine Lotion: This product contains calamine and zinc oxide. After application, it forms a protective film on the skin surface, providing a cooling sensation and rapidly relieving mild itching caused by insect bites, eczema, or prickly heat. It is gentle in formulation and causes minimal skin irritation for most people.
2. Menthol Ointment: Containing menthol, this ointment produces a cooling effect through evaporation after application, inhibiting the transmission of itch signals at nerve endings and thereby relieving skin itching. It also helps soothe minor redness and swelling, making it suitable for itching caused by dry skin, insect bites, or mild allergic reactions.
3. Camphor Cream: Containing camphor, this cream provides a cooling and anti-itch effect while soothing the skin. It helps reduce itching and discomfort associated with various skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and insect bites. However, it should not be applied to broken or damaged skin.
4. Compound Acetic Acid Dexamethasone Cream (Cooling Formula): In addition to anti-inflammatory and antiallergic ingredients, some variants contain cooling agents. This dual action helps relieve itching caused by skin inflammation while providing a refreshing, comfortable sensation. It is suitable for itching due to allergic dermatitis or contact dermatitis.
5. Benzhydrocortisone Cream: This cream has anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties. Some formulations include added cooling ingredients that help alleviate skin itching and inflammatory responses after application. It is suitable for itching caused by skin conditions such as eczema or neurodermatitis, has low skin irritation, and can be used long-term by individuals with chronic mild itching.
Before applying any cooling anti-itch ointment, clean the affected area and ensure the skin is dry. Avoid application on broken, ulcerated, or damaged skin, as well as near mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, and mouth. If symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, or stinging occur after use, discontinue immediately and wash off the product.
