What are the ingredients of prickly heat lotion?

During hot summer weather, some children develop prickly heat (miliaria) due to humid, poorly ventilated conditions. This condition causes itching on the child’s skin, significantly affecting their daily life. Calamine lotion is a commonly used topical agent for treating prickly heat—what are its ingredients?

Ingredients of Calamine Lotion

The primary active ingredient in calamine lotion is calamine (a mixture of zinc oxide and ferric oxide), typically formulated with zinc oxide, glycerin, and distilled water. Calamine lotion provides antipruritic (itch-relieving), anti-inflammatory, astringent, and protective effects. It is classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) Class B medication widely used for infants and children during summer. Other common formulations of prickly heat lotion (distinct from calamine lotion) may contain talc, angelica dahurica root (bai zhi), lead carbonate (guan fen), borneol, burnt alum (ku fan), menthol, and fragrance. Its main functions include dispelling wind, eliminating dampness, cooling the skin, and relieving itching. It is indicated for infantile miliaria (sweat rash), scabies, eczema, and pruritus. Application instructions: After cleansing the skin, gently wipe the affected area and then lightly pat the lotion onto the skin. When using this product, avoid contact with mucous membranes such as the eyes and mouth; do not apply to broken or ulcerated skin. Prolonged use is not recommended. If symptoms persist for more than three days without improvement, consult a physician.

Once a baby develops prickly heat, avoid using prickly heat powder, as it may clog pores and hinder recovery—or even lead to severe pustular infection. In contrast, commercially available “prickly heat lotions” have a finer, more liquid consistency than powders, minimizing pore blockage. Therefore, prickly heat lotion is generally preferable to prickly heat powder. After prickly heat appears, bathe the baby frequently and change clothes regularly. To minimize skin irritation, use lukewarm water for bathing—avoid soap or shower gels. Clothing should be thin, soft, and loose-fitting to reduce friction against the skin. On hot, humid days, maintain indoor air conditioning at approximately 26°C (78.8°F) and keep relative humidity below 60%. Ensure the sleeping area is well-ventilated. A cool, well-ventilated room helps resolve prickly heat rapidly.

Ensure adequate indoor ventilation and moisture control to prevent prickly heat caused by humidity and poor airflow. Prickly heat is intensely itchy and can severely disrupt daily activities. We hope this information proves helpful!