Review on Formulation and Evaluation of Calamine Lotion

Abstract

Herbal cosmetic formulations are crafted using plantderived ingredients blended with appropriate cosmetic bases to treat and manage a variety of skin-related concerns. As the name suggests, these products originate from natural sources and typically do not contain synthetic additives that could potentially cause skin irritation or adverse reactions. Compared to conventional cosmetic products, herbal alternatives are generally considered gentler and safer for continuous application. The growing field of cosmeceuticalsproducts that merge cosmetic appeal with therapeutic action focuses on enhancing skin health while addressing specific concerns such as acne, premature aging, and protection against UV radiation. Calamine lotion is a well-known topical preparation valued for its antiseptic, soothing, and cooling effects, commonly used to alleviate mild skin irritations and discomforts. This study investigates the substitution of synthetic agents in calamine lotion with natural ingredients, specifically focusing on aloe vera gel and honey, which are known for their hydrating properties and function effectively as natural humectants. The aim is to promote skincare through botanical means while preserving the functional benefits of the formulation. In particular, this research seeks to compare the moisturizing capacity of glycerin a widely used semi-synthetic humectant with that of its herbal counterparts, evaluating the potential of formulating calamine lotion entirely with natural moisturizing agents.

Introduction

1. Calamine Lotion Overview

Calamine lotion is a shake poultice—a topical suspension of fine particles like calamine and zinc oxide—used for its anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) effects. It also includes excipients like bentonite, glycerin, sodium citrate, and liquefied phenol. Due to its unstable nature, the suspension must be shaken before use.

• Regulatory Status: Recognized as an OTC skin protectant by the USFDA and an essential medicine by the WHO.

• Packaging: Often provided in wide-mouthed containers for brush application.

• Pharmacopeia Variance: Calamine is defined differently in the BP (basic zinc carbonate + ferric oxide) and the USP (zinc oxide + ferric oxide).

2. Types of Lotions

Lotions are categorized by their intended skin benefits:

1. Skin-Nourishing – Hydrate and maintain healthy skin.

2. Restorative/Repair – Soothe and repair dry or damaged skin.

3. Cellulite-Reducing – Firm skin and improve texture.

4. Anti-Ageing/Wrinkle-Reduction – Contain retinol, peptides, antioxidants.

5. Brightening/Anti-Tan – Reduce melanin production for brighter skin.

6. Stretch Mark – Prevent or reduce stretch marks with cocoa butter, centella extract, etc.

3. Benefits of Calamine Lotion

• Controls acne by reducing inflammation and oil.

• Dries out fluid in blisters, rashes, and eczema.

• Provides a cooling, antiseptic effect for skin conditions.

• Can interfere with mammograms by creating minor opacities.

• Eases itching and allergic reactions, often used with corticosteroids or antihistamines.

4. Key Excipients in Lotion Formulations

• Oily Components: Help with drug absorption, formulation thickness, and skin penetration (e.g., hydrocarbons, polyols).

• Emulsifiers & Thickeners: Stabilize water-oil mixtures and improve consistency (e.g., methylcellulose, paraffin).

• Preservatives & Antioxidants: Prevent microbial contamination and oxidation; ensure shelf-life stability.

• Buffering Agents: Maintain pH to protect drug stability and prevent degradation.

5. General Uses of Lotions

Lotions maintain skin hydration, smoothness, and softness. They are lighter and less greasy than creams due to higher water content, making them ideal for everyday skin care. Common benefits include:

• Moisture retention

• Relief from dryness

• Treatment for rough or flaky skin

Conclusion

The evaluation of calamine lotion formulated with calamine, zinc oxide, bentonite, and glycerin confirms that it meets pharmaceutical standards for topical use. It exhibits desirable characteristics such as proper pH, spreadability, viscosity, and absence of irritation or microbial contamination. These properties support its application for skin irritation, rashes, and other dermatological conditions [21][33][38].

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Rutuja Dhaigude, Nitin Gawai, Nidhi Jawalkar, Ankita Thikekar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.