Is zinc oxide harmful to the skin?

Zinc oxide is very harmful to the skin. First of all, it is not edible and will cause gastrointestinal diseases. However, it can be applied externally to treat acute dermatitis and eczema. However, applying zinc oxide may cause skin dehydration and allergies. Patients need to pay attention to the usage rules of zinc oxide and the suitable population, and then correctly use the medicinal value of zinc oxide.

1. Food taboos

The main ingredient of zinc oxide ointment is zinc oxide, which is mainly used for acute or subacute dermatitis, eczema, prickly heat and mild, small-area skin ulcers. Zinc oxide ointment is called a panacea. But is it suitable for use in all cases? Since ointments and creams have a certain sealing effect, zinc oxide ointment should be avoided as much as possible for skin lesions such as acute eczema accompanied by a large amount of exudation, large-area ulcers, erosions, blisters, bullae, etc. accompanied by wound exudation.

2. Dehydration

Although zinc oxide ointment is a skin protectant and can theoretically be used as a barrier and moisturizer on normal skin, the hygroscopic and astringent effects of zinc oxide particles can actually cause a slight dehydration effect on the skin. Therefore, it is not recommended for patients with atopic dermatitis, chronic eczema, senile pruritus, psoriasis vulgaris, and other conditions based on dry skin to use zinc oxide ointment as a skin care product for a long term and over a large area (in cases with acute attacks or mild exudation, it can be used for a short period of time until the skin lesions are healed or stabilized). Such patients should usually choose moisturizing products that are similar to the physiological lipid composition of the skin.

3. Allergies

If you are allergic to zinc oxide ointment and experience burning, itching, redness, swelling, etc. at the applied area, please note that you should pay attention to local cleanliness and hygiene and apply zinc oxide ointment for observation. Cosmetics: inferior, spoiled cosmetics, highly irritating cosmetics and certain medicinal cosmetics. Chemical products: mosquito coils, plastics, rubber, dyes, paints, fragrances, alcohol, etc. Some people are even allergic to chemical fiber clothes. Some hair dyes, perm lotions, shampoos and hair care products can easily cause skin allergies in these people, and even cause corneal inflammation. Drugs: such as sulfonamides, contraceptives, etc. Food: such as fish, shrimp, milk, etc. Other factors: Pollen, dust, animal hair, metal, and clothing are often allergens for sensitive skin. Some people are allergic to cold, hot air, and ultraviolet rays. The symptoms of allergic skin are very complicated.