Calamine Lotion: FSA Eligibility

What is calamine lotion?

Calamine lotion is a popular over-the-counter (OTC) anti-pruritic (anti-itching agent) that is designed to treat conditions such as sunburn, rashes, poison ivy, poison oak, chickenpox, insect bites and stings, as well as other skin conditions that result in itching and painful discomfort. This lotion's main ingredient is calamine, which consists of a mixture of zinc oxide and other zinc carbonates, and has been in use since the 1930s in the U.S. as one of the most common products found in home medicine cabinets (MedicineNet.com).

How does calamine lotion treat skin conditions?

As a topical treatment, calamine lotion provides cooling sensation on the skin as it evaporates, which can help to provide relief to common skin conditions that cause excessive itching. The zinc oxide in the calamine acts as a base (alkali) on the skin, which can counter effect of skin conditions and works as a mild antiseptic to prevent further infections that may arise from continual scratching of the affected area (WebMD).

In some cases, calamine lotion can be used as an astringent to clean out wounds that arise from skin maladies. For instance, acne abscesses or blisters that arise from exposure or other factors can begin to leak pus, blood and other liquid, and calamine lotion can be used to clear out and dry these sores to promote the healing process.