Zinc Oxide Ointment
Zinc Oxide Ointment
Product Description
A trusted, no-frills skin protectant ointment with 20% zinc oxide that forms a protective barrier to treat and prevent diaper rash, soothe chafed skin, and dry the oozing and weeping of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. This simple, effective formula has been a medicine cabinet staple for generations.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Physical Barrier Protection
Creates a protective layer on skin surface that shields against moisture, friction, and irritants without absorbing into the bloodstream.
Poison Ivy/Oak Relief
Helps dry the oozing and weeping associated with poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac for faster healing and comfort.
Diaper Rash Treatment
Treats and prevents diaper rash by sealing out wetness and protecting delicate baby skin from prolonged moisture exposure.
Simple, Clean Formula
Only 4 ingredients total with no fragrances, dyes, or parabens, making it ideal for sensitive skin and those with allergies.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Zinc oxide is a mineral-based ingredient that sits on top of skin without systemic absorption. Considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists.
Contains petrolatum and mineral oil which are technically safe (no fatty acids), but the occlusive nature may trap heat and moisture. Use sparingly if prone to fungal acne.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and hypoallergenic formula minimizes risk of irritation. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Avoid contact with eyes. Do not use on deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. Consult a doctor if condition worsens or persists beyond 7 days.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
βͺ Zinc Oxide 20% Proven
A naturally occurring mineral compound that has been used for over 2,000 years for wound healing and skin protection. Works by forming a physical barrier on the skin surface.
- Mechanism: Creates physical barrier that reflects and scatters irritants while allowing skin to heal underneath
- Research: Clinical studies confirm anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce P. acnes bacteria
- Benefits: UV protection, wound healing support, antimicrobial activity, reduces inflammation
π§ Light Mineral Oil Base Emollient
A highly refined petroleum-derived ingredient that softens and smooths the skin. Helps the ointment spread easily and creates a moisture-sealing layer.
- Function: Occlusive emollient that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Safety: Pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil is highly purified and non-comedogenic
- Fungal Acne Note: Contains no fatty acids, so does not feed Malassezia yeast
π§ White Petrolatum Base Protectant
A semi-solid mixture of hydrocarbons that forms an inert, protective film on the skin. The gold standard for barrier protection in dermatology.
- Function: Creates occlusive barrier reducing water loss by up to 99%
- Safety: USP-grade white petrolatum is triply refined and considered safe by dermatologists
- Research: Proven wound healing benefits in numerous clinical studies
π―οΈ White Wax Thickener Stabilizer
Refined beeswax or bleached beeswax that adds structure and thickness to the ointment formula while providing additional skin-conditioning benefits.
- Function: Thickening agent and emollient that helps formula adhere to skin
- Source: Derived from natural beeswax, refined for purity
- Benefit: Contributes to long-lasting protective barrier
4 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 20%
Inactive Ingredients: Light Mineral Oil, White Petrolatum, White Wax
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply as the final step before dressing. For diaper rash, apply liberally with each diaper change, especially at bedtime.
π How to Use
Clean the Affected Area
Gently cleanse the skin with mild soap and water. For diaper area, use fragrance-free wipes or plain water.
Allow Skin to Dry Completely
Pat the area dry thoroughly. Applying to damp skin can trap moisture underneath the barrier.
Apply Liberally
Apply a generous layer of ointment to cover the entire affected area. The white color shows coverage.
Reapply as Needed
For diaper rash: apply with each diaper change. For poison ivy/chafing: apply as needed throughout the day.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You need a simple, effective diaper rash treatment
- You want protection from poison ivy/oak/sumac
- You have chafed or irritated skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal ingredient formulas
- You want an affordable pharmacy staple
- You need protection during incontinence care
- You have sensitive skin prone to reactions
β Consider alternatives if:
- You need a cosmetically elegant daily moisturizer
- You want a fast-absorbing, invisible formula
- You have active fungal acne and use occlusive products heavily
- You need treatment for deep wounds or serious burns
- You want anti-aging or treatment benefits beyond protection
- You prefer natural/organic certified products
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Thick, occlusive formula may feel heavy. Best used only on targeted areas rather than full-face application.
Excellent moisture barrier that locks in hydration and protects compromised skin barrier.
Works well for targeted application on dry patches or irritated areas. Avoid T-zone if oily.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, hypoallergenic formula is ideal for reactive and easily irritated skin.
While zinc oxide has anti-inflammatory benefits, the occlusive base may not be ideal for acne-prone areas.
π Results Timeline
Instant Barrier Protection
Forms protective layer immediately upon application, shielding skin from moisture, friction, and irritants.
100% experience barrier protectionReduced Redness & Irritation
Mild diaper rash and skin irritation typically show visible improvement with consistent application.
85% see improvement in mild rashesSignificant Healing
Moderate diaper rash and chafing should be significantly healed. Poison ivy oozing begins to dry.
90% report substantial healingComplete Resolution
Most mild to moderate skin irritations fully resolved. If not improved, consult a healthcare provider.
95% achieve full healingβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Simple 4-ingredient formula with no unnecessary additives
- Effective barrier protection for diaper rash and chafing
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic for sensitive skin
- Affordable pharmacy brand pricing
- Multi-purpose use for various skin irritations
- Safe for all ages including newborns
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Long shelf life and stable formula
β Criticized
- Thick, paste-like consistency difficult to spread
- Leaves visible white residue on skin
- Can stain clothing and fabrics
- Small 1 oz tube empties quickly with regular use
- Not cosmetically elegant for daily skincare
- 20% zinc may not be strong enough for severe rashes
- Occlusive formula not ideal for acne-prone skin
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Nearly identical formula with 20% zinc oxide. Available in larger 2 oz tubes for better value per ounce.
Phthalate-free, paraben-free formula. Available in bulk packs up to 15 oz for institutional or heavy use.
Store brand alternative with comparable formula. Often available with store loyalty discounts.
π Comparison with Competitors
CVS Health Zinc Oxide Ointment
~$4.29Desitin Maximum Strength
~$8.99Balmex Diaper Rash Cream
~$7.49A+D Original Ointment
~$5.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
36 months after opening when stored properly
Store at room temperature 68Β°-77Β°F (20Β°-25Β°C). Keep away from excessive heat.
Squeezable metal tube with screw cap for hygienic dispensing
Yes, 1 oz size is TSA compliant for carry-on luggage (under 3.4 oz limit)
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, CVS Zinc Oxide Ointment is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Zinc oxide is a mineral-based ingredient that works as a physical barrier on top of the skin without significant systemic absorption. Dermatologists and OB-GYNs generally recommend mineral-based products like zinc oxide over chemical alternatives during pregnancy. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients of concern during pregnancy.
This product should be used with caution if you have fungal acne. While zinc oxide itself is safe and mineral oil/petrolatum technically don't contain the fatty acids (C11-C24) that feed Malassezia yeast, the highly occlusive nature of this formula can trap heat and moisture, potentially creating an environment where fungal acne could worsen. If you're prone to fungal acne, use sparingly and only on targeted areas rather than large surface areas. Consider lighter, non-occlusive alternatives for facial use.
Yes, this ointment can be used with other skincare actives, but proper layering is important. Apply your treatment products (retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA) first and allow them to fully absorb. Then apply the zinc oxide ointment as an occlusive final layer if needed. However, note that the thick, occlusive formula may not be ideal over certain actives as it can trap ingredients and increase irritation. It's primarily designed as a skin protectant rather than a daily skincare product.
This ointment works best for dry to normal skin types and is excellent for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula. It's ideal for targeted treatment of specific concerns like diaper rash, chafing, and poison ivy rather than as an all-over facial product. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should use it sparingly and only on affected areas, as the occlusive formula may feel heavy and could potentially contribute to breakouts if overused.
Results vary depending on the condition being treated. You'll experience immediate barrier protection upon application. For mild diaper rash, improvement is typically visible within 24-48 hours of consistent use. Moderate rashes and chafing usually show significant improvement within 3-5 days. For poison ivy/oak/sumac, the ointment helps dry oozing within 2-3 days. If your condition doesn't improve within 7 days or worsens, consult a healthcare provider.
This ointment should be applied as the final step after cleansing and thoroughly drying the skin. For diaper rash, apply liberally with each diaper change after cleaning and drying the area. For other skin irritations, apply to clean, dry skin as needed throughout the day. This is not designed to be part of a typical facial skincare routine - it's a targeted treatment product meant for specific skin concerns requiring barrier protection.
CVS Zinc Oxide Ointment has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. Zinc oxide itself is non-comedogenic, and pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil and petrolatum are generally well-tolerated. However, due to its thick, occlusive nature, it's best used on body areas prone to chafing or irritation rather than on the face, especially if you have acne-prone skin. The occlusive barrier can potentially trap debris and bacteria if used heavily over large facial areas.
CVS Zinc Oxide Ointment has a shelf life of approximately 36 months (3 years) after opening when stored properly at room temperature (68Β°-77Β°F / 20Β°-25Β°C). The stable formula of zinc oxide, mineral oil, petrolatum, and white wax doesn't degrade quickly. Check the expiration date printed on the packaging. Discard if the product changes color, develops an unusual odor, or separates, as these can indicate degradation.
Verdict: CVS Health Zinc Oxide Ointment is a reliable, no-frills skin protectant that delivers exactly what it promises. With only 4 clean ingredients and a proven 20% zinc oxide concentration, it's an excellent choice for treating diaper rash, chafing, and drying poison ivy/oak/sumac symptoms. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin and safe during pregnancy. While the thick, white paste isn't cosmetically elegant and may not be ideal for those with fungal acne, its effectiveness and affordability make it a medicine cabinet essential. For severe diaper rash, you may want to consider a 40% zinc oxide formula, but for everyday protection and mild to moderate irritation, this classic ointment gets the job done.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Zinc Oxide
Skin Protecting, Sunscreen Agent, Cosmetic Colorant
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 0 |
Palau White Clay
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|