Zinc oxide creams and sunscreens can protect your skin from the sun's damaging UVB and UVA radiation. They also serve other purposes, such as treating acne and diaper rash. Learning more about zinc oxide creams can help you and your family to stay safe in the sun.
Composition
Zinc oxide sunscreen typically contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, according to the National Cancer Institute Drug Directory. Different sunscreens contain different percentages of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide depending on their sun protection factors, or SPF. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 contains about 5 percent titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, according to the National Cancer Institute Drug Directory. A sunscreen with an SPF of 60 contains about 7.5 percent titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Function
When you apply zinc oxide sunscreen to your skin, the cream blocks the sun's UVA and UVB ultraviolet lights and protects the skin from sunburns. For the best protection from the sun, wear sunscreen year-round, even during the winter. Cover all exposed skin with sunscreen.
Significance
Exposure to the sun's UVA and UVB rays can accelerate the aging of your skin and can increase your risk of skin cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Zinc oxide sunscreens can help you protect your skin from the sun's harmful light rays.
Warning
Even high-SPF sunscreens and creams may not protect you entirely from the sun's damaging UV rays, according to MayoClinic.com. Stay out of the sun during the middle of the day, from about 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wear hats and other protective clothing. Avoid the sun entirely if you are taking any medications, such as antibiotics or diabetes medications, which may increase your sensitivity to the sun.
Other Uses
Some companies produce zinc oxide creams designed to treat acne or diaper rash in babies. These creams typically contain many ingredients besides zinc oxide, including sorbitol, propylene glycol, benzyl alcohol, glyceryl oleate, water, coconut oil, cod liver oil, paraffin, mineral oil, dimethicone, ozokerite, beeswax, aloe and some fragrance, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Household Products Database. Use zinc oxide diaper rash creams on skin only, and keep the product out of reach of children.
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