Zinc compounds are found in many skin care creams and ointments. Cosmeticsinfo.org states that zinc oxide, a common ingredient in many diaper rash creams, is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. Zinc sulfate, a compound found in many health and beauty products, is not known to be a hazard to the public if used in the amount and in the manner recommended. Zinc sulfate is water soluble but zinc oxide is highly insoluble in water, which can make it challenging to remove from the skin.
Step 1
Remove any excess zinc cream by gently wiping the skin with facial tissue. According to the National Institutes of Health, wax is an ingredient in a common variety of zinc oxide ointment used to treat diaper rash. This might also be another factor that can make zinc cream seem tough to remove. The skin might appear to have a whitish residue after wiping; this is OK. Discard the tissue.
Step 2
Wet the skin with warm water, whether in the shower, bath or tending to a baby in another setting. It is normal for the water to bead on the skin surface. This is because of the moisture repellent quality of zinc oxide.
Step 3
Wet the washcloth and add some mild soap, if desired. Adding soap might help lubricate the skin and break down the residue left from zinc cream. Use the soapy, wet washcloth to wash the skin, gently rubbing until it looks and feels clean.
Tips and Warnings
- Although using mild soap might make removing zinc cream easier, it is not necessary. A washcloth and warm water probably will suffice.
- Avoid rubbing the skin vigorously when washing. Zinc oxide cream is often used to treat diaper rash and other skin minor skin problems; vigorous rubbing can further irritate sensitive tissue.
Things You'll Need
- Facial tissue
- Warm water
- Mild soap
- Washcloth
