Zinc ointments are used to treat many skin irritations, from chapped skin and minor burns to diaper rash. They can be used to treat a few facial skin rashes, such as acne and heat rash. Zinc ointments come in several forms, including zinc acetate and zinc oxide cream. Ask your doctor before using these creams on your face, and make sure the facial rash you have can be treated with zinc preparations.
Heat Rash
Heat rash is a pimply skin eruption caused by overheating and sweating. Wearing a hat in humid, hot weather can cause heat rash on your face and scalp. Heat rash can be itchy and sting, but it is essential you do not scratch the rash because it can then become infected. Applying zinc oxide cream can help reduce the rash and hasten recovery. Apply the cream to the affected area, but not near the eyes or mouth. If you are using the cream on your child, make sure she cannot ingest the cream or lick it off.
Acne
Acne most typically affects teenagers, but adults also get it. Acne usually appears on your face or trunk, and is caused by oil gland overproduction, irregular shedding of dead skin and buildup of bacteria. A 1.2 percent zinc acetate cream with 4 percent erythromycin can treat acne when applied to the skin twice a day. In addition,taking oral zinc supplements may also help clear acne, according to the MedlinePlus. Daily doses of 30 to 135 milligrams of elemental zinc, taken for short period of time, may help treat acne. Always consult your doctor before taking oral zinc supplements.
Toxicity
Overconsuming elemental zinc can have side effects including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney and stomach damage. The daily upper recommended dose for zinc is 40 milligrams per day. Taking more than 100 milligrams of zinc on daily basis for more than 10 years can double your risk of prostate cancer. When treating acne with zinc, follow your doctor's instructions.
Complications
Using zinc ointments on broken skin can cause burning, stinging and itching. You should not use zinc oxide or acetate cream if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the cream. Zinc oxide overdose results from accidentally ingesting the cream and can cause yellow skin and eyes, chills, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, cough, fever, diarrhea and mouth and throat irritation. Do not apply zinc oxide or acetate cream around your eyes, mouth and nose.
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