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We asked the dermatologists.

Keep reading to learn more about calamine lotion for acne.

Close up of pink calamine lotion spilled on to an orange background.

Liz deSousa for Byrdie

Meet the Experts

What Is Calamine Lotion?

The formula is actually quite simpleand a true skincare OG.

It imparts a cooling sensation as it dries, helping to soothe irritated skin even further.

Who Should Use It:Anyone looking to soothe minor skin conditions.

How Often Can You Use It:Apply to affected areas every six to eight hours as needed.

Works Well With:For best results, calamine lotion should be used on its own.

Past generational use of calamine lotion on acne may have been more so out of convenience than efficacy.

There are reports of calamine lotion helping to treat acne," explains Zeichner.

But in today’s skincare landscape, there are simply better options.

Still, its worth keeping a bottle of the old-school pink potion around.

it’s possible for you to apply it to affected areas every six to eight hours as needed.

Searle T, Ali FR, Al-Niaimi F.Zinc in dermatology.J Dermatolog Treat.

2022;33(5):2455-2458.

Mott Children’s Hospital.Calamine (topical).

Updated July 9, 2014.