Calamine lotion is a widely available OTC topical medication that can help relieve itching caused by minor skin irritations. It can also help dry out oozing and weeping from reactions to poisonous plants, such as poison oak, poison ivy, or poison sumac.

The active ingredient in calamine lotion is a combination of zinc oxide and 0.5% iron (ferric) oxide. The iron oxide gives it its identifying pink color. Calamine lotion also typically includes inactive ingredients, such as: purified water.

Calamine lotion isn’t a cure, but it can help relieve symptoms. To use calamine lotion on a pimple, first wash your face with warm water. Shake the bottle, then apply the calamine lotion to your pimple using clean fingers, a cotton ball, or a Q-tip. If using your fingers to apply, be sure to wash your hands when you’re done. Let the calamine lotion dry to a light pink.