Calamine lipids are basic zinc oxide colored with iron oxide and have a mild drying action on the skin. Calamine is commonly used to relieve itching and soothe minor skin irritations. It works through an anti-irritant effect. After being applied to the skin, calamine evaporates, producing a cooling effect, which helps relieve itching. It also helps relieve sunburn. Calamine Lotion and Cream also contains the active ingredient zinc oxide, which has antiseptic properties that help prevent infection from scratching. It is used for the symptomatic treatment of mild itching and insect bites.