Calamine Powder

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Calamine Powder is a fine, light pink powder primarily composed of zinc oxide and a small percentage of ferric oxide, which gives it its characteristic pink color. It is an inorganic compound widely used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations due to its soothing, antiseptic, and astringent properties. Calamine Powder is commonly applied topically to relieve itching, minor skin irritations, insect bites, rashes, and sunburn. It acts by forming a protective barrier on the skin, reducing inflammation and providing a mild cooling effect.

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Category: Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) Tags: Calamine powder, Personal care and cosmetics, Pharmaceutical formulations, Pink soothing powder, Skin irritation relief

Description

Table of Contents

Calamine Powder

Primary Uses

Pharmaceuticals
- Used as a topical antipruritic agent to relieve itching and discomfort caused by eczema, poison ivy, insect bites, and other minor skin irritations.
- Incorporated into calamine lotion and powder formulations for soothing sunburns and mild burns.
- Acts as a mild antiseptic and protective agent in dermatological creams and ointments.
Cosmetic & Personal Care
- Used in powders and body talcs to soothe irritated skin and absorb moisture.
- Included in formulations for baby powders and skin care products to reduce friction and irritation.
Medical & Clinical
- Employed in wound care products as a protective and drying agent for minor cuts, abrasions, and weeping skin conditions.
- Used in combination with other actives in anti-itch and anti-inflammatory topical preparations.

Secondary Uses

Veterinary Medicine
- Applied topically to animals for soothing skin irritations and minor wounds.
Industrial Applications
- Used in some formulations as a pigment or functional additive in cosmetics and dermatological products.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Zinc oxide mixed with ferric oxide
Common/Trade Names: Calamine Powder USP, Calamine Powder
CAS Number: 8012-95-1 (Calamine mixture)
HS Code: 3206.49.00
Molecular Formula: Primarily ZnO with Fe2O3 traces
Synonyms:
- Calamine
- Zinc Ferrite (when referring to the iron-containing compound)
- Calamine Pink Powder
- Calamine USP Grade

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Fine powder
Color & Odor: Light pink; odorless or very faint mineral odor
Melting Point: Decomposes above 1975°C (zinc oxide)
Boiling Point: Not applicable (inorganic solid)
Density: Approx. 4.0 g/cm³
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in acids and alkalis
pH: Slightly alkaline when suspended in water (~7.5–8.5)
Stability: Chemically stable under normal conditions

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous under normal use
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL for zinc oxide dust: 5 mg/m³ (respirable)
Toxicity: Low toxicity; inhalation of dust may cause mild respiratory irritation
Reactivity: Stable; avoid strong acids which may liberate zinc salts

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place in tightly sealed containers to avoid moisture uptake
Container Type: Airtight containers, typically HDPE or glass jars
Shelf Life: Typically 3–5 years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid dust formation; use PPE to avoid inhalation and eye contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Pharmacopoeia Compliance: Complies with USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. standards
FDA Status: Approved as a Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) ingredient for topical use
Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous material
Waste Disposal: Dispose as non-hazardous solid waste per local regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Minimal environmental hazard; zinc compounds may affect aquatic life at high concentrations
Persistence: Inorganic and persistent in the environment
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate significantly
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Not biodegradable; inert mineral powder

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Dust mask or respirator
Gloves
Protective goggles
Lab coat or apron

Handling Measures:

Avoid generating and inhaling dust
Use local exhaust ventilation in powder handling areas
Work in well-ventilated areas

Storage Measures:

Keep containers tightly closed
Protect from moisture and contamination

Hygiene Practices:

Wash hands thoroughly after handling
Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; if irritation persists, seek medical attention
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; not expected to be harmful in small amounts; seek medical advice if large quantities ingested

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate for surrounding fire
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if necessary
Decomposition Products: None under normal fire conditions; may release zinc oxides at very high temperatures