Salicylic or zinc ointment, which is better?

To treat inflammatory processes on the skin, eczema and dermatitis, salicylic or zinc ointment is used. Due to their drying and antibacterial properties, the products are effective for psoriasis, allergies, and acne. Ointments based on zinc and salicylic acid can be used either separately or as part of combined preparations. The choice of product depends on the disease or cosmetic problem that it copes with better.

To treat inflammatory processes on the skin, eczema and dermatitis, salicylic or zinc ointment is used.

Compound similarities

Zinc ointment has drying, astringent and disinfectant properties. The mixture is a mixture of petroleum jelly with zinc oxide, which helps eliminate itching, skin irritation and relieves inflammation. Salicylic ointment also eliminates oily skin and dries out small pimples and pustules. The white-gray homogeneous mass contains a mixture of salicylic acid and petroleum jelly.

Both ointments are used to treat dermatitis and dermatoses.

Thanks to Vaseline, which is present in both medicinal mixtures, they have an additional softening effect on the skin.

Differences between Salicylic and Zinc ointments

Medicines have a common component in their composition and are prescribed for the treatment of skin diseases. However, ointments also have a number of differences, including a different mechanism of action. The differences are due to different active substances in the mixtures.

Zinc belongs to the group of antiseptics and is used to treat various skin diseases. The mechanism of action of the product consists of adsorbing, drying and antimicrobial effects. Due to its adsorbing property, it can be used in inflammatory processes.

Salicylic acid has antimicrobial and exfoliating effects. An ointment based on it helps reduce the production of subcutaneous fat, thereby smoothing and cleansing the upper layer of the dermis. The product is used for dermatoses. Available in the form of a mixture with 2% and 5% active ingredient content. This allows you to expand the scope of the drug.

1. zinc oxide draws out and dries inflammation;
2. salicylic acid does not have a pulling effect and reduces inflammation due to its antimicrobial properties.

Salicylic ointment helps reduce the production of subcutaneous fat, thereby smoothing and cleansing the upper layer of the dermis.

Contraindications

Both ointments are used to treat skin diseases. However, their contraindications for use are slightly different.

It is not recommended to prescribe salicylic ointment for:

1. allergies to the main component;
2. the use of sulfonylurea derivatives, hypoglycemic agents, and Methotrexate.

It is not recommended to apply the mixture to affected areas treated with other external ointments. The course of use should not exceed 10-12 days, as addiction occurs and the therapeutic effect decreases. The composition should not be applied to moles, birthmarks, or any neoplasms.

Contraindications to the use of zinc oxide-based products are:

1. acute purulent lesions of the dermis;
2. deep wounds;
3. chicken pox, skin tuberculosis;
4. burns;
5. individual intolerance to components.

How to use Salicylic and Zinc ointment

Medicinal mixtures are used to treat skin diseases and are intended for external use. Salicylic ointment is applied to the dermis, previously treated with an antiseptic. For the treatment of rough skin, calluses and keratinized tissue, a 5% and 10% form of the drug is recommended. In other cases, a 2% composition is used. You can cover the lubricated areas with a gauze bandage or bandage.

Zinc ointment should be applied carefully, avoiding contact with the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and genitals. The mixture is applied in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin 2-3 times a day. The course of treatment is prescribed depending on the diagnosis and condition of the patient.

They can be used as part of combination therapy, as well as for the treatment of the same skin disease. Depending on the degree of dermatosis, they are used separately or simultaneously. Salicylic paste softens and cleanses the upper layer of the dermis, zinc paste dries and heals wounds and cracks.

Zinc ointment should be applied carefully, avoiding contact with the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and genitals.

Side effects of Salicylic and Zinc ointment

The fatty base of external products is Vaseline. It is one of the auxiliary components of mixtures that are used to treat skin pathologies. The product is odorless and tasteless, but can cause adverse reactions in the body: hives, rash, allergic irritation and redness of the skin, burning at the sites of application.

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies

Both products can be purchased at the pharmacy without restrictions. It is recommended to use the over-the-counter drug only as prescribed by a doctor and in accordance with the instructions for use.

It is not advisable to use the products without making an accurate diagnosis and the nature of the skin lesion.

Reviews from doctors

Valentina, pediatrician, Krasnoyarsk

Zinc ointment is an affordable and effective remedy that I recommend to all parents of children under 1 year old. A mixture based on zinc oxide copes well with prickly heat, diaper rash, and diaper rash.

Stanislav, dermatologist, St. Petersburg

Both products help relieve skin irritation caused by allergies and pathogenic bacteria. The drugs have almost no contraindications, so they can be used in both adult patients and children.

Patient reviews

Lyudmila, 36 years old, Volgodonsk

My son developed teenage acne, which he could only get rid of with the help of Zinc ointment. The doctor recommended a course of treatment in conjunction with taking vitamins. The skin has become clear, pimples appear rarely, 1-2 pimples, no more.

Victoria, 44 years old, Nizhny Novgorod

I work in a hazardous industry, so choosing a product for my skin has always been a problem. The dermatologist advised using a 2% Salicylic mixture on the face to remove blackheads and relieve inflammation. I use the paste as cleansing masks.

Ointments are inexpensive and accessible medicines. The average price in a pharmacy is 40-50 rubles. depending on the form of release and composition of the drug.

Dermatological problems bother many people, regardless of their age and gender. This is due to the fact that the skin is very sensitive and reacts to the slightest changes in the body. Zinc ointment is an affordable and effective way to get rid of these problems. Therefore, despite the wide range of analogues, this medicine does not disappear from pharmacy shelves. In addition, it has a minimal list of contraindications and can be used from infancy.

Zinc ointment: application and properties

Zinc ointment fights acne and helps eliminate oily shine on the face. The main active ingredient of the product is zinc oxide. It has the following properties:

1. absorbs excess sebum;
2. exhibits antiseptic and disinfectant effects;
3. dries out inflammation;
4. reduces redness and swelling;
5. stimulates skin cell renewal.

This medicine can be used independently or as an element of auxiliary therapy in the treatment of severe forms of acne. It makes microorganisms more vulnerable to the action of local antibiotics. As a result of the joint use of such medications, the effect of skin cleansing occurs quickly and lasts for a long time.

Since zinc ointment and paste do not have a systemic effect on the body, they can be used during pregnancy and lactation. The only contraindication to the use of these products is individual intolerance to their components. The instructions for using zinc ointment state that in case of inflammatory processes it must be used externally three times a day until the unpleasant symptoms disappear. Apply the product in a thin layer to cleansed skin. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of skin manifestations and the presence of concomitant diseases.

Zinc paste and ointment: what is the difference between these products?

On pharmacy counters you can find both zinc ointment and paste. They differ in the concentration of zinc oxide (10% in the ointment and 25% in the paste) and excipients. The ointment contains, in addition to zinc oxide, only petroleum jelly, while the paste additionally contains starch. It is an adsorbent and thickener, due to which the permeability of the dense mass deep into the skin and the bloodstream is reduced.

This useful property allows the ointment to be used in acute inflammatory processes, since the permeability and sensitivity of the skin in these cases is increased.

The difference between the ointment is that it penetrates much more easily into the deep layers of the skin and blood vessels, so it is advisable to use it for chronic diseases. In addition, this form of medication is absorbed faster and does not cause dry skin as often as a paste. It is better not to use it during wet processes, since additional moisturizing in this case is useless.

Why do you need salicylic-zinc paste?

If, in addition to acne, there are acne spots and enlarged pores with blackheads on the face, then salicylic-zinc paste is a good choice to eliminate them. Due to the presence of salicylic acid in the composition of the medicine, it tightens pores, brightens and dissolves blackheads over time, and also reduces the severity of scars remaining from former pustular elements. For hyperhidrosis, it helps dry the skin and normalize sweat production.

When used externally, salicylic-zinc paste reduces signs of inflammation, disinfects the skin and stimulates its renewal.

As a rule, treatment with this drug is well tolerated and does not cause side effects. In case of redness, tingling or itching of the skin, its use should be discontinued. There are also certain contraindications for use:

1. acute purulent skin diseases;
2. pregnancy and lactation;
3. hypersensitivity and allergies.

What does salicylic ointment help with?

There is an ointment on the pharmaceutical market in which the active ingredient is salicylic acid (this is aspirin). Like zinc ointment for acne, it helps dry out inflammation and remove redness. The medicine is concentrated, so it is recommended to apply it pointwise to the elements of inflammation. Indications for use are as follows:

1. pyoderma (pustular rashes on the skin);
2. eczema;
3. psoriasis;
4. acne;
5. calluses;
6. oily seborrhea;
7. Diaper rash.

Since this medicine has a pronounced active effect, it cannot be applied in its pure form to the entire face. It is better to use the ointment as part of medical and cosmetic face masks, since with the help of additional ingredients the beneficial effect of the drug can be enhanced and the irritating effect can be minimized.

Salicylic face mask: options for preparing it at home

Masks with salicylic ointment may vary in composition depending on skin type. They must be applied after cleansing the face, without touching the area around the eyes. You need to wash off the mask with warm water without using cosmetics. Below are recipes for preparing face cleansing masks at home:

1. Mask for increased oiliness of the skin of the face. You need to mix 15 g of pink and black clay and dilute this mixture with warm boiled water until a paste-like consistency is formed. Add 1 tsp to the resulting composition. salicylic ointment, mix thoroughly and apply a thin layer to the face for 20 minutes.
2. Mask for dry skin type. To prepare it, use salicylic ointment (2 percent) and any night moisturizer. These ingredients must be mixed in equal parts and applied to the face before going to bed. For the best effect, it is recommended to leave this product on overnight.
3. Mask for combination skin. In an enamel bowl, dilute 30 g of green clay with warm water (to the consistency of sour cream). Then add 5 ml of salicylic ointment, stir and use as a face mask for 15 minutes. After washing your face, you need to moisturize it with a nourishing lotion or cream.

Salicylic-zinc paste against sweat

Sweating is a physiological process that ensures effective heat exchange and prevents overheating of the body. But with excessive sweating, a person may feel physical and psychological discomfort. Does salicylic or zinc ointment help with armpit sweat and excessively wet palms? Having studied numerous reviews, we can conclude that these medications are quite effective when used systematically.

For 2 weeks in the evening after water hygiene procedures, a thin layer of salicylic-zinc ointment should be applied to the armpits, hands and heels. The product is poorly absorbed, so it is better to leave it on all night, and in the morning lightly wipe off the residue with a clean towel. If the effect is insufficient, the paste can be reapplied up to 4 times during the day. You can repeat such two-week courses 2 times a year, however, if the skin becomes red, itchy and peeling, it is better to avoid using this paste.

Salicylic-zinc paste for age spots

Salicylic-zinc paste has lightening properties, so it can be used to eliminate age spots. You should not expect an immediate effect, since the medicine works gradually. But if you apply it daily to the problem cleansed area of ​​the face several times a day, then over time you can notice a significant lightening of the dark areas. A big plus is that zinc oxide is a natural filter against ultraviolet rays. That is why it prevents the appearance of new age spots.

Salicylic acid in the composition of the medicine provides exfoliation of dead cells, and at the same time a slight lightening. For those with dry facial skin, it is better to dilute the salicylic-zinc paste with a few drops of any baby oil to avoid irritation and severe tightening of the pores on the face.

Fighting diaper rash

In newborns, in the first months of life, due to adaptation to environmental conditions, the development of digestion, or poor-quality diapers, diaper rash may occur, causing discomfort and pain.

Of course, you can fight them using special creams and powders, but the price of these products is high, and they often contain perfumes, which is undesirable for small children. The main active ingredient in such products is zinc oxide, so they can be successfully replaced with zinc paste.

When changing a diaper after washing the baby, apply a thin layer of medication evenly to the diaper rash area. In case of pronounced damage to the skin or bleeding, it is better to use a paste-like product, and in case of mild forms of diaper rash, you can use ointment. Zinc oxide dries wet parts of the body, reduces pain and inflammation, so the newborn feels relieved and calm. The medicine should be used twice a day until the symptoms of irritation disappear.

Despite the beneficial properties of zinc paste, there are pathological conditions in which its use will not bring a positive result. Neither zinc nor salicylic pastes help get rid of skin or nail fungus. These drugs do not have a fungicidal effect and therefore cannot be used in the treatment of these diseases. If mycosis is suspected, their use, on the contrary, is even dangerous, since they can distort the clinical picture and complicate the process of making a correct diagnosis.

Due to its wide range of beneficial effects, zinc ointment has been and remains a popular remedy for the treatment of various skin diseases. This is evidenced by reviews of people who discovered this remedy. Another advantage of this medicine is its low cost and the ability to buy it at any pharmacy.

1. November 9, 2018
2. Dermatology
3. Catherine

Salicylic-zinc ointment is widely used in medicine for the treatment of dermatological diseases and other pathologies. It is in great demand among patients because it is highly effective and relatively inexpensive. This ointment is also called Lassara paste. The second name is explained by the fact that this drug was first manufactured by Lassar, a German dermatologist.

Pharmacological group and description

This drug belongs to the category of drugs for external use that have a healing and drying effect.

Salicylic-zinc paste (ointment) is a substance with a creamy, dense texture. The main color is white, but the shade can be milky or slightly gray.

Compound

The composition contains 2 types of components: main and auxiliary.

The main active elements of the ointment are:

1. zinc oxide (250 mg is present in 1 g of ointment);
2. salicylic acid (20 mg of salicylic acid is useful for 1 g of ointment).

The following additional components are present:

Package

Manufacturers of medicines have offered several packaging options.

1. Aluminum tubes. The volume can reach 25 or 50 g. The tube is packed in a cardboard box.
2. Dark glass jars with a tight nylon lid. In this case, the volumes of the cans are identical to the volumes of the tube (25 and 50 g).
3. Bottles made of polymer. The bottle size reaches 50 and 100 g.

Each cardboard box contains detailed instructions for using salicylic-zinc ointment.

Depending on the dosage and type of packaging, the cost of the medicine varies.

pharmachologic effect

This drug is a combination drug intended for local application. The elements included in the paste effectively complement each other’s action, which has a positive effect on the speed of treatment.

Salicylic acid acts in several ways:

1. inflammatory processes are reduced;
2. the skin becomes dry;
3. pathological microorganisms are neutralized (antiseptic properties);
4. the stratum corneum of the epidermis softens and exfoliates;
5. discomfort, itching are relieved;
6. the lumens of the capillaries in the area of ​​application of the product narrow.

When applied to the skin, this compound affects the nerve endings, which reduces pain and improves trophism.

In addition, dermatology uses the property of salicylic acid to significantly reduce the secretory function of the sweat and sebaceous glands.

Zinc oxide is characterized as an anti-inflammatory agent with antiseptic properties. When applied to the skin it exhibits drying and astringent properties.

Thanks to regular application to the skin, it is possible to reduce exudation and weeping. For this reason, zinc-containing ointments and creams are recommended for weeping wounds and rashes.

Vaseline in the ointment actively interacts with zinc oxide, resulting in the formation of a protective film on the surface of the skin after application. It prevents irritating particles from entering the skin, which blocks the appearance of new rashes.

Indications for use

Salicylic-zinc ointment is often prescribed for the treatment of dermatological diseases and mechanical damage to the skin. The list of pathologies for which Lassara paste gives high results includes:

1. skin diseases of inflammatory and infectious origin;
2. burns;
3. eczema and ulcers (including weeping);
4. some types of lichen (pityriasis versicolor, multicolored and pink);
5. dry and oily seborrhea;
6. dermatitis;
7. foot hyperhidrosis;
8. psoriasis;
9. acne.

Contraindications

The advantage of zinc-salicylic ointment is the minimum number of contraindications. This list includes:

1. individual sensitivity to the components of the composition;
2. purulent skin lesions;
3. increased dryness of the skin;
4. children up to 12 years of age.

Use with caution

There are several pathologies and conditions in which the use of this drug should be limited:

1. kidney disease (especially in case of renal failure);
2. severe blood diseases (including anemia and poor clotting).

There are no restrictions for elderly patients unless there are other contraindications.

To avoid possible complications, using the paste on your own is not recommended.

Dosage and method of administration

According to the instructions for use of salicylic-zinc ointment, this product is intended for topical application. When using, you should adhere to the following recommendations:

1. The affected area of ​​skin should be washed and dried thoroughly before the procedure. The ointment should not be applied to wet areas of the epidermis.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent infection in the wound.
3. Remove a small amount of paste from the tube or bottle and apply it to the affected area in a thin layer.
4. It is recommended to apply the ointment not only to damaged areas, but also to cover a small area of ​​healthy tissue.
5. There is no need to rub in the product. In most cases, an occlusive dressing is also not required.
6. After some time, the remaining product must be removed, since the ointment is very thick and greasy. The product is poorly absorbed into the skin and leaves traces.

The frequency of application is prescribed by the doctor. This takes into account the patient’s diagnosis and age.

As a standard treatment regimen with salicylic-zinc ointment for adult patients, it is recommended to apply the product 2 or 3 times a day. For patients under 18 years of age, the dosage and frequency of use are determined by the doctor.

If the drug is used to treat open wounds, then the paste is applied only along the edges. Getting the composition inside the wound is strictly contraindicated. This may cause itching, burning and other side effects.

When treating burns, doctors recommend careful application of the composition to the affected area of ​​skin and subsequent application of an occlusive dressing. This will create a reliable barrier that prevents contact with external factors and will accelerate tissue regeneration.

Side effects

In some cases, side effects may occur when using the paste. In most cases, local reactions occur in the area of ​​application. The absence of common side effects is explained by the fact that when applied to the skin, the active substances are absorbed into the blood in small quantities.

The list of side effects includes:

1. skin rashes;
2. itching;
3. burning;
4. redness of the skin;
5. excessive dryness of the epithelium.

If during the use of the paste one or more of the above symptoms are identified, further use of the product should be discontinued. To correct treatment, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Overdose

Cases of overdose occur extremely rarely, since the active substances of the paste are absorbed into the blood in small quantities. The risk of overdose occurs if salicylic-zinc ointment is applied to large areas of skin for a long time.

Exceeding the dose in this case may be accompanied by symptoms characteristic of side effects. In such circumstances, it is necessary to discontinue treatment with this drug.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

The instructions for use of salicylic-zinc ointment do not contain data on its effect on the health of the fetus. This is explained by the lack of research and clinical trials in this area. In this regard, the use of ointment during pregnancy is undesirable, but possible for some indications. The decision to prescribe in each case is made by the doctor. Therapy is carried out under regular medical supervision.

During lactation, you should refrain from using salicylic-zinc ointment. Admission is possible only on the recommendation of a doctor.

Use in pediatrics

The drug is not prescribed to children aged 0 to 12 years. This is due to the lack of data on the effect of paste on the health and condition of children.

Interaction with other drugs

A paste with zinc oxide and salicylic acid combines well with many other medications, both local and for oral administration. For this reason, the medicine is often prescribed as part of complex therapy for various dermatological diseases.

Recommendations

When studying what salicylic-zinc ointment helps with, you should pay special attention to additional recommendations.

When using a paste, apply the composition only to the skin. Contact with mucous membranes or eyes is unacceptable. If this happens, you must thoroughly rinse your eyes or mucous membranes under running water. This will help avoid irritation and increased dryness and itching.

Effect on ability to drive a car

Salicylic acid and zinc oxide have no effect on the driver's reaction speed and condition. For this reason, the ointment can be used while driving vehicles and other complex mechanisms.

Release from pharmacies and storage features

The paste is on the list of drugs that are sold in pharmacies without a doctor's prescription.

The medicine should be stored in a place protected from direct sunlight. The air temperature should not exceed +25 degrees. If the storage conditions are met, the paste can be used for 4 years. You can check the release date on the packaging. After this period, the use of the ointment is prohibited.

Salicylic-zinc ointment for acne

Pimples or acne often accompany people for several reasons:

1. hormonal surge during puberty;
2. presence of oily skin prone to inflammation;
3. diseases associated with hormonal levels;
4. poor nutrition;
5. failure to comply with hygiene requirements.

Whatever the cause of skin rashes, salicylic-zinc ointment can effectively treat them; reviews of this drug fully confirm this statement from the manufacturers.

To treat acne and pimples with a paste containing zinc and salicylic acid, you should follow several rules.

1. Apply the ointment only to clean, well-dried skin.
2. Do not use large amounts of ointment. Apply the cream pointwise to single pimples, lightly rubbing it into the skin. If the rash covers a large area of ​​skin on the face, you need to treat each individual defect. Getting a thick, oily paste into healthy areas of facial skin can cause clogging of pores, which will lead to the opposite effect.
3. For spot application, repeat the procedure 4-5 times a day. It is advisable to do this before bedtime.
4. While using salicylic-zinc ointment for the face, doctors do not recommend using decorative cosmetics (foundation, powder, concealer).
5. During this period, you should refrain from sunbathing, going to the solarium, to the beach and to the sauna. Aggressive influence of external factors can aggravate the condition of the skin.

It should be remembered: acne is a consequence of one or another abnormality in the human body. If you do not get rid of the root cause, acne will not be overcome for long. After some time she will appear again.

Reviews from doctors and patients

This drug has been actively used for several decades. During this time, he managed to earn a reputation as a reliable effective treatment for dermatological diseases. Doctors note several benefits of the paste.

1. Wide range of applications. The ointment actively fights many dermatological diseases, has an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, healing and drying effect.
2. Few contraindications. This makes the drug almost universal.
3. Rare occurrence of side effects. Doctors note that the composition of the ointment is well tolerated by patients and does not cause negative symptoms.

This ointment is a must-have item in many home first aid kits. Patients note several features of the paste.

1. Easy to use. According to the instructions for salicylic-zinc ointment, it is enough to apply the composition to the affected area.
2. Relatively low cost. Compared to many other dermatological ointments, this medicine remains inexpensive.
3. High efficiency. For minor skin lesions, just a few applications are sufficient to eliminate symptoms. If you believe the reviews, it is enough to use salicylic-zinc ointment for acne once at night.

Based on the above features of the drug and its principle of action, we can come to the following conclusion: Lassara paste is an effective inexpensive topical drug. You can buy it without a prescription. Meanwhile, before using the medicine, you should consult a specialist.