Calamine Lotion in Korea: A Timeless Remedy in Modern Times

If you’ve ever suffered from itchy skin, heat rash, or insect bites, chances are someone has recommended calamine lotion. This pink-hued remedy has been a household staple around the world for decades — and Korea is no exception. While Korea is known for its cutting-edge skincare industry, calamine lotion still holds a unique place in the Korean medicine cabinet. Here's why.

What is Calamine Lotion?

Calamine lotion is a topical medication traditionally used to relieve mild itching and irritation. It typically contains:

• Zinc oxide – a skin protectant and anti-inflammatory
• Ferric oxide – gives it its distinctive pink color
• Sometimes other ingredients like phenol or menthol for extra soothing power

It’s most commonly used for:

• Bug bites
• Chickenpox
• Sunburn
• Eczema flare-ups
• Heat rash (especially in hot, humid climates like Korea in summer)

Calamine in Korean Skincare Culture

Interestingly, while calamine lotion is often viewed in the West as a simple over-the-counter remedy, it has found new life in the Korean beauty (K-beauty) scene. Some Korean skincare brands have incorporated calamine into acne treatments, calming creams, and even face masks, highlighting its anti-inflammatory and oil-absorbing benefits.

In fact, the pink tint of calamine has become somewhat of a trend — consumers associate the color with "calming" and "clarifying" effects, particularly for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Where to Buy Calamine Lotion in Korea

You can find calamine lotion easily in Korea at:

• Local pharmacies (약국): Just ask for “칼라민 로션 (kallamin losyeon)”
• Major online retailers like Coupang, Gmarket, and Olive Young
• Skincare brands that feature calamine as a hero ingredient (Look for products with keywords like "calming" or “진정,” meaning soothing)

Here are some popular K-beauty brands that offer products containing calamine:

Etude House

• Product: AC Clean Up Pink Powder Spot
• About: Contains calamine and salicylic acid. A popular spot treatment for acne that dries out blemishes overnight.

Mediheal

• Product: Calming masks and spot treatments
• About: Some of their calming mask lines include calamine, especially in limited-edition or sensitive skin series.
• 
  

Dr.Jart+

• Product: Cicapair Calming Gel Cream (not always calamine-based but often uses similar ingredients)
• Note: Dr.Jart doesn’t always use calamine specifically, but it’s popular in Korea for anti-redness and sensitive skin, often using tiger grass (Centella Asiatica) instead.

Innisfree

• Product: Bija Trouble Spot Essence
• About: Contains bija oil and calamine to soothe troubled, acne-prone skin. It’s gentle and plant-based, with calming effects.

Tips for Using Calamine Lotion

• Spot treatment only: Because it can be drying, apply only to affected areas.
• Shake well before use: The ingredients tend to separate.
• Use with care under makeup: It can leave a visible pink film.

Final Thoughts

While Korea is often praised for its high-tech beauty breakthroughs, sometimes the most effective solutions are the simplest. Calamine lotion continues to be a trusted go-to for soothing skin troubles — a perfect example of how traditional remedies still hold their ground in a fast-moving beauty market.

Whether you're traveling in Korea or just curious about global skincare trends, don’t overlook the humble pink bottle on the pharmacy shelf. It’s been cooling and calming skin for generations — and it's not going anywhere anytime soon.