Zinc oxide
Zinc Oxide
Zinc Oxide (pronounced: zink oks-ide) is a chemical compound that is commonly used in various medical and health applications.
Etymology
The term "Zinc Oxide" is derived from the Zinc element in the periodic table and the term "Oxide" which refers to a compound that contains one or more oxygen atoms.
Definition
Zinc Oxide is a white powder that is insoluble in water. It is used as an additive in numerous materials and products including rubbers, plastics, ceramics, glass, cement, lubricants, paints, ointments, adhesives, sealants, pigments, foods, batteries, ferrites, fire retardants, and first-aid tapes.
Medical Uses
In the medical field, Zinc Oxide is often used in ointments, creams, and lotions that are applied to the skin. It is known for its ability to protect the skin from irritants and harmful UV rays. It is commonly used in products such as sunscreen and diaper rash creams.
Zinc Oxide also has antiseptic properties, making it useful in treating minor skin conditions such as burns and cuts. It is often found in topical antiseptics and can also be used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Related Terms
- Zinc: A chemical element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It is a necessary mineral for the body, playing a crucial role in cell division, cell growth, wound healing, and the breakdown of carbohydrates.
- Oxide: A compound that contains at least one oxygen atom and one other element. Most of the Earth's crust consists of solid oxides.
- Sunscreen: A lotion, spray, gel, foam, stick or other topical product that absorbs or reflects some of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin exposed to sunlight and thus helps protect against sunburn.
- Diaper Rash: A common form of inflamed skin (dermatitis) that appears as a patchwork of bright red skin on your baby's bottom.
- Topical Antiseptics: Antiseptics are substances that stop or slow down the growth of microorganisms. They’re frequently used in hospitals and other medical settings to reduce the risk of infection during surgery and other procedures.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Zinc oxide
- Wikipedia's article - Zinc oxide
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