7 bestCream For Shinglesof July 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
1
Children's Benadryl Itch and Pain Relief Stick for Bug Bites & Skin Irritations, Antihistamine 14 mL
Benadryl
9.8
14% off
2
Boiron Calendula Cream, First Aid Cream, 70 g Tube, Topical Cream for Skin, Non-Greasy, Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free
Boiron
9.6
3
Calmoseptine Ointment 4 oz
9.3
4
CARE CALAMINE LOT 200ML
Care +
9.0
5
Aqueous Calamine Cream 100
Care +
8.7
6
Zax’s Original #1 Bug Bite & Anti-Itch Cream - Effective & Soothing Rapid Relief - Pharmacist Developed - Made in Canada - Natural Ingredients - 28 Grams
ZAX'S ORIGINAL
8.4
7
Martiderm Calamina Plus Cream 75ml
MARTIDERM
8.1
A Guide to Selecting the Best Cream For Shingles
Choosing the right cream for shingles is important to help manage pain, soothe irritated skin, and support the healing process. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, can be very uncomfortable, so the right topical treatment can make a big difference in your recovery. When selecting a cream, it's important to consider what symptoms you want to address, such as pain, itching, or skin healing, and to be aware of any sensitivities or allergies you may have. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially for a condition like shingles.
Active Ingredients
The active ingredients in a cream determine how it works and what symptoms it targets. For shingles, common active ingredients include pain relievers (like lidocaine), anti-itch agents (such as pramoxine), or soothing agents (like calamine or aloe vera). Some creams may also contain antiviral or healing-promoting ingredients. It's important to choose a cream with ingredients that match your main symptoms—if pain is your biggest issue, a numbing agent may be best; if itching is severe, look for anti-itch components. Always check for any ingredients you may be allergic to.
Type of Relief Provided
Creams for shingles can offer different types of relief, such as pain relief, itch relief, or skin soothing. Some are designed to numb the area, while others focus on reducing inflammation or calming irritated skin. Think about which symptom is most bothersome for you and select a cream that targets that specific issue. For example, if burning pain is your main concern, a numbing cream is likely most helpful, while for general discomfort and redness, a soothing or anti-inflammatory cream may be better.
Skin Sensitivity and Allergies
Shingles can make your skin very sensitive, so it's important to choose a cream that is gentle and unlikely to cause irritation. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options are often best for sensitive skin. If you have a history of allergies or reactions to skincare products, look for creams labeled as suitable for sensitive skin and always do a patch test before applying to a larger area. Your personal skin sensitivity should guide you toward milder, simpler formulations.
Ease of Application
The texture and consistency of the cream can affect how easy it is to apply, especially if the affected area is large or very tender. Some creams are thick and may provide a protective barrier, while others are lighter and absorb quickly. If you need to apply the cream multiple times a day, a non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula may be more convenient. Consider your comfort and how often you’ll need to use the product when making your choice.
Prescription vs. Over-the-Counter
Some creams for shingles are available over the counter, while others require a prescription. Over-the-counter options are generally milder and focus on symptom relief, while prescription creams may contain stronger medications or antivirals. If your symptoms are severe or not improving, you may need a prescription product, so consult your doctor. For mild cases, an over-the-counter cream may be sufficient. Your symptom severity and medical advice should guide this decision.
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