Zinc, a mineral renowned for its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing attributes, proves versatile for both internal and external skincare applications. Whether incorporated into your diet or taken as supplements, or applied topically, zinc offers a range of benefits for your skin. Extensively researched for its anti-inflammatory prowess, zinc becomes a valuable ingredient in skincare formulations addressing breakouts, inflammatory skin issues, and even alleviating dry skin linked to conditions like eczema.Dive into the details to determine if zinc is the perfect addition to your skincare routine!
What is Zinc?
Zinc stands as a crucial mineral vital for various essential bodily functions. These include fortifying the immune system, facilitating wound healing, contributing to DNA/protein synthesis and growth, and aiding in the development of children. Emphasizing the importance of daily consumption, since zinc isn't stored in the body for extended periods, regular intake is crucial for sustained overall health. A deficiency in zinc can lead to various conditions such as rashes and lesions.
The outermost layer of our skin contains a higher concentration of zinc compared to any underlying layers. This intriguing fact underscores the significance of supplementing with this mineral, ensuring an adequate supply to support the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
ZINC
CATEGORY: Anti-acne
PRIMARY ADVANTAGES: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, oil regulation
APPLICATION TIMING: Typically, it can be taken once a day, with a recommended maximum of 40mg.
SYNERGIZES WITH: Zinc complements well with various supplements and vitamins, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin B5. Prior to incorporating any new supplements, including zinc, it's advisable to seek guidance from your healthcare provider.
AVOID COMBINING WITH: Multivitamins and other zinc sources that might lead to an excessive intake.
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Zinc's Skin Benefits
• Lesion and Acne Treatment: Zinc collaborates with other vitamins and minerals to address skin lesions. When taken orally, it can also reduce the severity of acne.
• Anti-inflammatory Power: With its anti-inflammatory properties, topically applied zinc can aid in reducing inflammation associated with chronic skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne, as explained.
• Wound Healing Support: Topical application of zinc oxide, has demonstrated its ability to protect the skin and assist in wound healing and regeneration. It plays a dual role in shielding the skin and supporting the healing process.
• UV Ray Protection: Zinc's protective qualities, make zinc oxide a common ingredient in effective sunscreens. It acts as a barrier, reflecting sunlight and shielding the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing issues from erythema to premature aging, as highlighted by Ng.
• Antibacterial Properties: Zinc being naturally inert, serves as an excellent sun filter for those with sensitive or reactive skin. Additionally, it boasts antibacterial, astringent, and barrier-protective qualities.
• Collagen Synthesis Assistance: Zinc acts as an enzyme cofactor, plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis and DNA repair. This contribution helps maintain a youthful and healthy appearance for the skin.
• Over-the-Counter Availability: Unlike some exclusive skincare ingredients, zinc products are readily available in most beauty and drugstores, ensuring accessibility for all.
Zinc for Dry Skin
Zinc is commonly recognized for its sun protection qualities, but its significance for skin health extends far beyond. Harper notes that insufficient intake of Zinc, along with Vitamins A, D, B3, or iron, in your diet can lead to extremely dry skin.
Zinc is well-tolerated, even by the most sensitive or compromised skin, making it a key ingredient in baby diaper rash creams. Dry skin can result from various factors, such as genetics, aging, and environmental influences. The key to addressing it lies in fortifying the skin barrier and preventing transepidermal water loss. Zinc accomplishes both by controlling water loss and strengthening the skin's barrier function, offering a dual benefit.
Side Effects of Zinc
When considering zinc supplementation, researching reputable brands (Twinlab, Solgar, Rainbow Light, Metagenics, Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, and Eidon recommended by experts) and adhering to daily dosage recommendations (up to 8 or 9mg daily, 11mg if pregnant, and 12mg if lactating, with a TUL of 40mg) is crucial. Frank emphasizes that these recommended amounts are relatively small, as the body doesn't require large quantities of the mineral. Excessive zinc intake may not enhance skin health but can lead to issues like acne, eczema, and dermatitis.
Overdose of zinc can result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, headaches, low copper levels, and a weakened immune response. Careful consideration and consultation with a physician are essential when taking supplements, starting with a lower dose and adjusting based on individual reactions.
Certain antibiotic medications and other prescriptions can hinder zinc absorption, and alcohol can also impede its effectiveness, according to Herrmann.
How to Use It
Selecting the right type of zinc for skincare is crucial due to its various functions. Use micronized zinc in skincare formulations to avoid leaving a white cast on the skin. While zinc oxide is a popular sun filter, it is effective in spot treatments, reducing redness/swelling and preventing infection.
Experts unanimously endorse obtaining zinc through a diverse and healthy diet as the best internal supplementation for skin health. The superior absorption of vitamins and minerals from food, reducing the likelihood of exceeding upper limits compared to pill forms, as the cumulative amounts of supplements can vary significantly from what's stated on the bottle.
As with any supplement, consulting a physician before incorporation is crucial. For individuals dealing with skin conditions, wound healing issues, or brittle hair and nails, we recommend discussing symptoms with a physician as a priority.
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II DISCLAIMER: Every skin is different, not everything works for everybody. I recommend you test the product before completely using any new product. II