Zinc

Zinc at a Glance

• Essential nutrient for humans
• Found naturally in many foods
• Well known for its soothing properties
• Component of zinc oxide

Zinc Description

Zinc is a chemical element and mineral. It’s an essential nutrient for humans, meaning that we need to ingest it since it is not produced by the body. Natural sources of zinc include oysters, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

Studies find that zinc, in addition to having antioxidant properties that fight pro-aging free-radical damage, is well-known for its soothing abilities, even on compromised skin. In fact, it is used in medical settings for this purpose.

Zinc is also a component of many organic compounds, perhaps most famously zinc oxide, a broad-spectrum mineral UV filter used in many commercial sunscreens. Zinc oxide is also an FDA-approved skin protectant.

Note: Although pure zinc can be used in cosmetics and its small molecular weight makes it bioavailable, most zinc-containing cosmetics use various forms of this mineral in concentrations that align with formulary goals and/or anticipated benefits, such as sun protection.

Zinc References