Zinc (Topical)

Zinc in skincare primarily appears as zinc oxide (in sunscreen) or zinc acetate/pyrithione/gluconate (in acne and anti-dandruff products). As an acne treatment, zinc reduces sebum production, inhibits Cutibacterium acnes colonisation, and has direct anti-inflammatory activity. Human RCTs confirm efficacy for mild-to-moderate inflammatory acne; zinc sulfate oral supplementation has stronger evidence but GI side effects limit use. Topical zinc is less effective than benzoyl peroxide or topical antibiotics but a useful adjunct, particularly for those unable to tolerate stronger actives. Zinc pyrithione (at 1–2%) is FDA-approved for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Zinc oxide is also a physical UV filter with broad-spectrum coverage.