Zinc Oxide for Skin Care, the Secret to Healthy and Protected Skin

Zinc oxide for skin care can be found in various cosmetic and medical products. This white, powdery mineral has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular ingredient in sunscreens.

Benefits of Zinc Oxide for Skin Care and the Facial Area

To date, no research has shown any adverse effects from zinc oxide particles, especially the nano-sized material often found in cosmetics or sunscreens. In fact, zinc oxide can actually provide various benefits, as follows:

1. Protects Skin from UV

Actually, there are two types of sunscreen protection: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens absorb sunlight to protect the skin. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide create a physical barrier that reflects UV rays from the skin’s surface.

When UV rays penetrate the skin and damage tissue, the aging process is accelerated. In fact, excessive exposure can increase the risk of all types of skin cancer.

Based on this, sunscreen containing zinc oxide can be the right solution, even for children and adults with sensitive skin. 

This is because the zinc oxide content in sunscreen products can minimize the risk of allergic reactions or other skin irritations. Once applied, sunscreen will work effectively to optimally protect the skin.

2. Treating Burns and Rashes

Zinc oxide for skin care can protect and soothe the skin in various ways. For example, topical creams can treat or prevent minor skin irritations, including burns and scrapes.

Zinc oxide itself is the main ingredient in over-the-counter diaper rash creams. A 5% zinc oxide formulation in the product can be effective and starts working within 12 hours.

In fact, a review of studies found that zinc oxide ointment can provide a physical barrier against water absorption. The ingredient can also reduce bacterial infections in mild dermatitis caused by wet diapers.

3. Treating Dark Spots

Zinc oxide is a common ingredient often found in sunscreens. This ingredient can be useful for treating melasma, a skin condition that causes brown spots on the face.

One study found that melasma sufferers reported a reduction in symptom severity after three months of treatment. This was achieved by regularly using a product containing 10% topical zinc sulfate.

When used daily, sunscreen with zinc oxide SPF 30 or higher can help prevent further skin darkening. As a general rule, consumers should apply this sunscreen to all parts of the body frequently exposed to the sun.

Zinc oxide for skin care offers many advantages worth considering. In fact, this ingredient can also be a fairly effective acne treatment, reducing redness, swelling, and other bacteria associated with acne.