Why Zinc Should Be Part of Your Skin Care Regimen
Zinc is an essential element for many biological processes and is present within every cell in your body. It plays an important role in supporting immune system function, digestion, protein synthesis, and the healing process. But daily intake is important because it is not stored by the body for long periods of time, and many people suffer from zinc deficiency. Common signs of zinc deficiency include skin conditions such as acne, rashes, and lesions. Zinc supplements are readily available in tablet form, and topical zinc remedies are commonly used for various minor skin irritations.
Here are some of the ways that zinc can benefit your skin:
- UV protection: One important use for zinc is to protect skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Many broad-spectrum sunscreens include zinc oxide among the active ingredients. Unlike other ingredients which absorb into the skin and filter out the sun’s radiation, zinc oxide acts as a shield and prevents UV rays from penetrating the skin altogether. And because it is not absorbed deeply, zinc oxide is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
- Healing aid: Zinc helps to protect against infection and reduce inflammation, making it effective in treating minor wounds and skin irritations. And by helping to produce new cells, zinc can help to speed the healing process. Even healthy skin can benefit from zinc’s rejuvenating ability.
- Acne treatment: Both oral and topical zinc treatments are effective at boosting immune function and reducing inflammation and scarring due to acne. And because zinc plays a role in cell production and turnover, it can help to reduce the amount of natural oil produced by the skin and prevent the clogged pores that lead to acne in the first place.
- Scalp treatment: Zinc is an effective treatment for dandruff and certain fungal infections of the scalp. Many dandruff shampoos contain zinc pyrithione as an active ingredient to prevent fungal growth and remove excess skin cells.
- Skin rejuvenation: While not an antioxidant like vitamins C and E, zinc nevertheless functions to lessen the formation of damaging free radicals and protect the skin’s lipids and fibroblasts – the cells that make collagen – from the damaging effects of UV radiation and other environmental hazards.
For those who may be suffering from a zinc deficiency, there are dietary adjustments that can help to ensure proper intake, and there are widely available supplements as well. Shellfish, red meat, and legumes (such as chickpeas or beans) are all rich in zinc. Many cereals and other convenient ready-made foods also have healthy zinc levels. To ensure the proper dose without dietary adjustments, supplements can be found in most health foods stores. Topical creams containing zinc are best for treating acne and other skin conditions.
Independent Chemical is the only US distributor to offer Oligoidyne Zn by Vevy Europe. This specially formulated skin product contains zinc aspartate, which is zinc bound to the aspartate amino acid. Zinc aspartate can help to boost immune function and aid in the synthesis of skin proteins, amino acids, and ribonucleic acids. It can be used to treat oily and acne prone skin. And it intervenes in melanin synthesis giving it tan enhancing capacity. This is just one example of the many unique cosmetics and personal care products that we offer. Contact us today to learn more.