Zinc for Acne: Benefits and How to Use

Acne is stubborn! It is sometimes resistant to the best ingredients that can help you get rid of acne. If your continuous efforts to fight acne are unsuccessful, you can try zinc for acne. Among the array of options, zinc has emerged as a promising element in the quest for acne-free skin. Zinc is one of the many essential nutrients your body needs and it fights harmful cells by protecting your immune system.

Zinc has skin-enhancing benefits that can help you get rid of acne and give you smooth skin, says dermatologist and dermato-surgeon Dr. Rinki Kapoor.

What are the benefits of zinc for acne?

1. Has anti-inflammatory properties

Did you know that inflammation is a major cause of acne? Inflammation contributes to the development and exacerbation of acne lesions. Zinc is rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which can help you treat acne. It helps reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne, promoting a better complexion, says Dr. Kapoor.

2. Regulates sebum production

Acne is a condition of oil glands (sebaceous glands) and hair follicles. Sebum or oil is secreted by these glands to maintain the skin’s moisture. Adding zinc to your skin care routine can help control sebum production and prevent excessive oiliness, which can lead to acne breakouts. This regulatory function helps maintain a more balanced and acne-resistant skin environment.

Also read

3. Rich in antioxidants

Zinc acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Free radicals damage skin cells, contributing to the inflammatory processes associated with acne. By neutralizing free radicals, zinc supports a healthy skin environment and helps prevent acne flare-ups, the expert says.

Also Read: Add these antioxidant-rich foods to your diet for healthy skin

4. Heals wounds and reduces acne

Zinc is known for its wound-healing properties. Zinc facilitates faster healing and reduces the likelihood of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scarring, says Dr. Kapoor. It promotes a smooth complexion and reduces the effect of acne on the skin.

5. Balances your hormones

Hormonal fluctuations, especially increased androgen levels, often contribute to the development of acne. Zinc plays a role in regulating hormonal balance, effectively addressing one of the underlying factors in hormonal acne. It is a valuable ingredient for people who are facing acne related to hormonal imbalance.

6. Strengthens immunity

A healthy immune system not only promotes a healthy body but also healthy skin and zinc helps boost immunity. Zinc has properties that keep the body free from infections and contribute to a healthy complexion. A healthy immune system helps prevent and manage acne breakouts.

How to use zinc for acne?

Now that you know zinc is an effective ingredient that can help you fight acne, let’s see how you can use it as suggested by Dr. Kapoor.

1. Oral supplements

One of the most common ways to use zinc to treat acne is by taking oral supplements that help address systemic factors that contribute to acne.

2. Topical zinc

You can apply zinc formulations such as zinc oxide or zinc pyrithione directly to the skin. Zinc oxide has soothing properties and helps reduce redness and inflammation associated with acne. These formulations are commonly found in sunscreens and over-the-counter creams, experts recommend.

3. With other skin care ingredients

Another effective way to use zinc to get rid of acne is to enhance its effectiveness by using it with other acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide.

4. Food sources

You can include zinc-rich foods in your diet, such as nuts, seeds, and whole grains, which contribute to overall skin health.

Things to remember

It’s a good idea to do a patch test before applying any new zinc-containing products to your face. This will help you check if you are prone to any reactions or allergies. This will help ensure that the product is suitable for your skin.

Although zinc is beneficial for managing acne, its use needs to be approached with caution. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor before making any changes to your skin care routine.