We explored how zinc affects acne through a systematic review and meta-analysis that looked at two main questions. First, we wanted to know if there are differences in zinc levels between people with acne and those without. Second, we examined how effective zinc treatments are for managing acne.
Our findings showed that individuals with acne had noticeably lower serum zinc levels compared to those in the control group. Furthermore, when we looked at treatments, those who received zinc showed a significant reduction in their inflammatory papule count—a common symptom of acne. Importantly, we noted that side effects from zinc supplementation were similar to those seen in other treatments, suggesting that zinc is safe to use.
Overall, acne patients appear to benefit from improved zinc levels, especially when zinc is used either on its own or alongside other acne treatments. This gives hope for those looking for effective ways to tackle acne issues!
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9
Zinc shows promise against acne
An Open-label Study Comparing Oral Zinc to Lymecycline in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris.
We aimed to explore how effective zinc sulphate is in treating mild to moderate acne compared to the well-known antibiotic lymecycline. In our study, we involved 100 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either zinc sulphate or lymecycline.
To measure the effectiveness of the treatments, we used the Global Acne Grading System and a special questionnaire focused on acne's impact on quality of life. After four and twelve weeks of treatment, we found that both treatments significantly reduced acne severity.
However, the results showed something interesting. The patients who took zinc sulphate reported greater improvements in their quality of life than those on lymecycline. This indicates that zinc not only helps with acne but may also lead to a better overall experience during treatment.
Our findings suggest that zinc sulphate could be a compelling alternative to lymecycline, providing similar clinical benefits without the risk of antibiotic resistance associated with long-term antibiotic use.
Read More
9
Zinc compounds as acne treatment
Zinc(II) Complexes of Amino Acids as New Active Ingredients for Anti-Acne Dermatological Preparations.
We examined the potential of zinc compounds, particularly zinc-amino acid complexes, to effectively treat acne. This study focused on how these zinc formulations could not only help with acne but also ensure safety for the skin.
Initially, we checked the cytotoxicity of the zinc complexes on human skin cells, demonstrating their safety. We then evaluated their antibacterial properties, which are crucial for combating acne-causing bacteria. After finding promising results, we selected zinc complexes with glycine and histidine to create unique gel formulations.
The next steps involved thorough testing of these gel preparations for stability, purity, and tolerability. We confirmed that they maintained their quality over time, showed no irritation or allergic reactions in a patch test with 25 volunteers, and exhibited high microbiological purity.
Ultimately, our findings suggest that these zinc-based gels can be a valuable topical option for acne treatment due to their strong antibacterial performance and minimal toxicity to skin cells. Our dermatological formulations appear safe and effective, contributing positively to acne management.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective acne treatment
Excellent! This product significantly helped me eliminate acne and minor rashes. I highly recommend it to anyone facing a similar issue. I used it for a month, and if my review was helpful, please give it a like!
Read More
7.5
Visible acne reduction
In the form of lollipops, I ordered them for my daughter, who is beginning to have a teenage rash and is quite self-conscious about it. The orange candies are easy to consume, akin to sweets, but beneficial. After a month, the results were evident; my daughter's acne has decreased, and her skin is gradually recovering, with hardly any new spots appearing. Additionally, zinc is beneficial for bolstering the immune system.
Read More
6
Faster acne recovery
They taste like candy! I was surprised by how small they are, but I like it; the lozenges are easy to take. The flavour is delightfully citrusy, almost like sweets, offering a pleasant change from large tablets. I use these when I have acne to expedite my recovery. Zinc is fantastic for supporting the immune system, so I share some with my family as well. The brand always presents good packaging. Despite being pricier, I believe their products are of good quality, making them worth the investment over cheaper alternatives.
We investigated the effectiveness of a novel microneedle patch designed for acne treatment, which incorporates zinc-based nanoparticles. This patch combines sodium hyaluronate with zinc porphyrin-based metal-organic frameworks and zinc oxide. By using ultrasound to release activated oxygen, we observed a remarkable antibacterial efficiency, achieving a 99.73% reduction in acne-causing bacteria within just 15 minutes.
Zinc plays a crucial role in this innovative approach. Not only does it help eliminate harmful bacteria, but it also appears to enhance skin health. The presence of zinc ions promotes the up-regulation of genes associated with DNA replication, which supports the growth of fibroblasts. This is a vital process for skin repair and rejuvenation, showing that zinc can potentially contribute to both the treatment and recovery of acne-affected skin.
Overall, our findings suggest that this microneedle patch, which utilizes zinc and ultrasound-responsive technology, represents a promising strategy for effectively managing acne without relying on traditional antibiotics.
We investigated how zinc treatment affects acne, particularly focusing on its potential benefits for those suffering from acne rosacea. The study observed that zinc sulfate solution at a concentration of 5% played a notable role in reducing the severity of acne rosacea symptoms.
Findings indicated that around 40% to 60% of patients experienced a moderate to good response after using zinc. This suggests that zinc could be helpful for individuals looking for alternatives or supplements in their acne treatment regimen.
However, it's important to acknowledge that while zinc showed positive results, the isolated effect of zinc alone cannot be fully determined. It might have worked in conjunction with other treatment factors, which complicates our understanding of its effectiveness.
Therefore, we emphasize the need for further studies to clarify exactly how zinc contributes to acne treatment outcomes and to evaluate its role alongside other therapies.
Read More
9
Zinc oxide nanoparticles combat acne
Development and Evaluation of Topical Zinc Oxide Nanogels Formulation Using and Its Effect on Acne Vulgaris.
We assessed the potential of zinc oxide nanoparticles in combating acne. Using biogenically synthesized zinc oxide, we mixed it with a polymer to create a topical nanogel aimed at treating acne. Through rigorous testing against acne-causing bacteria, we observed that these biogenic nanoparticles showed a promising antibacterial effect, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.
Notably, the particle size of our biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles measured around 20 nm, indicating a high degree of purity. When pitted against chemogenic counterparts, the biogenic version proved to be more effective. This suggests that zinc oxide, especially when produced biogenically, could be a valuable addition to skincare products targeting acne.
Moreover, the study highlights the environment-friendly aspect of using biogenic zinc oxide in skincare formulations, making it a preferable choice for those concerned about sustainability. Our findings suggest that these hybrid nanogels could serve as an effective solution against skin infections associated with acne, adding to their appeal in modern skincare.
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9
Zinc gel shows promise for acne
Assessment of the Benefit of a Deep Cleansing Gel Containing Salicylic Acid 2%, Zinc Gluconate 0.2% and Lipohydroxy Acids 0.05% in Patients with Mild to Moderate Truncal Acne: Results from an Exploratory Study.
We wanted to find out how effective a cleansing gel containing salicylic acid, zinc gluconate, and lipohydroxy acids is for treating truncal acne. Conducted over 84 days, our study included 51 individuals with mild to moderate acne, and we tracked various skin conditions like the number of acne lesions and the overall skin barrier health.
After regular use of the gel, we observed a significant reduction in total acne lesions—over half were improved by the end of the study. While non-inflammatory lesions saw a drop of 64% and inflammatory lesions were reduced by nearly 30%, the key point is that zinc gluconate was part of a trio of ingredients, making it challenging to pinpoint its specific contribution.
When we considered skin barrier function, a notable improvement was also measured—21.26% better at Day 84. Patients reported no significant side effects or intolerances, suggesting that the ingredients within the gel, including zinc, were well tolerated.
Overall, the evidence hints at zinc's potential benefits as part of a combination treatment against acne. But since it was used together with other active ingredients, we can't solely credit zinc for the results observed.
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9
Zinc shows promise against acne
An Open-label Study Comparing Oral Zinc to Lymecycline in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris.
We aimed to explore how effective zinc sulphate is in treating mild to moderate acne compared to the well-known antibiotic lymecycline. In our study, we involved 100 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either zinc sulphate or lymecycline.
To measure the effectiveness of the treatments, we used the Global Acne Grading System and a special questionnaire focused on acne's impact on quality of life. After four and twelve weeks of treatment, we found that both treatments significantly reduced acne severity.
However, the results showed something interesting. The patients who took zinc sulphate reported greater improvements in their quality of life than those on lymecycline. This indicates that zinc not only helps with acne but may also lead to a better overall experience during treatment.
Our findings suggest that zinc sulphate could be a compelling alternative to lymecycline, providing similar clinical benefits without the risk of antibiotic resistance associated with long-term antibiotic use.
Excellent! This product significantly helped me eliminate acne and minor rashes. I highly recommend it to anyone facing a similar issue. I used it for a month, and if my review was helpful, please give it a like!
Read More
7.5
Visible acne reduction
In the form of lollipops, I ordered them for my daughter, who is beginning to have a teenage rash and is quite self-conscious about it. The orange candies are easy to consume, akin to sweets, but beneficial. After a month, the results were evident; my daughter's acne has decreased, and her skin is gradually recovering, with hardly any new spots appearing. Additionally, zinc is beneficial for bolstering the immune system.
Read More
6
Faster acne recovery
They taste like candy! I was surprised by how small they are, but I like it; the lozenges are easy to take. The flavour is delightfully citrusy, almost like sweets, offering a pleasant change from large tablets. I use these when I have acne to expedite my recovery. Zinc is fantastic for supporting the immune system, so I share some with my family as well. The brand always presents good packaging. Despite being pricier, I believe their products are of good quality, making them worth the investment over cheaper alternatives.
Read More
6
Prevention of acne
The quality is good, and the taste is pleasing; the vitamins are small in size. I purchased this on my beautician's advice for acne prevention. Taken alongside treatment and additional vitamins, the results have been positive.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, though it's especially prevalent among teenagers and young adults. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts. The main factors contributing to acne include excess oil production, hormonal changes, and the presence of bacteria on the skin. Acne can manifest in various forms, from mild cases with just a few breakouts to more severe forms that can cause significant inflammation and scarring.
Treatment for acne varies depending on its severity and can range from over-the-counter topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to prescription medications including retinoids and antibiotics. Lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a balanced diet and proper skin hygiene, may also contribute to managing and reducing breakouts. Despite being a common skin issue, the psychological impact of acne should not be underestimated, as it can affect self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Zinc is a versatile metal known for its various applications in industry and health. It is a bluish-white metallic element represented by the symbol Zn and atomic number 30 on the periodic table. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel to prevent rusting, in the manufacturing of alloys, and as a component in batteries. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in biological processes, making it an essential trace element in the human diet. It is involved in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Zinc has been recognized for its potential benefits in managing acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce oil production in the skin. Several studies suggest that zinc supplements may help decrease the severity of acne lesions and improve overall skin health. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in the immune system, which can be beneficial in fighting off the bacteria that contribute to acne breakouts. For individuals struggling with moderate acne, opting for zinc supplements or using topical treatments containing zinc might offer some relief and improvement.
That said, while zinc can assist in managing acne, it is not a standalone solution, and results can vary. It’s important to combine any zinc treatment with a comprehensive skincare routine tailored to your skin type and acne severity. Consulting a dermatologist before starting any new supplement or treatment is wise, as they can offer personalized advice and the most effective treatment options for your specific situation.
According to user reviews, most individuals report noticing results in around one month of consistent use of the supplement for acne. One user mentioned, "I used it for a month, and..." highlighting that significant improvement was seen in acne and minor rashes after this period Read Review. Another user, whose daughter began taking the supplement, noted that, "after a month, the results were evident; my daughter's acne has decreased..." reinforcing that a month appears to be a common timeframe for visible changes Read Review.
While individual results can vary, and some users might see benefits sooner or later than one month, the consensus from these reviews suggests that you may want to give the supplement at least this amount of time before assessing its effectiveness. Additionally, combining the supplement with other treatments may yield better results, as noted by a separate user who reported positive outcomes alongside other vitamins Read Review.
Scientific research suggests that zinc may hold promise as a treatment for acne. Multiple studies have explored the role of zinc in managing acne, highlighting its potential anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce acne lesions. For instance, a study found that high-dose zinc treatment significantly reduced inflammation linked to acne when tested in a mouse model, suggesting its therapeutic potential [1]. Another study indicated that patients using zinc sulfate experienced a moderate to good response in reducing acne symptoms [2].
However, the effectiveness of zinc is not uniformly conclusive, as many studies point to the need for further research to isolate its direct impact from other treatments and factors. Some evidence indicates that while zinc supplementation can enhance overall skin health and support existing treatments like isotretinoin, its independent efficacy remains ambiguous [3]. Nonetheless, growing evidence positions zinc as a valuable consideration in acne management, potentially offering a useful addition to comprehensive treatment plans aimed at mitigating this complex skin condition [1].
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in their skin conditions, particularly acne and minor rashes, after consistent use of the supplement for about a month. One user enthusiastically stated, "This product significantly helped me eliminate acne and minor rashes" Read Review. Another user shared their experience with their daughter, observing that after a month, "my daughter's acne has decreased, and her skin is gradually recovering" Read Review.
In addition to direct benefits for acne, users also mentioned the supplement's palatable format, which they described as tasting like candy, making it easy to incorporate into their daily routine. A user noted using the lozenges to "expedite my recovery" from breakouts, highlighting that aside from acne control, the supplement may offer additional immune support due to its zinc content Read Review. However, it's essential to keep in mind that individual results can vary, and some may find better outcomes when taken alongside other treatments or vitamins Read Review.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining this supplement with other treatments for managing acne. One reviewer shared that they purchased the supplement on their beautician's advice specifically for acne prevention. They noted, "Taken alongside treatment and additional vitamins, the results have been positive," suggesting that a multi-faceted approach can enhance the effectiveness of the supplement Read Review.
Additionally, another user mentioned taking the supplement to "expedite my recovery" from breakouts, indicating that combining it with other strategies, including sharing it with family for immune support, may yield better results Read Review. Given the benefits reported by users when integrating this supplement into a broader skincare regimen, it seems that those seeking to tackle acne might find value in pairing it with other vitamins or treatment strategies for optimal outcomes.
Based on current research, the optimal dose of zinc for treating acne appears to be in the higher range, particularly in terms of dietary supplementation. One study emphasized that high doses of dietary zinc showed promising results in reducing inflammation associated with acne, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment avenue for those struggling with this condition [1]. While specific dosages were not uniformly specified across all studies, it's inferred that higher concentrations of zinc, such as those found in supplements or topical formulations, could be beneficial based on the correlation between zinc levels and acne severity.
Moreover, research also noted that about 5% zinc sulfate solution had a significant impact on reducing acne rosacea symptoms, showcasing that even lower concentrations can yield positive results in a clinical setting [2]. Overall, while optimal dosages may vary depending on individual needs, combining high-dose zinc treatment with existing acne therapies appears to present a compelling option for improving skin health, but careful monitoring for side effects is advisable due to varying responses in individuals [1].
9
Effective acne treatment
Excellent! This product significantly helped me eliminate acne and minor rashes. I highly recommend it to anyone facing a similar issue. I used it for a month, and if my review was helpful, please give it a like!
7.5
Visible acne reduction
In the form of lollipops, I ordered them for my daughter, who is beginning to have a teenage rash and is quite self-conscious about it. The orange candies are easy to consume, akin to sweets, but beneficial. After a month, the results were evident; my daughter's acne has decreased, and her skin is gradually recovering, with hardly any new spots appearing. Additionally, zinc is beneficial for bolstering the immune system.
6
Prevention of acne
The quality is good, and the taste is pleasing; the vitamins are small in size. I purchased this on my beautician's advice for acne prevention. Taken alongside treatment and additional vitamins, the results have been positive.
6
Faster acne recovery
They taste like candy! I was surprised by how small they are, but I like it; the lozenges are easy to take. The flavour is delightfully citrusy, almost like sweets, offering a pleasant change from large tablets. I use these when I have acne to expedite my recovery. Zinc is fantastic for supporting the immune system, so I share some with my family as well. The brand always presents good packaging. Despite being pricier, I believe their products are of good quality, making them worth the investment over cheaper alternatives.
8
Zinc treatment shows promise for acne
Comparative transcriptome analysis of acne vulgaris, rosacea, and hidradenitis suppurativa supports high-dose dietary zinc as a therapeutic agent.
We explored how zinc treatment may help with inflammatory skin conditions like acne vulgaris, rosacea, and hidradenitis suppurativa. These conditions can appear quite similar, which makes diagnosing them a bit tricky. By examining gene expression data across these three disorders, we noticed that certain zinc-binding proteins were consistently elevated in all cases.
Our hypothesis centers around these proteins possibly sequestering zinc, which could promote inflammation due to local zinc deficiency. To investigate this further, we identified high-dose dietary zinc as a potential therapeutic option. This was tested and validated in an acne mouse model, showing promising results for its effectiveness in reducing the inflammation associated with acne.
Although the study specifically highlighted the isolated effect of zinc, it strongly suggests that incorporating high doses of dietary zinc might offer a new avenue for treatment. This could be an encouraging option for those struggling with acne, pointing to a novel approach grounded in scientific findings.
We investigated how zinc treatment affects acne, particularly focusing on its potential benefits for those suffering from acne rosacea. The study observed that zinc sulfate solution at a concentration of 5% played a notable role in reducing the severity of acne rosacea symptoms.
Findings indicated that around 40% to 60% of patients experienced a moderate to good response after using zinc. This suggests that zinc could be helpful for individuals looking for alternatives or supplements in their acne treatment regimen.
However, it's important to acknowledge that while zinc showed positive results, the isolated effect of zinc alone cannot be fully determined. It might have worked in conjunction with other treatment factors, which complicates our understanding of its effectiveness.
Therefore, we emphasize the need for further studies to clarify exactly how zinc contributes to acne treatment outcomes and to evaluate its role alongside other therapies.
8
Zinc levels increased during treatment
Analysis of Isotretinoin-Induced Alterations in the Levels of Plasma Trace Elements: Investigation of the Relationship Between Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, and Treatment-Related Side Effects.
We observed the effects of isotretinoin on patients with acne vulgaris, particularly focusing on how zinc interacts with this treatment. During the study, plasma samples were collected from 35 participants before and after three months of isotretinoin therapy.
Interestingly, we found that zinc levels increased significantly after treatment, especially in male patients. This increase suggests that zinc may play a supportive role in managing acne alongside isotretinoin. However, it's important to note that the study did not isolate zinc's effects as a treatment on its own, which leaves some questions about its direct effectiveness for acne alone.
Additionally, we noted changes in other trace elements like phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. These changes could indicate potential impacts on kidney function, which highlights the need for careful monitoring during isotretinoin treatment. Regardless of the promising rise in zinc levels, the overall effectiveness of zinc as a standalone treatment for acne remains unclear.
References
Li L, Hajam I, McGee JS, Tang Z, Zhang Y, et al. Comparative transcriptome analysis of acne vulgaris, rosacea, and hidradenitis suppurativa supports high-dose dietary zinc as a therapeutic agent. Exp Dermatol. 2024;33:e15145. doi:10.1111/exd.15145
Algarin YA, Pulumati A, Jaalouk D, Tan J, Nouri K. The role of vitamins and nutrients in rosacea. Arch Dermatol Res. 2024;316:142. doi:10.1007/s00403-024-02895-4
Akman TC, Yazici M, Atila A, Mertoglu C. Analysis of Isotretinoin-Induced Alterations in the Levels of Plasma Trace Elements: Investigation of the Relationship Between Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, and Treatment-Related Side Effects. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2024;202:4858. doi:10.1007/s12011-023-04053-9
Li L, Hajam I, McGee JS, Tang Z, Zhang Y, et al. Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Acne vulgaris, Rosacea, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa Supports High Dose Dietary Zinc as a Therapeutic Agent. medRxiv. 2023. doi:10.1101/2023.11.28.23299152
Shields A, Ly S, Wafae B, Chang YF, Manjaly P, et al. Safety and Effectiveness of Oral Nutraceuticals for Treating Acne: A Systematic Review. JAMA Dermatol. 2023;159:1373. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2023.3949
Tan YY, Wong LS, Nyam KL, Wittayanarakul K, Zawawi NA, et al. Development and Evaluation of Topical Zinc Oxide Nanogels Formulation Using and Its Effect on Acne Vulgaris. Molecules. 2023;28. doi:10.3390/molecules28196749
Xiang Y, Lu J, Mao C, Zhu Y, Wang C, et al. Ultrasound-triggered interfacial engineering-based microneedle for bacterial infection acne treatment. Sci Adv. 2023;9:eadf0854. doi:10.1126/sciadv.adf0854
Towersey L, Correia P, Fajgenbaum Feiges M, Euzébio Gonçalves Junior J, Sant'Anna B, et al. Assessment of the Benefit of a Deep Cleansing Gel Containing Salicylic Acid 2%, Zinc Gluconate 0.2% and Lipohydroxy Acids 0.05% in Patients with Mild to Moderate Truncal Acne: Results from an Exploratory Study. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2023;16:119. doi:10.2147/CCID.S394123
Salah E. Oral Zinc as a Novel Adjuvant and Sparing Therapy for Systemic Isotretinoin in Acne Vulgaris: A Preliminary Comparative Study. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022;15:58.
Naji HH, Al-Azawi RSA, Ibrahim NJ, Kzar HH. Investigation of the Role of Zn/Cu Index and its Correlation with Physiological Activity of SOD 1 and GRx in Males with Acne Vulgaris. Arch Razi Inst. 2022;77:623. doi:10.22092/ARI.2021.356857.1928
Searle T, Ali FR, Al-Niaimi F. Zinc in dermatology. J Dermatolog Treat. 2022;33:2455. doi:10.1080/09546634.2022.2062282
Poizeau F, Plantier F, Bell H, Moyal-Barracco M. Vulvar Fordyce adenitis: A cohort of 45 women. Ann Dermatol Venereol. 2021;148:221. doi:10.1016/j.annder.2021.04.001
Tolino E, Skroza N, Mambrin A, Proietti I, Bernardini N, et al. An Open-label Study Comparing Oral Zinc to Lymecycline in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14:56.
Maillard A, Pastor D, Merat R. Anti-PD-1-Induced Hidradenitis Suppurativa. Dermatopathology (Basel). 2021;8:37. doi:10.3390/dermatopathology8010007
Abendrot M, Płuciennik E, Felczak A, Zawadzka K, Piątczak E, et al. Zinc(II) Complexes of Amino Acids as New Active Ingredients for Anti-Acne Dermatological Preparations. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22. doi:10.3390/ijms22041641
Yee BE, Richards P, Sui JY, Marsch AF. Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dermatol Ther. 2020;33:e14252. doi:10.1111/dth.14252