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!
Read More
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
Acne improvement
651 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamin, it helped combat acne. After starting the supplement, my skin cleared up significantly. My hair has also become shinier and thicker.
Read More
9
Acne reduction
111 people found this helpful
My nephew's teenage acne cleared up after taking zinc.
Read More
9
Skin improvement
5 people found this helpful
I ordered zinc for my daughter, who has acne on her face. Combined with a facial tonic, her skin improved remarkably. I recommend it.
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.
Read More
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 vitamin, it helped combat acne. After starting the supplement, my skin cleared up significantly. My hair has also become shinier and thicker.
Read More
9
Acne reduction
111 people found this helpful
My nephew's teenage acne cleared up after taking zinc.
Read More
9
Skin improvement
5 people found this helpful
I ordered zinc for my daughter, who has acne on her face. Combined with a facial tonic, her skin improved remarkably. I recommend it.
Read More
9
Immunity support
2 people found this helpful
For ARVI, zinc is vital! It enhances the body's antiviral defence. Long-term use can lead to copper deficiency, so it should be taken in courses. Zinc reduces the severity of colds and helps with acne as well.
Read More
9
Reduced acne
1 people found this helpful
The pimples have shrunk after a week of use, with no redness. I will continue using it.
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.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from zinc supplements for acne can vary. Some users report noticeable improvements as quickly as one week, with one review specifying that pimples shrank and redness reduced after just seven days of use Read Review. Others mention more significant changes over a two-week period, stating that their acne improved markedly during that time frame Read Review.
Overall, reports indicate that users generally begin to see positive effects within a couple of weeks, while some achieve clearer skin even sooner. It appears that consistency in taking the supplement is key, as many users also emphasize the importance of ongoing use to maintain the benefits for their skin Read Review. However, individual results can vary widely, and some users may take longer to see improvements, highlighting the need for a personalized approach in managing acne with dietary supplements.
Recent research suggests that zinc supplementation may offer a promising avenue for improving acne symptoms. A study highlighted that high doses of dietary zinc significantly reduced inflammation associated with acne in an animal model [1]. Another investigation noted that approximately 40% to 60% of participants with acne rosacea showed moderate to significant improvement after using a zinc sulfate solution [2]. Additionally, a systematic review found a notable association between low serum zinc levels in acne patients compared to those without acne, indicating that improving zinc levels could be beneficial [16].
However, while evidence points towards zinc's potential role in acne treatment, results have often been mixed, and its isolated effectiveness remains unclear [1]. Many studies indicate that zinc may be most effective when used alongside other treatments rather than as a standalone solution, as factors such as gastrointestinal side effects and interaction with other therapies complicate outcomes [5]. More comprehensive and well-structured trials are essential to fully understand how zinc might fit into an overall acne treatment regimen, making it crucial for patients to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any new supplements.
Users have reported varying degrees of improvement in their acne symptoms after taking zinc supplements, with many expressing significantly enhanced skin clarity. For instance, one user noticed that their skin cleared up considerably after starting the supplement, in addition to experiencing shinier and thicker hair Read Review. Another user relayed that their nephew's teenage acne improved notably after incorporating zinc into his routine. Several other reviews highlight marked improvements, such as a user mentioning that their acne dissipated after two weeks while another credited zinc for resolving back acne Read Review.
Beyond clearance of existing acne, users have also reported overall skin health benefits, including reduced oiliness and fewer breakouts as part of comprehensive regimens Read Review. However, it is essential to note that individual responses can vary, as some users experienced delayed improvements or had inconsistent results. For example, one reviewer mentioned that while they initially faced worsening symptoms, their acne eventually cleared, suggesting that the supplement may take time to show benefits for some individuals Read Review. Overall, the anecdotal evidence points to zinc being a potentially effective supplement for managing acne, although results may differ widely among users.
Users have reported positive experiences when combining zinc supplements with other supplements for acne management. For instance, one user mentioned seeing considerable improvement in their skin after taking zinc along with Omega-3 and Vitamin E Read Review. Another reviewer noted that they took zinc alongside vitamin C, resulting in benefits not only for their immune system but also for their acne, particularly after a month of use Read Review. These combinations seem to enhance the overall effectiveness of the zinc in addressing acne symptoms, showcasing how multi-supplement regimes could potentially yield better skin results.
Additionally, other users have also emphasized that while zinc alone offers noticeable improvements in acne symptoms, dietary synergy with other supplements may optimize outcomes. One review reported recommending zinc combined with a facial tonic, leading to remarkable skin improvement Read Review. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that responses to supplement combinations can vary widely across individuals, and some may experience different results. Nonetheless, the shared insights highlight the potential benefits of leveraging a multi-faceted supplementation approach for managing acne effectively.
According to recent research, the optimal dose of zinc for treating acne is not definitively established, but high doses appear to be beneficial. A study exploring high-dose dietary zinc indicated that it could effectively reduce inflammation associated with acne in an animal model [1]. Moreover, findings from another study suggested that zinc supplementation could help individuals with acne rosacea, particularly at a concentration of 5%, where about 40% to 60% of patients reported moderate to good responses [2]. This suggests that while there is a range of doses that may be effective, higher doses tend to yield better results.
It's important to note that although these studies show promise, the isolated effects of zinc on acne treatment require further investigation. Since zinc is often combined with other treatments, its role as a standalone solution remains somewhat ambiguous [5]. Additionally, patients have reported gastrointestinal side effects with zinc therapy, indicating that dosages should be approached cautiously [5]. Overall, while higher doses of zinc may improve outcomes for acne sufferers, consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations is advisable.
9
Reduced acne
1 people found this helpful
The pimples have shrunk after a week of use, with no redness. I will continue using it.
9
Skin cleansing effects
This is a great product that works. I've used it twice for myself and my son, both of us having problematic skin. While taking zinc, our skin has cleared, there’s much less acne, and the oily sheen has disappeared. Plus, it's more affordable than pharmacy options.
9
Acne improvement
651 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamin, it helped combat acne. After starting the supplement, my skin cleared up significantly. My hair has also become shinier and thicker.
9
Improved acne control
I purchased this complex to help recover from Covid, and I believe it helped my sense of smell return to normal. Most importantly, the acne on my back has not returned, which I attribute to taking zinc.
7.5
Acne disappearance
44 people found this helpful
I experienced various symptoms, including subcutaneous acne. After trying zinc internally as a supplement, my legs stopped sweating, digestion improved, and hair loss decreased. While acne worsened initially, it eventually cleared up. I recommend it.
7.5
Enhanced immunity
1 people found this helpful
The ingredients include good quality zinc. It boosted my immune system, and after a course with Omega Three and Vitamin E, my acne improved considerably.
7.5
Tested effectiveness
At the first sign of a cold, I take zinc and vitamin C. It works and also helps with my acne when taken for a month.
9
Skin improvement
5 people found this helpful
I ordered zinc for my daughter, who has acne on her face. Combined with a facial tonic, her skin improved remarkably. I recommend it.
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 effective for acne treatment
Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
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!
7
Zinc's role in acne unclear
Safety and Effectiveness of Oral Nutraceuticals for Treating Acne: A Systematic Review.
We delved into the effectiveness of oral zinc treatment for acne through a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. The study drew from numerous databases to pinpoint research that examined how zinc—and other nutraceuticals—could potentially alleviate acne symptoms.
Among the 42 studies reviewed, several demonstrated a possible benefit from various vitamins and botanicals, including zinc. Specifically, while zinc therapy was included, it was noted that gastrointestinal side effects were associated with it, which might deter some users. Overall, zinc's effectiveness in reducing acne lesions was not conclusively separated from other treatments, as the results showed mixed findings across different studies.
Therefore, while zinc may play a role in improving acne symptoms, it's essential for users to be aware of the potential adverse effects and the treatment's variability in individual responses. More extensive and well-structured trials are likely needed to clarify zinc's precise impact in treating acne.
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