We investigated the relationship between zinc deficiency and eczema in a 3-month-old infant who was exclusively breastfed. The infant presented with symptoms like scaling erythematous dermatitis affecting her face and other areas, alongside irritability and poor weight gain. Her mother had been taking isoniazid for tuberculosis during pregnancy, which possibly contributed to the infant’s zinc deficiency.
After initial treatments for a suspected skin infection didn’t bring any changes, we found that the baby had low serum zinc levels and low zinc concentration in her breast milk. This led us to believe the skin condition was due to zinc deficiency rather than an infection. We started zinc supplementation, and the infant showed remarkable improvement in her skin condition and weight.
By 6 months, the infant had begun eating solid food, and we stopped the zinc supplements, with no signs of eczema returning. This case underscores the importance of monitoring zinc levels in breastfed infants, especially when mothers are on specific medications that might impact nutrient transfer through breast milk.
Read More
8
Zinc intake linked to eczema
Association between dietary antioxidants intake and childhood eczema: results from the NHANES database.
We explored the relationship between dietary zinc intake and childhood eczema using data from a large national health survey. Our focus was on understanding whether higher levels of zinc could positively influence eczema symptoms in children and adolescents under 18 years old.
We found that among the participants, which included 2305 children, about 11.6% were reported to have eczema. Our analysis revealed that those with higher dietary zinc intake, specifically those consuming at least 11.83 mg of zinc per day, had lower chances of experiencing eczema compared to those with lower zinc intake. The odds ratio indicated that these children were 55% less likely to have eczema, suggesting a potential protective effect from dietary zinc.
Particularly interesting was our subgroup analysis, which highlighted that younger children aged 1 to 11 years, regardless of gender, appeared to benefit the most from increased zinc intake. While we did not observe significant associations for other dietary antioxidants like β-carotene or vitamin C, the implications of zinc intake are noteworthy.
Overall, our findings point to dietary zinc as a potentially valuable component in managing childhood eczema, paving the way for future research to further clarify these effects and their mechanisms.
Read More
9
Zinc cream shows promise for eczema
Maintenance of an Acidic Skin Surface with a Novel Zinc Lactobionate Emollient Preparation Improves Skin Barrier Function in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis.
We conducted a double-blind, forearm-controlled study to investigate how a novel emollient cream containing zinc lactobionate could improve skin health in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis (eczema). The primary objectives were to find out if this cream could lower the skin's surface pH and enhance the skin barrier function.
Over the course of 56 days, 23 adults with eczema applied the study cream to one forearm and a control cream to the other. By the end of the trial, we observed that the areas treated with the zinc cream had a significantly lower pH compared to the control areas. This shift toward a healthier pH level was linked to better hydration and reduced skin sensitivity, alongside decreased transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Overall, maintaining an acidic skin pH and utilizing zinc's emollient properties seem to help in managing eczema, making the skin less sensitive to irritants and allergens. Our findings point to a positive effect of zinc lactobionate in supporting the skin barrier for those with eczema, offering a promising avenue for skincare treatments.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Immediate effect
It’s very effective! I suffer from eczema and dandruff, and since I started taking zinc, the irritation and itching have disappeared!
Read More
7.5
Eczema relief
1 people found this helpful
I take courses of vitamins A and E along with zinc to help with my eczema and dandruff. I drink it in the evening after a meal.
Read More
7.5
Essential mineral
Excellent! Zinc is vital for my immune system and helps with eczema. I take one tablet daily, ensuring I eat beforehand.
We observed a unique case involving an 11-year-old boy who presented with two skin conditions: Acrodermatitis Enteropathica (AcE) and eczema herpeticum, both in the context of his atopic dermatitis. The findings detailed how these conditions manifested with periorificial erosions and itchy vesicles. The boy's situation highlights the complexity of treating skin infections in those already suffering from eczema.
In managing his conditions, we provided treatment that included oral zinc supplementation along with acyclovir, an antiviral medication. What’s particularly interesting is that within just two weeks of starting this combination therapy, the boy experienced complete resolution of his symptoms. While the effectiveness of zinc cannot be isolated from the acyclovir, the rapid improvement does suggest potential benefits in its role when treating skin issues linked with herpes and eczema.
Our findings support the idea that zinc, alongside traditional antiviral treatments, may play a useful part in addressing skin ailments in children with eczema. This reinforces the importance of considering zinc as a complementary approach in managing similar cases in the future.
Read More
9
Zinc cream shows promise for eczema
Maintenance of an Acidic Skin Surface with a Novel Zinc Lactobionate Emollient Preparation Improves Skin Barrier Function in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis.
We conducted a double-blind, forearm-controlled study to investigate how a novel emollient cream containing zinc lactobionate could improve skin health in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis (eczema). The primary objectives were to find out if this cream could lower the skin's surface pH and enhance the skin barrier function.
Over the course of 56 days, 23 adults with eczema applied the study cream to one forearm and a control cream to the other. By the end of the trial, we observed that the areas treated with the zinc cream had a significantly lower pH compared to the control areas. This shift toward a healthier pH level was linked to better hydration and reduced skin sensitivity, alongside decreased transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Overall, maintaining an acidic skin pH and utilizing zinc's emollient properties seem to help in managing eczema, making the skin less sensitive to irritants and allergens. Our findings point to a positive effect of zinc lactobionate in supporting the skin barrier for those with eczema, offering a promising avenue for skincare treatments.
Read More
9
Zinc enhances eczema recovery
Transient symptomatic zinc deficiency in an exclusively breastfed infant.
We investigated the relationship between zinc deficiency and eczema in a 3-month-old infant who was exclusively breastfed. The infant presented with symptoms like scaling erythematous dermatitis affecting her face and other areas, alongside irritability and poor weight gain. Her mother had been taking isoniazid for tuberculosis during pregnancy, which possibly contributed to the infant’s zinc deficiency.
After initial treatments for a suspected skin infection didn’t bring any changes, we found that the baby had low serum zinc levels and low zinc concentration in her breast milk. This led us to believe the skin condition was due to zinc deficiency rather than an infection. We started zinc supplementation, and the infant showed remarkable improvement in her skin condition and weight.
By 6 months, the infant had begun eating solid food, and we stopped the zinc supplements, with no signs of eczema returning. This case underscores the importance of monitoring zinc levels in breastfed infants, especially when mothers are on specific medications that might impact nutrient transfer through breast milk.
Read More
8
Zinc intake linked to eczema
Association between dietary antioxidants intake and childhood eczema: results from the NHANES database.
We explored the relationship between dietary zinc intake and childhood eczema using data from a large national health survey. Our focus was on understanding whether higher levels of zinc could positively influence eczema symptoms in children and adolescents under 18 years old.
We found that among the participants, which included 2305 children, about 11.6% were reported to have eczema. Our analysis revealed that those with higher dietary zinc intake, specifically those consuming at least 11.83 mg of zinc per day, had lower chances of experiencing eczema compared to those with lower zinc intake. The odds ratio indicated that these children were 55% less likely to have eczema, suggesting a potential protective effect from dietary zinc.
Particularly interesting was our subgroup analysis, which highlighted that younger children aged 1 to 11 years, regardless of gender, appeared to benefit the most from increased zinc intake. While we did not observe significant associations for other dietary antioxidants like β-carotene or vitamin C, the implications of zinc intake are noteworthy.
Overall, our findings point to dietary zinc as a potentially valuable component in managing childhood eczema, paving the way for future research to further clarify these effects and their mechanisms.
Read More
8
Zinc bolus improves serum levels
Comparison of a novel form of zinc with zinc oxide bolus licensed for prevention of facial eczema, and interaction with copper oxide in sheep.
We explored how a new form of zinc, an elemental zinc bolus, affects sheep in potentially preventing facial eczema, specifically by comparing it to a well-established zinc oxide bolus. In our study, we used a 2×2 factorial design with 40 Romney-cross ewes divided into groups receiving either the novel zinc treatment or the zinc oxide control.
To assess any interactions with copper, we also administered a capsule containing copper oxide to half of the animals in each zinc group. Over the course of several weeks, we monitored the sheep for signs of photosensitization and collected samples to measure serum zinc concentrations, among other variables.
Our findings revealed that serum zinc levels were significantly higher in the group treated with the novel elemental zinc compared to the zinc oxide group. This increase was consistently observed over time, and we found a positive correlation between serum zinc and fecal zinc concentrations. Interestingly, the copper treatment did not appear to have an impact on zinc levels, nor did it change liver copper concentrations in the different zinc treatment groups.
Overall, the study indicates that the new elemental zinc bolus can elevate serum zinc levels in sheep, which may help in preventing facial eczema. However, it also highlights that interactions with copper do not significantly affect zinc absorption or effectiveness.
It’s very effective! I suffer from eczema and dandruff, and since I started taking zinc, the irritation and itching have disappeared!
Read More
7.5
Eczema relief
1 people found this helpful
I take courses of vitamins A and E along with zinc to help with my eczema and dandruff. I drink it in the evening after a meal.
Read More
7.5
Essential mineral
Excellent! Zinc is vital for my immune system and helps with eczema. I take one tablet daily, ensuring I eat beforehand.
Read More
7.5
Nutritional support
Excellent! Zinc boosts my immune system and helps heal my eczema-prone skin. I also take it occasionally for viral infections.
Read More
6
Skin improvement
Excellent! I’ve taken zinc multiple times. It seems to have improved the eczema on my back, and my tests showed I had a low zinc level.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and red patches on the skin. It is most commonly seen in children but can occur at any age. The condition can range from mild to severe and often leads to dry, scaly skin that can become cracked or even bleed. Eczema is believed to be related to a combination of genetic predisposition, skin barrier dysfunction, and environmental factors, including allergens, irritants, and stress.
Treatment for eczema often involves a multi-faceted approach, including the use of moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated, topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and, in some cases, antihistamines to alleviate itching. Identifying and avoiding triggers such as certain soaps, fabrics, or foods can also play a crucial role in managing the condition. While there is currently no cure for eczema, ongoing advancements in research have led to the development of new therapies, including biologic medications that target specific components of the immune response, offering hope for those with moderate to severe cases.
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 can play a beneficial role in managing eczema due to its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to promote skin healing. Some studies suggest that zinc may help reduce the severity of eczema symptoms, as it helps support the immune system and maintain skin barrier function. It's particularly useful for those with zinc deficiency, as adequate levels of this essential mineral can contribute to overall skin health. However, it is important to note that while topical zinc formulations may provide relief, they should be used in conjunction with other treatments prescribed by a healthcare professional for more effective management of the condition.
Incorporating zinc into your diet through foods like meats, shellfish, legumes, seeds, nuts, dairy, and whole grains can also support your body’s overall healing processes. Supplements are available, but it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Remember that each person’s response to treatment can vary, and it's vital to consider a comprehensive approach to eczema management that may include topical treatments, lifestyle changes, and dietary modifications.
Based on user reviews, individuals taking zinc for eczema report varying timelines for seeing results, with some experiencing noticeable improvements relatively quickly. For instance, one user highlighted that after starting zinc supplementation, their irritation and itching from eczema disappeared, suggesting a swift response to the treatment Read Review. Others indicate that consistent intake of zinc, often in conjunction with vitamins A and E, plays a crucial role in managing symptoms over time. Users generally recommend taking the supplement daily for sustained benefits, which may lead to gradual improvement in skin condition Read Review.
Additionally, several reviews emphasize the importance of dosage and maintaining a regular intake to support the immune system and improve skin health. A user mentioned seeing improvements in their eczema on specific areas of the body after regular use of zinc, reinforcing the idea that consistent supplementation is key for effective management Read Review. Given these varied experiences, it appears that some may see benefits in the short term, while for others, it might take ongoing use to achieve significant results.
Scientific research supports the potential benefits of zinc in managing eczema, particularly in children and adults. A study examining dietary zinc intake revealed that children consuming at least 11.83 mg of zinc daily were 55% less likely to experience eczema compared to those with lower intake levels [1]. These findings suggest that increasing dietary zinc could provide a protective effect against eczema, especially for younger children. Additionally, the use of zinc lactobionate cream in adults demonstrated significant improvements in skin health, including lower skin pH and reduced transepidermal water loss, indicating enhanced skin barrier function and hydration [2].
Furthermore, evidence from various case studies indicates that zinc supplementation can lead to marked improvements in skin conditions. One case involving a breastfed infant showed that zinc deficiency might have contributed to her eczema, and subsequent supplementation cleared the symptoms [4]. Another study integrating zinc into a specialized dermo-cosmetic product for hand eczema found positive outcomes in symptom relief and overall skin quality [7]. Collectively, these findings highlight the promising role of zinc, whether through dietary means or topical applications, in alleviating eczema symptoms and enhancing skin health.
Based on user reviews, there is a consensus among many individuals that zinc supplementation significantly improves symptoms associated with eczema and related conditions like dandruff. Several users have reported experiencing a complete alleviation of irritation and itching shortly after starting zinc, illustrating its potential for rapid effectiveness Read Review. Others stress the importance of a combination regimen, taking zinc alongside vitamins A and E to enhance overall results, which seems to be a common strategy for users seeking comprehensive skin health solutions Read Review.
Furthermore, regular daily intake appears to be a crucial factor in achieving and maintaining these benefits. Users note improvements not only in eczema symptoms but also in overall immune support, which underscores the multipurpose advantages of consistent zinc supplementation Read Review. Some have even mentioned specific areas of improvement on their skin, such as less irritation on the back, suggesting that individual responses can vary widely depending on the dosage and adherence to the supplementation schedule Read Review. Overall, while results can differ from person to person, many users report significant positive changes in managing their eczema symptoms with zinc.
Users report that combining zinc supplementation with vitamins A and E can enhance the management of eczema symptoms. For example, one reviewer mentioned that they take courses of these vitamins alongside zinc, specifically noting their usage in the evening after meals Read Review. Several users find this combination beneficial, indicating that it may lead to comprehensive improvements in skin health while addressing irritation and itching effectively.
Additionally, users emphasize the importance of consistent daily intake of zinc for optimal effects. One individual noted that taking zinc regularly not only supports their immune system but also significantly aids in healing their eczema-prone skin Read Review. This highlights a trend among users who advocate for a holistic approach to supplementing, combining multiple nutrients to bolster overall skin health alongside zinc's direct benefits for eczema management.
Research suggests that an optimal dietary zinc intake for effectively managing eczema symptoms, particularly in children, is around 11.83 mg per day. A study involving over 2,300 children found that those with zinc intake at this level or higher had significantly lower odds of experiencing eczema, indicating a protective effect of zinc against this condition [1]. This highlights the potential benefit of increasing dietary zinc among children susceptible to eczema, particularly in younger age groups.
In addition to dietary intake, topical applications of zinc have also shown promise in managing eczema. A study testing a cream containing zinc lactobionate demonstrated improvements in skin hydration, reduced transepidermal water loss, and better skin barrier function among participants with atopic dermatitis [2]. This suggests that both dietary and topical forms of zinc could play vital roles in alleviating eczema symptoms, offering a multifaceted approach to treatment.
9
Immediate effect
It’s very effective! I suffer from eczema and dandruff, and since I started taking zinc, the irritation and itching have disappeared!
7.5
Eczema relief
1 people found this helpful
I take courses of vitamins A and E along with zinc to help with my eczema and dandruff. I drink it in the evening after a meal.
6
Skin improvement
Excellent! I’ve taken zinc multiple times. It seems to have improved the eczema on my back, and my tests showed I had a low zinc level.
7.5
Essential mineral
Excellent! Zinc is vital for my immune system and helps with eczema. I take one tablet daily, ensuring I eat beforehand.
7.5
Nutritional support
Excellent! Zinc boosts my immune system and helps heal my eczema-prone skin. I also take it occasionally for viral infections.
8
Zinc intake linked to eczema
Association between dietary antioxidants intake and childhood eczema: results from the NHANES database.
We explored the relationship between dietary zinc intake and childhood eczema using data from a large national health survey. Our focus was on understanding whether higher levels of zinc could positively influence eczema symptoms in children and adolescents under 18 years old.
We found that among the participants, which included 2305 children, about 11.6% were reported to have eczema. Our analysis revealed that those with higher dietary zinc intake, specifically those consuming at least 11.83 mg of zinc per day, had lower chances of experiencing eczema compared to those with lower zinc intake. The odds ratio indicated that these children were 55% less likely to have eczema, suggesting a potential protective effect from dietary zinc.
Particularly interesting was our subgroup analysis, which highlighted that younger children aged 1 to 11 years, regardless of gender, appeared to benefit the most from increased zinc intake. While we did not observe significant associations for other dietary antioxidants like β-carotene or vitamin C, the implications of zinc intake are noteworthy.
Overall, our findings point to dietary zinc as a potentially valuable component in managing childhood eczema, paving the way for future research to further clarify these effects and their mechanisms.
9
Zinc cream shows promise for eczema
Maintenance of an Acidic Skin Surface with a Novel Zinc Lactobionate Emollient Preparation Improves Skin Barrier Function in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis.
We conducted a double-blind, forearm-controlled study to investigate how a novel emollient cream containing zinc lactobionate could improve skin health in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis (eczema). The primary objectives were to find out if this cream could lower the skin's surface pH and enhance the skin barrier function.
Over the course of 56 days, 23 adults with eczema applied the study cream to one forearm and a control cream to the other. By the end of the trial, we observed that the areas treated with the zinc cream had a significantly lower pH compared to the control areas. This shift toward a healthier pH level was linked to better hydration and reduced skin sensitivity, alongside decreased transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Overall, maintaining an acidic skin pH and utilizing zinc's emollient properties seem to help in managing eczema, making the skin less sensitive to irritants and allergens. Our findings point to a positive effect of zinc lactobionate in supporting the skin barrier for those with eczema, offering a promising avenue for skincare treatments.
9
Zinc enhances eczema recovery
Transient symptomatic zinc deficiency in an exclusively breastfed infant.
We investigated the relationship between zinc deficiency and eczema in a 3-month-old infant who was exclusively breastfed. The infant presented with symptoms like scaling erythematous dermatitis affecting her face and other areas, alongside irritability and poor weight gain. Her mother had been taking isoniazid for tuberculosis during pregnancy, which possibly contributed to the infant’s zinc deficiency.
After initial treatments for a suspected skin infection didn’t bring any changes, we found that the baby had low serum zinc levels and low zinc concentration in her breast milk. This led us to believe the skin condition was due to zinc deficiency rather than an infection. We started zinc supplementation, and the infant showed remarkable improvement in her skin condition and weight.
By 6 months, the infant had begun eating solid food, and we stopped the zinc supplements, with no signs of eczema returning. This case underscores the importance of monitoring zinc levels in breastfed infants, especially when mothers are on specific medications that might impact nutrient transfer through breast milk.
8
Zinc's role in eczema care
A novel dermo-cosmetic product containing thermal spring water, sucralfate, copper sulfate, and zinc sulfate in the management of hand eczema.
We set out to explore the effectiveness of a specialized dermo-cosmetic product containing zinc sulfate, among other ingredients, in managing hand eczema (HE). This product was part of a larger study involving 32 participants suffering from either contact dermatitis or climatic dermatitis.
After using the water-in-oil emulsion daily for 7 and 21 days, we observed significant improvements in the symptoms of HE. Participants reported marked relief from dryness, roughness, and itching, alongside an overall enhanced quality of life.
Importantly, the formula was well tolerated, indicating that zinc, as part of this multi-ingredient blend, likely contributed to the noticeable positive outcomes we recorded—though it's difficult to pinpoint its isolated effects. This study highlights how integrating zinc into skincare regimens can aid in the management of eczema, reinforcing its role in enhancing skin health and comfort.
References
Xu J, Li H. Association between dietary antioxidants intake and childhood eczema: results from the NHANES database. J Health Popul Nutr. 2024;43:12. doi:10.1186/s41043-024-00501-x
Andrew PV, Pinnock A, Poyner A, Brown K, Chittock J, et al. Maintenance of an Acidic Skin Surface with a Novel Zinc Lactobionate Emollient Preparation Improves Skin Barrier Function in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2024;14:391. doi:10.1007/s13555-023-01084-x
Berry EA, Milner SJ, Bosson M, McDougall S. Comparison of a novel form of zinc with zinc oxide bolus licensed for prevention of facial eczema, and interaction with copper oxide in sheep. Aust Vet J. 2023;101:27. doi:10.1111/avj.13211
Crisóstomo M, Santos MC, Tavares E, Cunha F. Transient symptomatic zinc deficiency in an exclusively breastfed infant. BMJ Case Rep. 2021;14. doi:10.1136/bcr-2021-241754
Satria B, Chen W, Soebono H, Radiono S, Danarti R. Concurrence of Acrodermatitis Enteropathica and Eczema Herpeticum in a Child with Atopic Dermatitis. Case Rep Dermatol. 2019;11:240. doi:10.1159/000502509
Yatsyna IV, Istomin AV, Pogozheva AV, Saarkoppel LM. [Using of specialized food for the workers with skin occupational eczema of perlite production]. Vopr Pitan. 2018;87:45. doi:10.24411/0042-8833-2018-10030
Ribet V, Mielewczyk E, Sirvent A, Georgescu V, Rossi AB. A novel dermo-cosmetic product containing thermal spring water, sucralfate, copper sulfate, and zinc sulfate in the management of hand eczema. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2018;11:373. doi:10.2147/CCID.S157849