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
Significant skin improvement
4 people found this helpful
A true game changer for my skin! It has significantly improved my condition and helped my acne. I highly recommend it!
Read More
9
Dramatic zinc improvement
5 people found this helpful
This product has significantly raised my low zinc levels. I’ve seen excellent results, particularly concerning acne problems, and many others have had similar positive experiences.
Read More
2
Acne-like rash
2 people found this helpful
I adore New Chapter Organics products, purchasing this zinc supplement for winter colds. However, after only three days, I developed an acne-like rash on my chin. Research revealed that zinc can worsen acne, so I stopped taking it, and the rash subsided.
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.
A true game changer for my skin! It has significantly improved my condition and helped my acne. I highly recommend it!
Read More
9
Dramatic zinc improvement
5 people found this helpful
This product has significantly raised my low zinc levels. I’ve seen excellent results, particularly concerning acne problems, and many others have had similar positive experiences.
Read More
2
Acne-like rash
2 people found this helpful
I adore New Chapter Organics products, purchasing this zinc supplement for winter colds. However, after only three days, I developed an acne-like rash on my chin. Research revealed that zinc can worsen acne, so I stopped taking it, and the rash subsided.
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.
Based on user reviews, results from taking this supplement for acne can vary, but many users report noticing significant improvements within a few weeks of consistent use. One user specifically mentioned that they experienced excellent results concerning their acne problems, indicating that the supplement had a positive effect on their skin condition relatively quickly Read Review. While individual experiences may differ, it's not uncommon for individuals to see improvements in their skin within the first month of supplementation. Consistency in taking the supplement as directed is likely a key factor in achieving the best results.
Several scientific studies suggest that zinc may be a beneficial supplement for managing acne. For instance, research has indicated that high doses of dietary zinc can help reduce inflammation associated with acne vulgaris, particularly when validated through animal models [1]. Furthermore, a systematic review noted that patients receiving zinc treatment often experienced a reduction in inflammatory acne lesions [16]. Other investigations have shown that zinc sulfate can play a significant role in alleviating symptoms of acne rosacea, with about 40% to 60% of patients reporting moderate to good responses [2].
While these findings are promising, it's important to understand that the isolated effects of zinc on acne treatment are still not entirely conclusive. Many studies indicate that zinc may work more effectively when used alongside other treatments, and gastrointestinal side effects have been noted, which could deter some patients from its use [5]. Overall, while zinc supplementation appears to offer potential benefits for acne sufferers, further research is needed to clarify its specific role and effectiveness as a standalone treatment [11].
Users report a notable improvement in their symptoms after using this supplement, particularly in relation to acne issues. Many users have noted that their zinc levels have positively increased, leading to a reduction in acne and overall skin condition. For instance, one user highlighted their significant improvement and mentioned that others have shared similar positive experiences, indicating a general trend among those who have supplemented with this product Read Review. While results can vary from person to person, it appears that a substantial number of users have found efficacy in alleviating their symptoms through consistent use of this supplement. This reinforces the importance of following dosage recommendations to achieve the desired outcomes.
According to research, an optimal dose of zinc for treating acne is still a topic needing further investigation. However, some studies have noted positive outcomes with specific concentrations. Zinc sulfate, for instance, at a concentration of 5% was reported to help reduce symptoms in patients with acne rosacea, where approximately 40% to 60% of the study participants showed improvement ([2]). Additionally, high doses of dietary zinc have demonstrated potential in alleviating inflammation in acne models, suggesting that higher doses may be beneficial for some individuals ([1]).
It's important to note that while the promising effects of zinc on acne treatment are acknowledged, the exact optimal dose remains undefined. Some research implies high dietary zinc might serve as a therapeutic option, but its effects can be influenced by patient-specific factors and other concurrent treatments ([4]). Consequently, for those considering zinc as a part of their acne management regimen, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate and effective dosage tailored to their individual needs.
9
Dramatic zinc improvement
5 people found this helpful
This product has significantly raised my low zinc levels. I’ve seen excellent results, particularly concerning acne problems, and many others have had similar positive experiences.
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.
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!
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.
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.
We explored the potential benefits of zinc in treating acne based on a review of available literature. This review examined various studies focusing on the use of zinc for acne vulgaris, along with its effectiveness for other skin conditions like leishmaniasis and hidradenitis suppurativa.
Through our search in MEDLINE, we found that zinc seems to have both antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, which may contribute to its effectiveness in treating inflammatory conditions, including acne. While the evidence is promising, especially for those with zinc deficiency, it’s important to note that there’s still a need for further research to clarify how effective zinc can be when used on its own, without other treatments.
Patients experiencing acne might benefit from additional strategies, including zinc supplementation. However, the exact role of zinc as a standalone therapy still requires more investigation through large controlled trials.
8
Zinc shows promise for acne treatment
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Acne vulgaris, Rosacea, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa Supports High Dose Dietary Zinc as a Therapeutic Agent.
We examined how dietary zinc may affect acne. Our analysis focused on comparing transcriptomic data from acne vulgaris, rosacea, and hidradenitis suppurativa. The goal was to uncover the different molecular pathways involved in these skin conditions.
Throughout this study, we identified specific genes and pathways that are uniquely expressed in each condition. Interestingly, we found that high doses of dietary zinc could potentially serve as an effective treatment for acne. To ensure the accuracy of our findings, we also validated its impact using an acne mouse model, which supported our initial hypothesis.
This research highlights zinc's possible role in acne management. We believe that these findings could provide new avenues for treating inflammatory skin conditions, streamlining the therapeutic process for those affected.
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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 10.22092/ARI.2021.356857.1928
Poizeau F, Plantier F, Bell H, Moyal-Barracco M. Vulvar Fordyce adenitis: A cohort of 45 women. Ann Dermatol Venereol. 2021;148:221. 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. 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. 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. 10.1111/dth.14252