It is vital to the body’s health due to its critical roles in growth and development, bone metabolism, the central nervous system, immune function, and wound healing.

Zinc is particularly important for the skin. The skin contains a relatively high zinc content (about 5% of the body content), mainly associated within the epidermis (50-70 μg/g of dry weight). Due to its abundance in the epidermis, it is observed that a zinc deficiency results in rough skin and an impaired barrier function. The skin becomes increasingly dry. In addition, an alteration in wound healing is also correlated with this dietary deficiency.

_{(Thanks to Typology for their wonderful informative article on zinc which this is fully based on: https://us.typology.com/library/zinc-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-active-ingredient)}

The benefits of zinc for the skin, hair, and nails.

Zinc is a mineral that is particularly prevalent in skin and hair care products. Its concentration is restricted in Europe according to cosmetic regulations to 1% zinc in the final product.

What are the benefits of zinc for the skin?

When applied topically, zinc is a comprehensive anti-acne agent. This trace element possesses anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties that are highly beneficial for skin. Indeed, it inhibits the growth of the bacteria responsible for acne, Propionobacterium Acnes, which is the primary bacteria implicated in this skin condition. Moreover, zinc reduces the activity of the sebaceous glands due to its anti-androgenic activity. Thus, it helps regulate sebum production and thereby prevents blemishes.

Limiting itchiness. Zinc possesses soothing properties. It acts as a regulator of interleukin 1-alpha, a mediator of inflammation. Thus, it alleviates scalp and skin discomforts such as itching, tingling, tightness, and other unpleasant sensations.

The potential dangers and contraindications of zinc in cosmetics.

There are a vast number of zinc-derived ingredients used in skin and hair care. Among these, some are controversial, such as the following i-compounds.

• The zinc oxide nanoparticlesUsed as UV filters in sun care products, the health risks are associated with percutaneous penetration, suspected reproductive toxicity, suspected genotoxicity, and a suspected carcinogenic effect.These nanoparticles are also potentially ecotoxic for aquatic environments. These compounds are part of our blacklist of ingredients, they are excluded from our products.
• The zinc chloride and the zinc acetateThese compounds are used as antimicrobials, soothing agents, astringents, and oral hygiene agents. However, they are suspected endocrine disruptors. Additionally, they also poserisks to the environment:bioaccumulative substances, persistent substances, aquatic ecotoxicity.
• The zinc PyrithioneThis active ingredient,known for its anti-dandruff, anti-seborrheic, hair conditioning, and preservative properties, is banned in Europe. It is a suspected mutagen and potential reproductive toxin.

We use the zinc-based compound called Zinc PCA. This active ingredient does not present any contraindications, nor health risks.

We use a plant-based zinc, derived from beetroot. It is then combined with L-PCA. The latter is a physiological vector, meaning it’s an active ingredient that aids in the absorption of zinc by skin cells.

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