Zinc For Acne: Does It Really Work?

People have been using zinc for acne  since long time. (Image via Pexels/ Kindel Media)
People have been using zinc for acne for a while. (Image via Pexels/Kindel Media)

You've come to the right place if you're wondering whether zinc for acne is a good idea. Although it's normal to have some skepticism towards natural treatments like vitamins and supplements, zinc therapy in dermatology is well known.

Research demonstrates zinc's beneficial effects on the skin and its potency in treating acne vulgaris. It's not a miracle treatment for zits (as there isn't such a thing); zinc actually can assist, so it's definitely worth your consideration.


Zinc and Acne: A Good Combination or a Bad One?

Man wiping his face (Image via Pexels/Cottonbro Studio)
Man wiping his face (Image via Pexels/Cottonbro Studio)

Zinc for acne is a wonderful choice. Both can travel together down a slow but definite path to healing with the right dosage. While both adults and teenagers have used zinc for acne over the years, big pharma has only just begun to take this natural remedy seriously.

Unfortunately, the body can't store this mineral, so you need to eat enough of it every day to prevent deficits. It aids other vitamins and minerals to renew, restore, and protect the health of skin. Additionally, it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Due to its transformational effects on the skin, nails, and hair, zinc is occasionally referred to as the beauty mineral. That's why brittle nails and hair loss are two of the most prevalent symptoms of zinc deficiency. Deficits increase the frequency of eczema flare-ups, rashes, xerosis, or dry, scaly skin. As the top layer of the skin contains more zinc than deeper ones, flare-ups occur.


Should You Use Zinc for Acne?

You should never pop your pimples. (Image via Pexels/Polina Tankilevitch)
You should never pop your pimples. (Image via Pexels/Polina Tankilevitch)

In the realm of minerals, zinc is a dominant force. Among many benefits, it strengthens the immune system, supports brain growth and memory retention, and guards against retinal cell damage.

It's also fascinating to note that the body doesn't naturally generate it, so you must obtain it externally via food or supplements. Another amazing application for zinc? treatment of acne.

Studies have shown that zinc for acne is a great option, as the mineral may lessen the number of papules and cysts when taken orally and administered topically, but additional research is required.


Effects of Zinc for Acne

Woman seeing in a mirror. (Image via Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio)
Woman seeing in a mirror. (Image via Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio)

Acne develops when sebum, germs, and dead skin cells clog hair follicles. The face, neck, chest, and back might develop whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, or cysts as a result of clogged pores caused by excessive sebum production.

The body uses zinc's anti-inflammatory qualities to lessen swelling and redness in acne sufferers. According to studies, people who received zinc treatment see fewer active breakouts than those who did not.

Zinc can aid in minimizing any lingering acne scarring, as it promotes wound healing. If your dermatologist suspects a zinc shortage, they might recommend supplements.


How is Zinc Good for Acne?

Zinc is referred to as a trace mineral, as we only need very small amounts of it daily in our diet.

The body needs zinc for around 300 enzymatic reactions. Signs of a deficiency include delayed growth, low insulin levels, lack of appetite, irritability, rough and dry scalp, slow wound healing, diarrhea, and nausea.

Here are the ways that prove zinc for acne is a good option:

1) Reduces inflammation

Zinc for acne is a great option. (Image via Pexels/Anna Nekrashevich)
Zinc for acne is a great option. (Image via Pexels/Anna Nekrashevich)

Overall, physiological inflammation, including the inflammatory reaction the body has to acne, is reduced by zinc.

A clogged pore sends an inflammatory signal throughout the body, making it red and uncomfortable. Unexpectedly, skin that's prone to acne reacts to bacteria more aggressively than other skin types. Zinc helps soothe the impact that bacteria have on the skin by reducing the inflammatory reaction.

2) Zinc lowers keratinocyte activation

Keratinocyte activation is lowered by zinc. Skin cells are held together by keratin, which is produced by keratinocytes. Skin cells that are overly keratinized cling together, clogging pores and aggravating acne. Zinc decreases keratin and aids in keeping the skin's surface clear of build-up and acne.

3) Zinc inhibits DHT

Zinc partially inhibits DHT, a potent androgen that contributes to men's 'manly' traits.

DHT overproduction can result in unpleasant physical changes, including acne and hair loss. DHT blockers, such as zinc, stop these hormones from being produced in excess and help the body's natural hormonal equilibrium. While it may not be a particularly potent hormone balancer, any help is appreciated.

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