Zinc is an essential trace mineral needed by the body for proper growth and maintenance. While zinc is involved in many functions of the body, including enzyme activity, protein synthesis and carbohydrate metabolism, it is particularly beneficial to the skin. It aids in collagen production, decreases free radical activity, helps prevent the growth of bacteria and reduces inflammation.
Zinc & Your Skin
A 2006 study in the "Annals of Burns and Fire Disasters" concluded that zinc, when taken internally by burn patients, accelerated the healing and repair of damaged skin. Indeed, when it comes to maintaining, repairing and regenerating the skin, zinc is ideal for alleviating a range of skin conditions. Those skin conditions that feature swelling or abrasion--such as acne, blisters, burns, cuts, dermatitis (skin inflammation), diaper rash, eczema, rosacea and wounds--benefit in particular from a consistent intake of this mineral.
Topical Uses
Zinc can be used topically, for sun protection and the accelerated healing of skin. Zinc is found in creams to alleviate diaper rash, as well as ointments used for the healing of wounds, cuts and abrasions. Zinc oxide can also be found in many sun protection preparations. In this form, zinc acts as a physical sunblock, providing complete UVB/UVA protection. (It is also the only active sunscreen ingredient approved by the FDA for use on infants under 6 months old.)
Dosage & Sources
The daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of zinc for adults age 19 and older is 11 milligrams for males and 8 milligrams for females. The body naturally produces zinc, however, you can increase your body's supply of this mineral via diet or supplements. Zinc is found in many foods, including red meat, poultry and shellfish (notably oysters and crab). Other food sources include beans, nuts, grains and dairy products. Zinc can also be found in most multivitamin and mineral supplements.
Deficiency
While zinc deficiency is rare in industrialized countries, the most common signs of zinc depletion are seen in skin that is rough or dry, hair that is dull, fingernails that are weak (or have white spots on them), mood swings, acne, dermatitis and skin healing that is delayed or sluggish. Such symptoms can be alleviated by intaking adequate amounts of zinc each day. Note that a consistent intake of this mineral is important, as the body does not have a way to store zinc.
Warnings
If you are upping your intake of zinc, also increase your intake of vitamin A. Zinc is synergistic and works best in conjunction with vitamin A, calcium and phosphorous. Also, if you are taking both iron and zinc via supplements, do take them at different times of the day so the absorption of one does not compete with the other. Excessively high intake of zinc have been linked to copper deficiency, as zinc is thought to inhibit absorption of this mineral.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center
- Office of Dietary Supplements
- Annals of Burns and Fire Disasters; Effect Of Zinc Supplement in The Prognosis of Burn Patients in Iraq; Al-Kaisy A.A., Salih Sahib A., Al-Biati H.A.H.K.; 2006
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