Recommended by nutritionists and dermatologists alike, zinc is perhaps most commonly known as a soothing ingredient in diaper-rash creams. But with a plethora of other benefits associated with this powerhouse mineral, now is the perfect time to integrate it into your beauty arsenal.
What role does zinc play in skincare?
“Zinc is a trace mineral and an essential nutrient that your body can’t produce,” explains New York-based dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss. “Diet, supplements and topical skincare products are all ways to deliver zinc, which helps with immune function, wound healing and inflammation.” However, as it’s not stored in the body for long periods of time, regular consumption is crucial for overall health – and Georgie Cleeve, founder of nutritional skincare brand Oskia, has developed a way to help. “Zinc is a very large molecule, which is why it’s used as a mineral UV protector to act as a physical barrier to UV rays and cannot penetrate the skin unaided,” she says. “So, at Oskia, we’ve grafted zinc onto glycine – the smallest of the amino acids – to aid dermal penetration.”