Zinc is an essential mineral that stimulates cellular processes and improves skin health. Some of the most well-known benefits of zinc are – healing wounds, regulating thyroid functions, and boosting immunity.
Zinc is a ‘trace mineral,’ which means that our bodies only require tiny amounts of it. Did you know that over 300 enzymatic processes rely on zinc? Zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, dry skin, nausea, and slow wound healing. If you’re wondering about the benefits of taking zinc skin supplements, we’ve listed its benefits below for skin health and overall wellbeing.
Benefits of Zinc for Skin
The epidermal layer of the skin has one of the highest concentrations of zinc. The benefits of zinc when it comes to skin health are primarily due to its role in keratin building and collagen formation. It also aids in a type of cross-linking, which imparts durability and stability to the skin’s structural protein.
1. Healing Skin Infections or Wounds
Zinc is used alone in the form of skin supplements or as a combination with other minerals to aid in the treatment of dermatological infections.
This is because it plays a fundamental role within the cells of our body and aids in modulating macrophage and neutrophil functions and inflammatory cytokines. When applied as a topical ointment, zinc stimulates wound repair.
Therefore, it is used to primarily treat chronic wounds and ulcers that may develop into a superinfection.
2. Acne Management
No matter your age, acne is something that most of us have experienced. Antibiotics may be administered to help manage acne, but the over administration of antibiotics is a growing concern. Research has proved that zinc skin supplements are also a viable alternative to treat acne.
Some people with recurrent acne have a deficiency of zinc, so skin supplements are a good option. Zinc reduces the inflammatory response to bacteria minimising keratinocyte activity, leading to healthy, glowing skin.
3. Improving Eczema
Zinc has been known to play a key role in alleviating the symptoms of eczema. In fact, in a study published in 1999, it was found that approximately 93% of the control group’s skin condition underwent a positive change.
They were given zinc skin supplements for a period of one month, after which their eczema significantly, if not totally improved.
4. Works Like Antioxidants
While zinc itself is not an antioxidant, like certain vitamins, it plays an important role in your skin’s defense mechanism. It minimises the formation of radicals that damage the skin and cause aging.
A supplement for the skin that contains zinc also protects the lipids or healthy fats in the skin and fibroblasts. The latter refers to cells that produce collagen, which is important for protecting your skin from external contaminants.
This includes harmful UV rays, dust, and pollution, which cause the signs of aging like wrinkles and dark spots. Zinc is, therefore, an essential ingredient in many sunscreens, as it completely shields the skin from harmful sun rays.
Benefits of Zinc for Overall Health
While zinc’s role in promoting skin health cannot be overlooked, the trace mineral has several other benefits on our overall health.
1. Boosts Immunity
Vitamin C is well-known for its properties that boost our immune systems, but researchers state that even zinc is on par with this vitamin. Our immune cells rely on zinc for their healthy development and functioning.
While zinc is known for being one of the essential supplements for beautiful skin, it also alleviates the symptoms of the common cold.
Studies have proven that those who take zinc acetate lozenges within a day of first experiencing symptoms have a shorter recovery time.
2. Blood Sugar Management
When you take zinc supplements for beautiful skin, not only is your collagen production improved, but also the secretion and storage of insulin. Though the research is still in its preliminary stages, it does seem promising.
According to the findings of one study, those who took zinc supplements had healthy lipid parameters and better blood sugar control. Another study conducted on an obese sample group stated that zinc supplements increased insulin sensitivity.
3. Promotes a Healthy Heart
In a study conducted in 2015, zinc skin supplements were also said to promote heart health. This included a significant lowering of heart-related parameters such as total cholesterol, triglycerides, and “bad” cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
4. Slows Macular Degeneration Progression
Older people are more at risk for zinc deficiency, and an eye condition called macular degeneration, which worsens with age. The course of action for the condition involves treatment with some essential vitamins and minerals like zinc.
Researchers state that multivitamin supplements that contain zinc can slow the progression of this affliction. This is because skin plays a vital role in regulating eye health.
5. Decreases Preterm Births
A supplement for skin that contains zinc improves collagen production. This is because, in general, zinc improves protein production and helps in DNA formation.
Therefore, it is a vital mineral for pregnant women, as it helps in proper development and growth while minimising preterm labor risk. Zinc can be either obtained naturally through a balanced diet, or the women can be given prenatal vitamins containing zinc.
6. Supports Childhood Growth
Zinc supplements given to infants, and children, in the event of a deficiency, are said to promote healthy growth and boost mental well-being.
Of course, it is recommended that a pediatrician should be consulted before administering zinc supplements.
Also, early studies that explore the benefits of zinc have suggested that a zinc imbalance in the brain may have a key role to play in brain-related conditions. This includes depression and cognitive decline with progressing age.
Final Words
The benefits of zinc are in-numerous both for our skin and overall health. The cells in our skin are particularly dependent on this trace mineral to promote collagen production, combat the signs of aging, and heal wounds.
Preliminary studies have also indicated that zinc, whether taken naturally or as a supplement, plays a key role in boosting immunity and stimulating the brain. Overall, zinc is an essential mineral in our dietary routines and should be taken in recommended amounts!