Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBenefits of Zinc for AcneThe Role of ZincAcne and Its CausesHow Much Zinc?Are They Good for Me?Tips
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Benefits of Zinc for Acne
The Role of Zinc
Acne and Its Causes
How Much Zinc?
Are They Good for Me?
Tips
Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a common and prevalent skin condition affecting approximately 15% of the world’s population. It primarily affects young people during puberty, peaking between the ages of 14 and 18, but it can also occur in adulthood.
Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease that results when the skin’s hair follicles and adjoining sebaceous glands become clogged withsebum. Sebum is an oily, waxy substance that protects the skin and helps it retain moisture.Primarily, acne affects the face, but it can also commonly affect the back and chest.
While many topical treatments for acne are prescribed, there is an increasing interest in dietary and supplemental treatments that can help lessen acne symptom severity. Recently, zinc has been explored as a potential remedy for acne—alone and with other treatments.
This article explains the role of zinc in acne treatment, its potential benefits and sources, and tips for using zinc to aid in the treatment of acne.
Female holding vitamins in her palm, and a glass of water in the other hand.Rowan Jordan / Getty Images
Rowan Jordan / Getty Images
Evidence supports the use of zinc for acne. The potential benefits of zinc for acne include the following:
Zinc’s Role in Acne Treatment
Zinc is a micronutrient that serves many functions, including aiding in metabolism and the proper functioning of cells.As a potential acne treatment, zinc’s most important function is its role in your skin’s health and ability to protect your skin.
A collection of studies found significantly low zinc levels in individuals with acne. Additionally, both oral and topical administrations of zinc reduced inflammatory acne episodes. These results were accomplished without an increase in adverse effects, such as nausea or vomiting.
Another collection of studies looked at how topical (on the skin) zinc—alone and with other acne treatments—lessens the frequency and severity of acne outbreaks. Topical zinc was shown to be an effective treatment alone and in combination, with minimal side effects reported.
A review of studies found that zinc (both oral and topical) helped treat acne when used alone. Other studies found that using zinc and other treatments was more effective than using the treatments alone. The remaining four studies found mixed or insignificant results regarding the effectiveness of zinc on acne.
Because studies have used varying types, applications, and amounts of zinc, it’s difficult to form a consensus on its benefits for acne.
Understanding Acne and Its Causes
As mentioned above, acne is a common, chronic disease affecting the skin’s hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Despite its high prevalence, acne’s underlying causes are not well-understood beyond identifying the glands involved in its development.
Internal (such as hormonal imbalances) and external (such as pollution) impact the sebaceous glands and can disrupt the surrounding skin.
Overproduction of sebum, the tendency for bacterial infections, and/or the blockage of the glands (known askeratosis) can all lead to acne development. Genetics may also significantly contribute to the likelihood of developing acne.
Not only does acne produce profound physical effects, but it also can have a significant psychological impact on quality of life and self-esteem. People with acne report high degrees of social stigma, which affects both their physical and mental health in meaningful ways.
Therefore, the importance of finding a variety of methods to relieve or decrease acne severity cannot be overstated.
How Much Zinc Do I Need?
It is possible to get enough zinc from food sources. However, individuals with an underlying zinc deficiency and/or inadequate dietary intake may need supplementation.
The recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) set for zinc from preteen to adulthood are as follows:
The tolerable upper intake level (UL) for zinc in adults is 40 mg a day, meaning this is the most you can safely take.
Zinc Food Sources and Supplements
Zinc is found in many food sources andover-the-counter supplements, alone and in combination with other vitamins or minerals.
Below is a list ofzinc-rich foods:
Thebioavailability(the ability of the body to process and absorb the nutrients in a food) of zinc varies across different food sources.
Animal sources of zinc, such as fish, are much more bioavailable than grain and legume sources.
Fermentation or sprouting of grains and legumes might increase their bioavailability.
Tips for Using Zinc for Acne
Both oral and topical options for zinc usage are widely available without a prescription in the United States.
For individuals interested in trying oral supplementation of zinc as a natural remedy for acne, two important considerations are:
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies oral zinc as a category C supplement, meaning “risk cannot be ruled out.” Therefore, pregnant people should proceed with caution before taking oral zinc supplements.
Topical zinc has not been found to cause side effects except for those allergic to ingredients in the cream or gel.
It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider such as a dermatologist (a specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions of the skin, hair, and nails) before starting zinc supplementation.
This is especially important for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking specific medications like someantibiotics.
In the United States, the FDA does not regulate supplements like prescription drugs. This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN or RD), or pharmacist.
In the United States, the FDA does not regulate supplements like prescription drugs. This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN or RD), or pharmacist.
Summary
The evidence supporting zinc’s effect on improving acne symptoms and severity is encouraging but not uniform. Anecdotal evidence may assist individuals in deciding whether zinc usage is right for them.
Oral supplementation of zinc at or exceeding 40 mg a day may cause gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Pregnant people should exercise caution when taking oral zinc supplements for acne.
There is no clear evidence of side effects from topical zinc application; however, consultation with a healthcare provider is always recommended before starting a new supplement or skincare regimen.
14 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Podgórska A, Puścion-Jakubik A, Markiewicz-Żukowska R, et al.Acne vulgaris and intake of selected dietary nutrients - a summary of information.Healthcare (Basel). 2021;9(6):668. doi:10.3390/healthcare9060668Picardo M, Mastrofrancesco A, Bíró T.Sebaceous gland-a major player in skin homoeostasis.Exp Dermatol. 2015;24(7):485-486. doi:10.1111/exd.12720Podgórska A, Kicman A, Naliwajko S, et al.Zinc, copper, and iron in selected skin diseases.Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(7):3823. doi:10.3390/ijms25073823National Institutes of Health.Zinc factsheet for professionals.Zou P, Du Y, Yang C, et al.Trace element zinc and skin disorders.Front Med (Lausanne). 2023;9:1093868. doi:10.3389/fmed.2022.1093868Yee BE, Richards P, Sui JY, et al.Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis.Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14252. doi:10.1111/dth.14252Liu H, Yu H, Xia J, et al.Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD011368. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011368.pub2Cervantes J, Eber AE, Perper M, et al.The role of zinc in the treatment of acne: A review of the literature.Dermatol Ther. 2018;31(1):10.1111/dth.12576. doi:10.1111/dth.12576Kucharska A, Szmurło A, Sińska B.Significance of diet in treated and untreated acne vulgaris.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(2):81-86. doi:10.5114/ada.2016.59146Davern J, O’Donnell AT.Stigma predicts health-related quality of life impairment, psychological distress, and somatic symptoms in acne sufferers.PLoS One. 2018;13(9):e0205009. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0205009Craig WJ, Mangels AR, Fresán U, et al.The safe and effective use of plant-based diets with guidelines for health professionals.Nutrients. 2021;13(11):4144. doi:10.3390/nu13114144Tolino E, Skroza N, Mambrin A, et al.An open-label study comparing oral zinc to lymecycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(5):56-58.National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements.Copper: fact sheet for health care professionals.Gröber U.Magnesium and drugs.Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(9):2094. Published 2019 Apr 28. doi:10.3390/ijms20092094
14 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Podgórska A, Puścion-Jakubik A, Markiewicz-Żukowska R, et al.Acne vulgaris and intake of selected dietary nutrients - a summary of information.Healthcare (Basel). 2021;9(6):668. doi:10.3390/healthcare9060668Picardo M, Mastrofrancesco A, Bíró T.Sebaceous gland-a major player in skin homoeostasis.Exp Dermatol. 2015;24(7):485-486. doi:10.1111/exd.12720Podgórska A, Kicman A, Naliwajko S, et al.Zinc, copper, and iron in selected skin diseases.Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(7):3823. doi:10.3390/ijms25073823National Institutes of Health.Zinc factsheet for professionals.Zou P, Du Y, Yang C, et al.Trace element zinc and skin disorders.Front Med (Lausanne). 2023;9:1093868. doi:10.3389/fmed.2022.1093868Yee BE, Richards P, Sui JY, et al.Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis.Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14252. doi:10.1111/dth.14252Liu H, Yu H, Xia J, et al.Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD011368. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011368.pub2Cervantes J, Eber AE, Perper M, et al.The role of zinc in the treatment of acne: A review of the literature.Dermatol Ther. 2018;31(1):10.1111/dth.12576. doi:10.1111/dth.12576Kucharska A, Szmurło A, Sińska B.Significance of diet in treated and untreated acne vulgaris.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(2):81-86. doi:10.5114/ada.2016.59146Davern J, O’Donnell AT.Stigma predicts health-related quality of life impairment, psychological distress, and somatic symptoms in acne sufferers.PLoS One. 2018;13(9):e0205009. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0205009Craig WJ, Mangels AR, Fresán U, et al.The safe and effective use of plant-based diets with guidelines for health professionals.Nutrients. 2021;13(11):4144. doi:10.3390/nu13114144Tolino E, Skroza N, Mambrin A, et al.An open-label study comparing oral zinc to lymecycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(5):56-58.National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements.Copper: fact sheet for health care professionals.Gröber U.Magnesium and drugs.Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(9):2094. Published 2019 Apr 28. doi:10.3390/ijms20092094
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Podgórska A, Puścion-Jakubik A, Markiewicz-Żukowska R, et al.Acne vulgaris and intake of selected dietary nutrients - a summary of information.Healthcare (Basel). 2021;9(6):668. doi:10.3390/healthcare9060668Picardo M, Mastrofrancesco A, Bíró T.Sebaceous gland-a major player in skin homoeostasis.Exp Dermatol. 2015;24(7):485-486. doi:10.1111/exd.12720Podgórska A, Kicman A, Naliwajko S, et al.Zinc, copper, and iron in selected skin diseases.Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(7):3823. doi:10.3390/ijms25073823National Institutes of Health.Zinc factsheet for professionals.Zou P, Du Y, Yang C, et al.Trace element zinc and skin disorders.Front Med (Lausanne). 2023;9:1093868. doi:10.3389/fmed.2022.1093868Yee BE, Richards P, Sui JY, et al.Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis.Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14252. doi:10.1111/dth.14252Liu H, Yu H, Xia J, et al.Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD011368. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011368.pub2Cervantes J, Eber AE, Perper M, et al.The role of zinc in the treatment of acne: A review of the literature.Dermatol Ther. 2018;31(1):10.1111/dth.12576. doi:10.1111/dth.12576Kucharska A, Szmurło A, Sińska B.Significance of diet in treated and untreated acne vulgaris.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(2):81-86. doi:10.5114/ada.2016.59146Davern J, O’Donnell AT.Stigma predicts health-related quality of life impairment, psychological distress, and somatic symptoms in acne sufferers.PLoS One. 2018;13(9):e0205009. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0205009Craig WJ, Mangels AR, Fresán U, et al.The safe and effective use of plant-based diets with guidelines for health professionals.Nutrients. 2021;13(11):4144. doi:10.3390/nu13114144Tolino E, Skroza N, Mambrin A, et al.An open-label study comparing oral zinc to lymecycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(5):56-58.National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements.Copper: fact sheet for health care professionals.Gröber U.Magnesium and drugs.Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(9):2094. Published 2019 Apr 28. doi:10.3390/ijms20092094
Podgórska A, Puścion-Jakubik A, Markiewicz-Żukowska R, et al.Acne vulgaris and intake of selected dietary nutrients - a summary of information.Healthcare (Basel). 2021;9(6):668. doi:10.3390/healthcare9060668
Picardo M, Mastrofrancesco A, Bíró T.Sebaceous gland-a major player in skin homoeostasis.Exp Dermatol. 2015;24(7):485-486. doi:10.1111/exd.12720
Podgórska A, Kicman A, Naliwajko S, et al.Zinc, copper, and iron in selected skin diseases.Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(7):3823. doi:10.3390/ijms25073823
National Institutes of Health.Zinc factsheet for professionals.
Zou P, Du Y, Yang C, et al.Trace element zinc and skin disorders.Front Med (Lausanne). 2023;9:1093868. doi:10.3389/fmed.2022.1093868
Yee BE, Richards P, Sui JY, et al.Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis.Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14252. doi:10.1111/dth.14252
Liu H, Yu H, Xia J, et al.Topical azelaic acid, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, sulphur, zinc and fruit acid (alpha-hydroxy acid) for acne.Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;5(5):CD011368. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011368.pub2
Cervantes J, Eber AE, Perper M, et al.The role of zinc in the treatment of acne: A review of the literature.Dermatol Ther. 2018;31(1):10.1111/dth.12576. doi:10.1111/dth.12576
Kucharska A, Szmurło A, Sińska B.Significance of diet in treated and untreated acne vulgaris.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(2):81-86. doi:10.5114/ada.2016.59146
Davern J, O’Donnell AT.Stigma predicts health-related quality of life impairment, psychological distress, and somatic symptoms in acne sufferers.PLoS One. 2018;13(9):e0205009. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0205009
Craig WJ, Mangels AR, Fresán U, et al.The safe and effective use of plant-based diets with guidelines for health professionals.Nutrients. 2021;13(11):4144. doi:10.3390/nu13114144
Tolino E, Skroza N, Mambrin A, et al.An open-label study comparing oral zinc to lymecycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(5):56-58.
National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements.Copper: fact sheet for health care professionals.
Gröber U.Magnesium and drugs.Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(9):2094. Published 2019 Apr 28. doi:10.3390/ijms20092094
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