Zinc oxide is a very common cosmetic component that can be found in almost any cosmetic or hygiene product. Its widespread use is explained by the fact that zinc oxide acts as an absorber and reflector of ultraviolet radiation, as an antiseptic compound that promotes wound healing, a soothing and drying agent.
Contrary to rumors, zinc oxide is not a substance harmful to the skin or health: it is an inert mineral. Used in cosmetics along with titanium dioxide, zinc oxide is still considered a healthier choice - it does not carry the risk of skin irritation, and it can also be a potential skin soothing agent and a fairly powerful antioxidant.
Synonyms: Zinc oxide, Zinc Oxide Neutral, Micro zinc oxide, Zinc Oxide PI, Zinc-Glycine Complex, Rose oxide. Patented Formulas: CleanBio™-Zinc, ZINC LAURATE, ZINC MYRISTATE, Zinc Omadine®, Synpro® Zinc Stearate USP,
Effect of zinc oxide in cosmetics
Zinc oxide (ZnO) plays various roles in cosmetics - depending on the formula of the product or its release form, it can be both an active and an auxiliary component of the product. Here are the main functions of zinc oxide in cosmetics:
UV protection: most often this ingredient can be found in the composition sunscreen. Zinc oxide works as a sunscreen agent, reflecting and scattering ultraviolet radiation. Sunscreens containing this ingredient help reduce or prevent sunburn and premature photoaging of the skin, which is also an important factor in reducing the risk of developing skin cancer. Zinc oxide is the most common physical filter that absorbs ultraviolet radiation. Often used in such cosmetics in the form of nanoparticles. Can be combined in compositions with other sun filters and pigments.
Anti-inflammatory, protective And antimicrobial: Used as an antimicrobial in oral hygiene products and in anti-inflammatory skin care products. For this purpose, zinc oxide is also used in shampoos designed to combat dandruff. Among other things, zinc oxide is an excellent emollient and antiperspirant: by preventing the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, it prevents the formation of sweat odor.
As an excipient, zinc oxide is used in various cosmetics as a protective antioxidant and preservative, as a stabilizer and thickener, an additional component for whitening (used in decorative cosmetics as both a filler and a dye), and also as a lubricant. In semi-liquid forms, zinc oxide helps increase the final volume of the product.
Who is zinc oxide indicated for?
This ingredient does not have clear instructions - the range of its actions is so wide and varied that it will help in one aspect or another with any skin problem or solve any cosmetic problem. It has a calming effect and is therefore suitable even for sensitive skin.
Who is zinc oxide contraindicated for?
The harm about zinc oxide is nothing more than a myth. Of course, ingredient control is absolutely necessary: it is extremely important both for consumers and for the cosmetics industry as a whole. As a cosmetic ingredient, it can be considered safe - there is precise scientific evidence for this. Zinc oxide, which is used in cosmetics, is a very pure compound with a low content of heavy metals that meets the requirements of the US Pharmacopoeia and the European Union. Zinc oxide is contraindicated in case of individual sensitivity.
Cosmetics containing zinc oxide
Zinc oxide is used in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products, including color cosmetics, nail products, baby lotions, soaps, and powders. Zinc oxide can be found in almost any cosmetics or personal care product - in face cream, in shampoo, in makeup products (most often in mineral cosmetics), and in the formula of deodorant-antiperspirant... Zinc oxide is also often used in products to protect newborns. Most of this component is, of course, found in sunscreens and sprays. As an auxiliary ingredient it is present almost everywhere. Used as a white pigment in powders and foundations, as well as body powders. Also found in shampoos and perfumes as a fragrance. In cosmetic formulas it is present in a concentration of 5-25%. The maximum permissible concentration of zinc oxide in cosmetics in the United States is 25%, and in Japan its use is not limited.
Sources of Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide powder white, is an oxide of the metal of the same name. Zinc, a silvery metal with a moderate luster, is one of the most abundant elements on Earth. Zinc oxide is a compound formed from the combination of one molecule of the trace element zinc and one molecule of oxygen. It has the formula ZnO. Zinc oxide can be obtained through several methods.
One method, called the direct process, involves heating pure zinc metal at extremely high temperatures until it forms steam and mixes with air. The air is then cooled and the zinc oxide is captured in a special chamber. This results in a high quality ingredient. Zinc oxide is practically insoluble in water, but soluble in acids and bases.
When planning to buy a new cosmetic product, check its composition with this “black list” of ingredients.
Aluminum connections
Where used: antiperspirants/deodorants.
Provokes nervous disorders, brain disorders, Alzheimer's disease.
Bentonite
Where to use: face masks.
Intensively retains toxins and carbon dioxide, preventing the skin from breathing and releasing waste products. Suffocates the skin, stopping the access of oxygen. Most bentonites dry out the skin.
Cyclopentasiloxane
Where used: hair conditioners, shower gels, chemical solvents.
Causes disruption of the endocrine system, is capable of influencing biochemical processes at the cellular level, and can cause skin irritation. Research indicates the potential to cause cancer.
Diethanolamine
Used to form foam and thicken cosmetic preparations. In addition, it is used in dishwashing detergents due to its ability to remove fats. May dry out hair and skin, cause itching and allergic reactions. Toxic to the human respiratory system. May negatively affect development nervous system person.
Sorbitan isostearate PEG-20, PEG-40
Used in detergents and some creams. Restricted for use in cosmetics, proven toxic to skin, may cause allergies. Dangerous for injured and damaged skin.
Methylparaben
Used as a fragrance and preservative in various cosmetics. Toxic to human skin, causes endocrine system disruption, can cause cancer, and negatively affects the nervous system.
Parabens
Petroleum products, which are used as preservatives in cosmetics because they do not irritate the skin, are cheap, have no taste or smell, and do not allow products to deteriorate. They destroy enzymes and practically kill all living cells, and also act as xeno-estrogens (foreign estrogens). Experts say that they accumulate in the body, upset hormonal balance and increase the risk of breast cancer.
Mineral oils (vaseline, paraffin)
These ingredients are derived from petroleum. These are mixtures of liquid hydrocarbons separated from gasoline. Used in most cosmetics. Mineral oil forms a water-repellent film and locks moisture into the skin. The mineral oil film retains not only water, but also toxins, carbon dioxide, waste and waste products that are excreted through the skin. In addition, it prevents the penetration of oxygen. Mineral oil tends to dissolve the skin's natural oils and increases dehydration. It is recognized as the most common cause of acne and various rashes in women who use cosmetics containing mineral oils. It was discovered that during the production of mineral oils, carcinogens are present in them, and in strong concentrations.
Propylene Glycol
In cosmetics it is widely used in creams, moisturizers, because attracts and binds water. Causes allergic reactions and irritation, the formation of acne. MSDS data for propylene glycol indicate that skin contact may cause liver impairment and kidney damage. In cosmetics, a typical composition includes 10-20% propylene glycol (note that propylene glycol is usually one of the first in the list of ingredients of drugs, which indicates its high concentration). May cause cancer, and in large doses may affect the nervous system.
Heliotropin
Used as an ingredient in fragrances, masks, perfumes, and skin conditioners. May cause respiratory diseases; in high doses causes skin irritation. Capable of causing gene mutations. Not recommended for use in cosmetics.
Zinc Stearate
Used as an astringent, colorant in powders, anti-aging creams, eye shadows, sunscreens. Can accumulate in the human body and can cause allergic reactions.
Zinc Sulfate
Used in anti-aging creams, facial cleansers, face washes, eye drops.
It can affect the reproductive system, causes the formation of cancer cells, affects the human cardiac system, and can accumulate in the body.
Benzyl Benzoate
Used in creams, shower gels, conditioners, hair gels, lipsticks, and cleansers. Toxic to immune system, causes disruption of the endocrine system. Restricted for use in cosmetics.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
An ingredient similar in properties to SLS (an ester chain added). The number one ingredient in cleansers and shampoos. It is very cheap and thickens when salt is added. SLS reacts with other ingredients to form nitrates. May irritate the skin and is toxic to the body.
Triclosan
Used in deodorants as an antibacterial substance. Banned for use in cosmetics in some countries. Can cause endocrine system disruption, can act as a skin irritant, and can accumulate in the body. As a result of experiments, the ability to cause mutations in cells was discovered.
Many scientists and researchers will confirm that your body is under threat, and your enemy has disguised itself as your friend. Most modern personal hygiene products are fraught with dangerous enemies that, like a Trojan horse, secretly penetrate your body.
Here you will find a list of ingredients that are dangerous to our health or considered ineffective. Look carefully at the packaging of the cosmetic products you use.
- BENTONITE
- LAURAMIDE DEA
- PARABENS
- PERFUMES (FRAGRANCE)
- HELIOTROPINE
- ZINC STEARATE
- ZINC SULFATE
- TRICLOSAN
ALUMINUM COMPOUNDS
Used: antiperspirants/deodorants.
Provokes nervous disorders, brain disorders, Alzheimer's disease.
BENTONITE
Used: face masks.
Intensively retains toxins and carbon dioxide, preventing the skin from breathing and releasing waste products. Suffocates the skin, stopping the access of oxygen. Most bentonites dry out the skin.
CYCLOPENTASILOXANE
Used: hair conditioners, shower gels, chemical solvents.
Causes disruption of the endocrine system, is capable of influencing biochemical processes at the cellular level, and can cause skin irritation. Research indicates the potential to cause cancer.
DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA)
Used to form foam and thicken various cosmetic preparations. In addition, it is used in dishwashing detergents due to its ability to remove fats.
May dry out hair and skin, cause itching and allergic reactions. Toxic to the human respiratory system. May affect the development of the human nervous system.
LAURAMIDE DEA
A semi-synthetic chemical used to form foam and thicken various cosmetic preparations. In addition, it is used in dishwashing detergents due to its ability to remove fats.
May dry out hair and skin, cause itching and allergic reactions.
SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE PEG-20, PEG-40
Used in detergents and some creams.
Restricted for use in cosmetics, proven toxic to skin, may cause allergies. Dangerous for injured and damaged skin.
METHYLPARABEN
Used as a fragrance and preservative in various cosmetics.
Toxic to human skin, causes endocrine disruption, may cause cancer, affects the nervous system, interferes with gene expression (synthesis).
PARABENS
Petroleum products, which are used as preservatives in cosmetics because they do not irritate the skin, are cheap, have no taste or smell, and do not allow products to deteriorate.
They destroy enzymes and practically kill all living cells, and also act as xeno-estrogens (foreign estrogens)! Experts say that they accumulate in the body, upset hormonal balance and increase the risk of breast cancer. Recently, parabens were found in 18 of 20 breast tumors.
PERFUMES (FRAGRANCE)
Used in most cosmetics (gels, creams, lotions, shampoos, deodorants, hair sprays, etc.)
Cause allergies, can affect the nervous system, and are toxic to the body.
MINERAL OILS (vaseline, paraffin)
These ingredients are derived from petroleum. These are mixtures of liquid hydrocarbons separated from gasoline. Used in most cosmetics.
Mineral oil forms a water-repellent film and locks moisture into the skin. The mineral oil film retains not only water, but also toxins, carbon dioxide, waste and waste products that are excreted through the skin. In addition, it prevents the penetration of oxygen. Mineral oil tends to dissolve the skin's natural oils and increases dehydration. It is recognized as the most common cause of acne and various rashes in women who use cosmetics containing mineral oils. It was discovered that during the production of mineral oils, carcinogens are present in them, and in strong concentrations.
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
In cosmetics it is widely used in creams, moisturizers, because attracts and binds water.
Causes allergic reactions and irritation. Causes the formation of acne. MSDS data for propylene glycol indicate that skin contact may cause liver impairment and kidney damage. In cosmetics, a typical composition includes 10-20% propylene glycol (note that propylene glycol is usually one of the first in the list of ingredients of drugs, which indicates its high concentration). May cause cancer, and in large doses may affect the nervous system.
HELIOTROPINE
Used as an ingredient in fragrances, masks, perfumes, and skin conditioners.
May cause respiratory diseases; in high doses causes skin irritation. Capable of causing gene mutations. Not recommended for use in cosmetics.
ZINC STEARATE
Used as an astringent, dye in powders, anti-aging creams, eye shadows, sun protective creams.
Can accumulate in the human body and can cause allergic reactions.
ZINC SULFATE
Used in anti-aging creams, facial cleansers, face washes, eye drops.
It can affect the reproductive system, causes the formation of cancer cells, affects the human cardiac system, and can accumulate in the body.
BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE BHA
Used in lipsticks, eye shadows, sun protection products, cleansers, face masks.
It is immunotoxic, carcinogenic, causes disruption of the endocrine system, affects the human reproductive system, and causes disorders of the nervous system. Not recommended for use in cosmetics.
BENZYL BENZOATE
Used in creams, shower gels, conditioners, hair gels, lipsticks, and cleansers.
Toxic to the immune system, causes endocrine system disruption. Restricted for use in cosmetics.
SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS)
Derived from coconut oil, this inexpensive cleanser is widely used in cosmetic cleansers, shampoos, bath and shower gels, bath foamers, and the like. One of the most dangerous ingredients in hair and skin care products.
In industry, SLS is used for cleaning garage floors, engine degreasers, car washes, etc. It is very highly corrosive and really removes grease from surfaces. Recent studies at the University of Georgia Medical College have shown that SLS penetrates the eyes, as well as the brain, heart, liver, etc. and lingers there. This is especially dangerous for children, in whose tissues it accumulates in high concentrations. These studies also show that SLS changes the protein composition of children's eye cells and delays the development of these children and causes cataracts. SLS cleanses by oxidation, leaving an irritating film on the skin of the body and hair. May promote hair loss and dandruff by acting on hair follicles. Hair dries out, becomes brittle and splits at the ends. Another major concern is the association of SLS with carcinogenic dioxins and nitrates. SLS reacts with many cosmetic ingredients to form nitrosamines (nitrates). These nitrates enter the bloodstream in large quantities when washing with shampoos and gels, taking baths and using cleansers. Many companies often disguise their SLS products as natural by stating “derived from coconuts.”
SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES)
An ingredient similar in properties to SLS (an ester chain added). The number one ingredient in cleansers and shampoos. It is very cheap and thickens when salt is added.
SLES reacts with other ingredients to form nitrates. May irritate the skin and is toxic to the body.
TRICLOSAN
Used in deodorants as an antibacterial substance.
Banned for use in cosmetics in some countries. Can cause endocrine system disruption, can act as a skin irritant, and can accumulate in the body. As a result of experiments, the ability to cause mutations in cells was discovered.
The fact that consumers of cosmetic products have begun to think about the composition of modern cosmetics cannot but rejoice.
But for the most part, we are afraid of some mythical components and do not know which specific names in a cosmetic product should alert us. As a result, those who have “secret knowledge” about the existence of harmful ingredients either stop buying cosmetics altogether or continue to purchase familiar creams with an unknown composition.
But there is a third option, the choice of which does not involve either a complete rejection of industrial cosmetics or resignation to the harmful compositions of cosmetics. Just take two steps: spend a couple of minutes getting to know the harmful cosmetic components, and then purchase cosmetics that do not contain them. We will be happy to help you complete both of these steps.
And let's start by getting acquainted with those very harmful components that, in theory, should have a delightful effect, but in practice they may well harm both beauty and health. Having studied the information about them, you will be able to independently determine which cosmetics are harmful and which are not.
Mineral oils
As you know, one of the most important functions of cosmetics is to moisturize the skin. And many remedies actually cope with it, but not always correctly. Sometimes (quite often) cosmetics manufacturers delegate this function to mineral oils, which create a moisturizing effect by forming a film on the face that does not release moisture.
But if moisture cannot penetrate through this film, therefore, other substances remain on the surface of the skin, which are not always useful. For example, harmful creams with mineral oils do not allow toxins, waste products released through the skin, and carbon dioxide to evaporate from the surface of the skin.
And that's not all. Since it is impossible for substances that are on the surface of the skin to penetrate through the film, it means that the reverse process is also impossible - the penetration of useful components into the skin, among which it is primarily important to note oxygen. As a result, the harmful composition of face creams containing mineral oils interferes with the normal functioning of the skin, and even dissolves the natural sebum, which leads to dryness. Isn't it surprising, considering that mineral oils were originally intended for moisturizing?
Mineral oils are obtained from petroleum, and scientific research has shown that they may also contain carcinogens. And mineral oils end up in a bottle or tube with skincare or decorative cosmetics mainly as petrolatum, paraffin, and Vaseline.
Bentonite
Similar harmful properties It also has a natural mineral called bentonite. Despite its naturalness, it is also capable of forming an impenetrable film on the skin and creating all the prerequisites for its dehydration and the occurrence of inflammation (rash). But, unlike mineral oils, bentonite is usually added not to creams or decorative cosmetics, but to face masks.
Propylene glycol
And here they are harmful substances in creams such as propylene glycol, they have a slightly different principle of action. They are harmful not because they form a film (their purpose is not to close the outlet for moisture, but to attract it), but because they often act as components that cause irritation and allergic reactions.
Scientists claim that in certain doses, propylene glycol can have a negative effect not only on the skin, but also on the body as a whole. At the same time, the effects are very diverse, ranging from carcinogenic to effects on the nervous system.
Some zinc compounds
Scientific research has proven that the use of cosmetics with zinc stearate and zinc sulfate is extremely undesirable. The first of these chemical compounds (ZINC STEARATE) is found in anti-aging and sunscreen creams. And due to its coloring properties, zinc stearate is also sometimes found in some decorative cosmetics, such as powders and eye shadows. It is not recommended to choose cosmetics containing it, primarily due to the possibility of allergic reactions.
As for zinc sulfate (ZINC SULFATE), face creams containing it are harmful to the cardiac system. In addition, zinc sulfate can have carcinogenic effects.
And this component is contained not only in (anti-aging) creams. It is also added to facial cleansers and face washes.
Beware of deodorant!
Avoid deodorants and antiperspirants completely modern world it is unlikely to be able to in the near future. Using deodorant in the morning has become as common for most of us as drinking a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. After all, these remedies, with varying degrees of effectiveness, can eliminate bad smell sweat and even fight excessive sweating.
But what exactly are the components that make up most deodorants to perform their function? Usually these are aluminum compounds and triclosan, which, according to scientists, are not at all harmless.
For example, aluminum compounds are quite capable of provoking nervous disorders, Alzheimer's disease and all kinds of brain disorders. And triclosan, which usually acts as an antibacterial agent, has a negative effect on the endocrine system, accumulates in the body and even has the ability to cause cell mutation.
However, do not rush to give up the habit of using deodorant daily. It’s better to add a new habit - buying safe deodorants, which modern manufacturers present in large quantities.
They demonstrate good effectiveness thanks to such natural ingredients as ammonium-potassium alum (DeoNat deodorants), as well as various plant extracts known for their antibacterial, antioxidant and refreshing properties.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (famous SLS)
Sodium lauryl sulfate is one of the most famous components of detergents (shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers). But it is known that popularity comes with a minus sign, and this is just such a case.
Sodium lauryl sulfate is popular among manufacturers only because it is characterized by a very low cost, and at the same time it foams remarkably well. But along with lush foam and squeaky washed skin, you can get irritation, and with regular use, you can also get dryness, peeling, rashes, and dermatitis. Shampoos that contain this aggressive surfactant can cause dandruff and even hair loss when used for a long time.
So if you do not accept harmful substances in cosmetics, you should try to avoid such a component. This does not mean that you should completely switch to using folk remedies. It is quite possible to find shampoo without lauryl sulfate..
Surfactants in such a shampoo can be sodium cocosulfate (a much softer component than lauryl sulfate), decyl glucoside, and various mineral complexes.
This is a list of the most basic harmful substances in cosmetics, which in theory should have a positive effect on the skin and hair, but often contribute to the opposite result. But there are still preservatives, fragrances and other ingredients responsible for appearance cosmetics. We’ll talk about them later, but for now we invite those who are constantly wondering whether creams are harmful to plunge into the world of truly natural cosmetics.
Now you don’t need to waste time on lengthy and often unsuccessful familiarization with the compositions of cosmetic products in regular stores. Any product presented on the online store website is already a guarantee that getting to know the composition will be pleasant and friendly.
In addition, your purchase with us will always be pleasant and friendly. This includes both cosmetologist consultants and convenient display cases with reviews of cosmetic products, as well as gifts that we have already put in your basket.
Zinc is an important element for the proper functioning of the body, including the epidermal layer. It is necessary for the synthesis of enzymes involved in the production of hormones, for the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids.
This trace element is a powerful antioxidant that slows down the aging process and restores the skin. Zinc is involved in the production of prostaglandins, which in turn are responsible for regulating the excretory function of the epidermis, including sebum.
Usage of this substance for facial care and skin treatment dates back to ancient times. Even 5,000 years ago, the Egyptians were able to prepare an effective zinc ointment.
Nowadays, due to its wide range of applications, the use of zinc in cosmetics as an active ingredient is becoming increasingly popular, although its form has changed over the centuries.
The secret of the effectiveness and widespread use of zinc for skin
Cosmetic products based on this element primarily have antiseptic, antifungal and restorative properties, although the range of its capabilities is much greater.
Preparations containing microelements have high protective characteristics and are used to prevent aging and maintain skin health.
This is treated as harmful external factors(for example, sun protection effect), as well as internal processes. The substance is included in scrubs, masks, lotions and creams.
The products effectively cleanse pores, regulate the functioning of the sebaceous glands, and give the skin smoothness and a healthy color. In addition, zinc ions can have a positive effect on the structure of the skin.
The active component helps control the effects of hormones on the epidermis, which is especially important for the treatment of acne caused by this problem. It is a common ingredient in ointments aimed at treating serious skin lesions as it speeds up wound healing.
The use of cosmetics with zinc promotes the regeneration of cells damaged as a result of excessive exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation, thereby slowing down the process of photoaging.
You can read more about the causes and prevention of photoaging. The secret of the microelement's pronounced anti-aging effect lies in its ability to stimulate and support collagen production and fight the destructive effects of free radicals.
Thanks to such impressive capabilities, products based on it smooth out wrinkles, slow down the formation of new ones, and restore the firmness and elasticity of the epidermis.
Types of connections
The strength and effectiveness of zinc compounds depends greatly on their form. Its soluble compounds, unlike insoluble ones, act more intensely, but can cause irritation.
They are used primarily for the treatment of severe skin diseases where a gradual and prolonged release of this substance is required.
The element in cosmetic cosmetics for facial care is present in a bioavailable ionic form, which is introduced into the preparation in the form of a biologically active complex, usually one of the following forms:
- Zinc oxide (ZnO) is the most common, characterized by anti-aging, protective, astringent and soothing effects. Is a natural UV filter;
- zinc sulfate (ZnSO 4) - has an anti-inflammatory effect;
- zinc carbonate (ZnCO 3) – strong protective properties;
- Zinc undecylenate and pyrithione – antifungal effect.
Signs of deficiency in the body:
- inflammatory processes of the skin;
- acne;
- ulcers;
- wounds that are difficult to heal;
- pigmentation;
- dull complexion;
- the appearance of premature wrinkles, etc.
