Zi
Zinc
Zinc PCA · Zinc GluconateSoothing
Trace mineral with mild astringent + antibacterial properties. Common pairing partner for niacinamide in oily-skin formulas.
What it does
Topical zinc reduces sebum production and has light antibacterial activity. Most evidence is for the niacinamide + zinc combination in oil-control serums. Standalone use is limited.
The evidence, graded
expert consensusNiacinamide and zinc both reduce sebum production through different mechanisms. They're commonly combined in oily-skin and acne-adjacent products.Bissett 2005 · Dermatologic Surgery ↗
Graded per the methodology: strong · moderate · emerging · expert consensus. A weak source on a strong claim gets the weaker label.
Also known as
zinc pca, zinc gluconate
Pairs worth knowing
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