Zinc oxide (ZnO) is an inorganic compound common in food supplements, antiseptics, and skin care products. Industrially, it is synthesized through pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. It is also used as a bulking agent and a colorant in rubbers, plastics, ceramics, glass, and the cement industry. Â
In the United States, zinc oxide is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug product, like diaper rash creams for skin protection, and sunscreens as a broad-spectrum UV blocker.
CAS No.: 1314-13-2
Synonyms: Zincum Oxydatum, Zinc paste, Zinc Oxydum, Zinc oxide emulsion
| Physical Properties | |
| Chemical formula | ZnO |
| Molecular weight | 81.4 g/mol |
| Nautre | Amphoteric (reacts with both acids and bases) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, Soluble in acids and alkaline solution |
| Density | 5.6 g/cm³ |
| Chemical Properties | |
| Color | White or yellowish-white |
| State | Solid or powder |
| Melting point | 1974 °C |
| Boiling point | 2,360 °C |
| Taste | Bitter taste |
| pH | 6.95 |
It forms a barrier on the skin and protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation. It also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, leading to disruption of microbial cells and suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6, which in turn reduces erythema and irritation.
| Pictograms : |
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| Hazard Statements : | H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects |
| Precautionary statements : | P273 Avoid release to the environment Precautionary statements – response P391 Collect spillage Precautionary statements – disposal P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations. |
Zinc oxide (ZnO) is an inorganic compound common in food supplements, antiseptics, and skin care products. Industrially, it is synthesized through pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processes. It is also used as a bulking agent and a colorant in rubbers, plastics, ceramics, glass, and the cement industry. Â
In the United States, zinc oxide is available as an over-the-counter (OTC) drug product, like diaper rash creams for skin protection, and sunscreens as a broad-spectrum UV blocker.
CAS No.: 1314-13-2
Synonyms: Zincum Oxydatum, Zinc paste, Zinc Oxydum, Zinc oxide emulsion
| Physical Properties | |
| Chemical formula | ZnO |
| Molecular weight | 81.4 g/mol |
| Nautre | Amphoteric (reacts with both acids and bases) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, Soluble in acids and alkaline solution |
| Density | 5.6 g/cm³ |
| Chemical Properties | |
| Color | White or yellowish-white |
| State | Solid or powder |
| Melting point | 1974 °C |
| Boiling point | 2,360 °C |
| Taste | Bitter taste |
| pH | 6.95 |
It forms a barrier on the skin and protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation. It also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, leading to disruption of microbial cells and suppression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α and IL-6, which in turn reduces erythema and irritation.
| Pictograms : |
|
| Hazard Statements : | H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects |
| Precautionary statements : | P273 Avoid release to the environment Precautionary statements – response P391 Collect spillage Precautionary statements – disposal P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations. |
Zinc oxide forms a physical barrier on the skin, protecting it from UV radiation, and supports the healing of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It also helps to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
Zinc oxide forms a protective layer on the skin and may absorb excess oil, which helps acne-prone or oily skin. While it does not typically cause dryness, in some individuals, there may be a chance of drying if used without a moisturizer.
Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have shown antifungal properties due to their ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS can disrupt fungal cells, though zinc oxide is typically used as a supportive ingredient and not a primary antifungal agent.
Zinc oxide is generally considered safe for both topical and oral use. However, excessive or prolonged use, especially in high doses, can lead to side effects such as irritation or zinc toxicity.
Zinc oxide is a photostable, broad-spectrum UV filter that does not degrade in sunlight and forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface, protecting the skin from UVA and UVB rays.
Zinc oxide has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a good choice for acne products.
