Zinc oxide

Zinc oxide – gentle protection against the sun’s rays

Zinc oxide is a chemical compound of zinc and oxygen. It is used in cosmetics products in loose white powder form. It provides a high level of coverage and has the ability to reflect visible light. It can also effectively absorb UV radiation. Zinc oxide was added to powders as early as the 19th century. It replaced lead and arsenic salts, two substances that were used up to then and which are extremely detrimental to health. Since zinc oxide is generally very well tolerated, it is also suitable for use in care products designed for sensitive and delicate skin.

About zinc oxide

INCI name (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients name): Zinc Oxide
Natural
Uses: Lip care, sunscreens, baby creams, powders
Special properties of zinc oxide: UV filter, binds moisture

Uses of zinc oxide

Zinc oxide is often used in medical ointments and wound protection creams for babies due to its anti-inflammatory properties. In cosmetics products, its main benefit is that it reflects UV radiation. Zinc oxide helps to create a kind of barrier which prevents or reduces the ability of the sun’s rays to penetrate the skin. This means that both UVA and UVB radiation is blocked. Zinc oxide is often used in combination with titanium dioxide to enhance the UV protection of the respective substances. The high level of coverage provided by zinc oxide gives many sunscreens their white colour.