ZINC
Patient Counselling
How does it work?
Zinc may provide antimicrobial effect against a common causative agent of acne, P. acnes. It may also reduce sebum production and provide anti-inflammatory effects.
How do I take it?
20-50mg of elemental zinc may be taken 3 times a day, preferably with meals to reduce some of the stomach and intestinal side effects.
What are the side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Zinc may increase the risk of bleeding and should be monitored for. Consult a physician before use of zinc.
References:
1. Weimar VM, Puhl SC, Smith WH, tenBroeke JE. Zinc Sulfate in Acne Vulgaris. Arch Dermatol. 1978; 114: 1776-1778.2. Cochran RJ, Tucker SB, Flannigan SA. Topical Zinc Therapy for Acne Vulgaris. Int J Dermatol. 1985; 24: 188-190.
3. Brandt S. The clinical effects of zinc as a topical or oral agent on the clinical response and pathophysiologic mechanisms of acne: a systematic review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013; 12(5): 542-545.
Zinc may provide antimicrobial effect against a common causative agent of acne, P. acnes. It may also reduce sebum production and provide anti-inflammatory effects.
How do I take it?
20-50mg of elemental zinc may be taken 3 times a day, preferably with meals to reduce some of the stomach and intestinal side effects.
What are the side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Zinc may increase the risk of bleeding and should be monitored for. Consult a physician before use of zinc.
References:
1. Weimar VM, Puhl SC, Smith WH, tenBroeke JE. Zinc Sulfate in Acne Vulgaris. Arch Dermatol. 1978; 114: 1776-1778.2. Cochran RJ, Tucker SB, Flannigan SA. Topical Zinc Therapy for Acne Vulgaris. Int J Dermatol. 1985; 24: 188-190.
3. Brandt S. The clinical effects of zinc as a topical or oral agent on the clinical response and pathophysiologic mechanisms of acne: a systematic review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013; 12(5): 542-545.