Zinc and Skin Health: Benefits & Potential Reactions

Zinc is an essential mineral in many foods of the American diet. Consumed in the right quantities, it can lead to healthier skin. You may need dietary supplements to get the recommended amounts listed by the National Institute of Health (NIH).

Skin Problems

• The NIH states that proper amounts of zinc can help cure common ailments, such as acne and boils, as well as more serious skin disorders like leg ulcers. It achieves this effect by helping to maintain the integrity of skin and mucosal membranes.

Function

• According to Zest for Life, maker of specialized vitamin supplements, zinc fights skin disorders effectively because of its role in the synthesis of protein and collagen, as well as basic cell division.

Dosage

• Jane Clark, nutritionist reporting for Dailymail.co.uk (MailOnline), states that 300 mg of zinc per day can lead to improved skin health, though specific amounts depend on age and sex.

Price

• Comparison shopping website NexTag.com lists single bottles of zinc for $10 to $30.

Warning

• Zinc toxicity results from excessive intake of the supplement, and the symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. The NIH publishes the recommended amounts of zinc for men, women and children.