active

Zinc Oxide

Evidence tier

VERY_LOW

Evidence score

HQ studies

Total studies

Goal scores

Sensitivity

9 studies

Acne

9 studies

Hydration

9 studies

Barrier

9 studies

Anti Aging

9 studies

Sebum

9 studies

Brightening

9 studies

Interactions

synergy · Titanium Dioxide

Zinc oxide provides broad UVA/UVB coverage while titanium dioxide excels at UVB. Together they offer comprehensive mineral sun protection.

synergy · Ascorbic Acid

Topical vitamin C provides antioxidant photoprotection that complements the physical UV filter of zinc oxide. Reduces UV-induced free radical damage.

synergy · Ectoin

Ectoin protects against UV-induced Langerhans cell depletion and DNA damage, adding biological photoprotection to physical sunscreen.

antagonism · Ascorbic Acid

At formulation level: zinc oxide can catalyze vitamin C degradation over time. In separate products applied sequentially, this is less of a concern.

myth · Ascorbic Acid

Myth: "vitamin C makes sunscreen less effective." Vitamin C actually enhances photoprotection by providing antioxidant support alongside UV filters.

Citations

DOI:10.1111/j.1600-0846.2005.00105.x
Skin changes induced by a zinc oxide dressing compared with a hydrocolloid dressing in healthy individuals
DOI:10.1159/000098701
Human Skin Penetration of Sunscreen Nanoparticles: In-vitro Assessment of a Novel Micronized Zinc Oxide Formulation
DOI:10.2340/0001555571153156
Influence of two vehicles for zinc oxide on zinc absorption through intact skin and wounds.
PMID:22591031
In vitro testing of zinc oxide sunscreens.
PMID:19467034
Electrometric assessment of the effect of a zinc oxide paste in diaper dermatitis.
DOI:10.1097/asw.0000000000000064
Comparing the Efficacy of Zinc Oxide Versus Barrier Creams for Pressure Injury Prevention: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study
PMID:21122045
UV irradiation-induced zinc dissociation from commercial zinc oxide sunscreen and its action in human epidermal keratinocytes.
PMID:19646780