What is the recommended dosage for Zinc?

General: 8-11 mg/day (RDA); Acne Skin Health: 15-30 mg/day

What are the side effects of Zinc?

Potential side effects include: Nausea (especially on empty stomach), Copper depletion with long-term high-dose use, Metallic taste, Headache.

What is zinc and how may it support skin health?

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions relevant to skin, including cell division, wound healing, and immune function. Zinc has anti-inflammatory and anti-androgenic properties. Clinical studies show zinc supplementation may benefit acne, particularly inflammatory acne, and support wound healing.

What dosage of zinc has been studied for skin conditions?

Acne studies have used 30–90 mg of elemental zinc per day, often as zinc gluconate or zinc methionine. A landmark study showed 30 mg zinc gluconate daily was comparable to low-dose minocycline for inflammatory acne. The RDA is 8–11 mg. Supplementation above 40 mg daily requires medical supervision.

What are the potential side effects of zinc supplements?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and metallic taste, especially on an empty stomach. Long-term zinc supplementation above 40 mg daily can cause copper deficiency, leading to anemia and neurological issues. Zinc may reduce absorption of certain antibiotics and penicillamine. Take with food to minimize GI effects.

Zinc

mineral

Also known as: Zinc Picolinate, Zinc Gluconate, Zinc Citrate, Zinc Bisglycinate, Zinc Oxide

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About

Zinc is an essential trace mineral required for over 300 enzymes, supporting keratinocyte proliferation, wound healing, and immune function in skin. A systematic review and meta-analysis found zinc supplementation (30-45 mg/day for 8-12 weeks) significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesion counts compared to placebo.

How It Works

Essential trace mineral required for over 300 enzymes; supports keratinocyte proliferation, wound healing, and immune function in skin; cofactor for MMP enzymes involved in tissue remodeling; modulates sebaceous gland activity and has anti-inflammatory properties through NF-kB inhibition.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Wound Healing	A	18	1500	View →
Acne	A	12	900	View →

Side Effects

Nausea (especially on empty stomach)
Copper depletion with long-term high-dose use
Metallic taste
Headache

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Copper supplements (mutual absorption competition — separate by 2+ hours)
Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics (reduced antibiotic absorption)
Penicillamine (reduced absorption of both)
Iron supplements (competitive absorption)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Copper Selenium Silicon (Silica)

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 8-11 mg/day (RDA); Acne_Skin_Health: 15-30 mg/day
Forms: capsule tablet lozenge liquid topical
Natural Sources: Oysters, Red meat, Poultry, Beans, Nuts, Pumpkin seeds, Whole grains
Upper Limit: 40 mg/day (elemental zinc — higher doses may cause copper depletion)
Best Time: With meals to reduce nausea; avoid taking with iron or calcium

Evidence Summary

Wound Healing A

Acne A

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.