The benefits of zinc for hair.

Zinc is a metallic particle, symbolised as "Zn" and holds the atomic number 30 in the periodic table of elements. In metallurgy, it is a component of brass (zinc and copper), but it is also present in the human body, albeit in small quantities (around 2 to 3g), distributed within the muscles, bones, liver and skin. It is classified as a trace element, that is to say, a component essential for the proper functioning of the body. Zinc plays a role in DNA synthesis, facilitates the production of certain proteins, and contributes to the balance of cognitive functions. A deficiency in zinc could exacerbate inflammatory phenomena.

It should be noted, this trace element cannot be stored by the body. Therefore, to reap its benefits, regular consumption of zinc-rich foods is essential. The food richest in zinc is the oyster, but there are others such as the offal, red meat, wholemeal bread and eggs.

When applied topically, zinc provides several benefits to the skin and hair.It is included in the composition of certain hair care products in various forms, such as zinc gluconate and zinc PCA.

Zinc and its derivatives are primarily recommended for the health of the scalp, which directly influences the condition of the hair. Two main actions are associated with the external application of zinc .

• Combatting dandruff.

  Zinc possessespurifying andantibacterialproperties. It aids in regulating sebum production, thus preventing the excesses that lead to oily and unbalanced scalps. Consequently, it helps to limit the occurrence of oily dandruff, and is therefore found in many hair care products targeting this issue.

  It should be noted that it is primarily the zinc pyrithione (INCI: ZINC PYRITHIONE) that was found a few years ago in the main anti-dandruff hair treatments. However, this active ingredient is now highly controversial ( suspected mutagen, potential reproductive toxicant, potential aquatic ecotoxicity) and above all banned in Europe (Annex II/1670 of the cosmetic regulation). Instead, zinc-PCA or zinc gluconate are now more commonly used, which are much gentler and pose no risks to health and the environment.

• Limiting itchiness.

  Zinc possesses soothing properties. It acts as a regulator of interleukin 1-alpha, a mediator of inflammation. Thus, it alleviates scalp discomforts such as itching, tingling, tightness, and other unpleasant sensations.

Due to these virtues, zinc is a component of ourpurifying hair serum. This product effectively eliminates oily dandruff in the long term. It therefore contains 4% of zinc PCA combined with nettle extract, also known for its purifying and sebum-regulating properties. In addition to this, it contains essential oils of peppermint andeucalyptus globulus which, thanks to their antibacterial and antifungal virtues, help to purify the scalp by fighting against the proliferation of microorganisms responsible for dandruff.

It should be noted that oral supplementation of zinc, either through dietary supplements or simply through a diet rich in zinc (oysters, eggs, offal), effectively combats hair loss and alopecia.