Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Zinc Glycinate, also known as Glycine, Zinc Salt, is a compound formed by the combination of zinc and glycine. In the world of cosmetics, it is primarily recognized for its buffering capabilities. This means it helps to maintain the pH balance of cosmetic formulations, ensuring that products remain stable and effective over time.
The history of Zinc Glycinate in cosmetics is relatively recent, as the beauty industry continuously seeks out new and effective ingredients to enhance product performance. Zinc itself has been valued for its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties for centuries, but its combination with glycine—a simple amino acid—has opened up new possibilities in cosmetic science.
The production of Zinc Glycinate involves a chemical reaction between zinc oxide or zinc sulfate and glycine. This reaction results in a stable compound that can be easily incorporated into various cosmetic formulations. The process ensures that the beneficial properties of both zinc and glycine are retained, making it a valuable ingredient in skincare products.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Zinc Glycinate:
Zinc Glycinate acts as a buffering agent in cosmetic formulations. This means it helps maintain the pH balance of the product, ensuring it remains stable and effective over time. A balanced pH is crucial for the skin’s health, as it prevents irritation and maintains the skin’s natural barrier. By keeping the product’s pH in check, Zinc Glycinate helps ensure that the other active ingredients in your skincare products work optimally without causing harm to your skin.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Zinc Glycinate is generally considered safe for topical application in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, there are potential side effects that users should be aware of:
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of Zinc Glycinate during pregnancy and breastfeeding are lacking. Therefore, it is advisable for these individuals to consult a healthcare professional for further advice before using products containing this ingredient.
Adverse reactions to Zinc Glycinate are relatively uncommon, but it is always prudent to conduct a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
In terms of comedogenicity, Zinc Glycinate scores a 0 on a scale of 0 to 5, meaning it is considered non-comedogenic. This makes it suitable for individuals prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts, as it is unlikely to clog pores or exacerbate these conditions.
