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Zinc Oxide, Micronized

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Catalog Number CI-SC-0115
Product Name Zinc Oxide, Micronized
CAS 1314-13-2
Structure
Description Zinc oxide, from natural zinc ore, super-finely micronized. Particle size: <100 nanometer (0.1 micrometer), mean particle size is around 85 nm (depending on the method of measurement the mean particle size has also been found to be in the range of 30-55nm). Able to reflect & absorb UVA and UVB light.
Solubility Insoluble but dispersible in water and oils
Appearance Fine white transparent powder with minimal whitening, faint odor
Application Sun care & after-sun products, soothing skin care products, mineral makeup.
Storage Store light-protected at a cool and dry place
Composition Zinc oxide
Features And Benefits Reflects sunlight (UVB rays)Has soothing effects and can be used for skin irritationsHas some antimicrobial propertiesTransparent look with minimal whitening effect
GMO GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components)
HS Code 2817000000
INCI Zinc oxide
Manufacture Zinc oxide is produced from metallic zinc which is melted in a graphite crucible and vaporized at high temperatures (around 1000 °C). Zinc vapor reacts then with the oxygen in the air to give zinc oxide. The preparation of micronized (or nano-sized) zinc oxide is then carried out by the precipitation method where zinc salt solutions are reacted with alkali solutions.
Preservation Preservative-free
Purity Grade No purity grade applicable
Raw Material Source Metallic zinc
Uses Add preferentially to water phase, usually combined with organic sunscreens, typical use level 3-6% when combined with organic sunscreens, use level when used alone 3-20%. For external use only.
Product Overview

Zinc Oxide, Micronized, is extensively employed in dermatological and skincare applications due to its multifaceted properties. This high-purity white powder, recognizable for its adherence to United States Pharmacopeia and FDA standards, serves as an effective photocatalyst by absorbing and scattering UVA and UVB radiation, subsequently converting it into heat and light that revitalizes skin connective tissues. Known for its soothing and calming effects on sensitive skin, Zinc Oxide is available in various grades with primary particle sizes ranging from 25 to 120 nanometers, which influences its degree of aggregation. Smaller particles are particularly advantageous for achieving better transparency and superior attenuation of UVA and UVB rays. Notably, its low refractive index minimizes whitening concerns, especially when used at concentrations below four percent. While larger particle sizes may exhibit higher critical wavelengths in vitro, they can result in lower PFA in vivo. Commonly integrated into pharmaceuticals, Zinc Oxide functions as a skin protectant and astringent in products such as ointments, lotions, salves, and sunscreens, as well as dermatological treatments like diaper creams and anti-inflammatory solutions. Concentrations in skincare formulations typically range from 1 to 15%, allowing for versatile applications.

Case Study

Safety Assessment of Zinc Oxide as a UV Filter in Sunscreens

Kim, Kyu-Bong, et al. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part B, 2017, 20(3), 155-182.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a common ingredient in sunscreens. This work performed a comprehensive toxicological evaluation and risk assessment of ZnO considering exposure routes (skin, oral, and inhalation) and various product types (creams, lotions, sprays, and propellants). The main conclusions are as follows:
· ZnO is generally non-toxic, with low skin penetration and no carcinogenic potential. Studies on acute, sub-acute, and chronic toxicities in animal models showed that ZnO nanoparticles may cause mild to moderate effects at high doses. The No-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for ZnO was determined to be 268.4 mg/kg/day, with a maximum systemic exposure dose of 0.6 mg/kg/day for topical application. The lowest margin of safety (MOS) was calculated to be 448.2, indicating the safety of using ZnO in sunscreen.
· Taking into account other routes of exposure and product types, human data analysis showed that MOS values were within the safe range (MOS > 1) for skin exposure from cream and lotion, spray, propellant inhalation, and oral exposure of sunscreen. Therefore, the risk assessment concluded that ZnO can be safely used in cosmetic products within the current regulatory limits of 25%.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as Enhancers in Topical Drugs and Cosmetics

Narges Shokri, et al. Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2014, 13(2), 40-44.

Chemical enhancers can improve the transport of drugs through the skin. This work investigated the effect of ZnO and ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) used as enhancers of skin absorption of a model drug (ibuprofen, IP).
Evaluation methods and results
· The experiment involved the preparation of seven different formulations with IP, ZnO, or ZnO-NPs. Dermal absorption tests were conducted at 32°C using a diffusion cell with phosphate buffer saline (pH 7.4) and chicken skin. The cumulative amounts of IP, ZnO, or ZnO-NPs that permeated the skin were recorded over time.
· Results show that after 60 minutes, 90 mg of ZnO, 8 mg of ZnO-NPs, and 81 mg of IP passed through the skin. In the presence of different concentrations of ZnO and ZnO-NPs, the amounts of IP that permeated the skin varied. The formulation with 500 mg of ZnO-NPs showed the minimum amount of not permeated IP, while the formulation without any enhancer displayed the maximum not-permeated IP.
· In conclusion, ZnO and ZnO-NPs were found to enhance the transdermal delivery of IP, with ZnO-NPs showing a stronger effect. Increasing the concentration of ZnO-NPs further improved this effect, indicating that ZnO-NPs can be effective enhancers in dermal drug delivery formulations.

Custom Q&A

What is the benefit of using micronized zinc oxide in your skincare routine?

Micronized zinc oxide can give your skin a new lease of life, heal wounds, and treat rosacea.

What does zinc oxide do for your skin?

Zinc oxide restores skin oils, reduces large pores, and heals wounds. It can also help treat irritated, itchy, and chapped skin.

Why is micronized zinc oxide commonly used in sunscreen and sunblocks?

Micronized zinc oxide acts as a protective barrier that absorbs and deflects harmful UVA and UVB rays, preventing excessive heat from penetrating the skin.

Is zinc oxide sunscreen safe for all skin types?

Yes, zinc oxide sunblocks and sunscreens are safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, children, the elderly, and those with acne, rosacea, and eczema.

Is zinc oxide absorbed into the skin?

Unlike chemical ointments, zinc oxide in skincare products does not get absorbed into the skin. Instead, it creates a protective barrier.

What are the advantages of using zinc oxide sunscreen?

Zinc oxide dries quickly, leaves no white cast or greasy residue, and protects the skin from sunburn caused by extended sun exposure.

How long have titanium oxide and zinc oxide been used in cosmetic formulas?

Titanium oxide and zinc oxide have been used in cosmetic formulas for the past 10 years.

Why is sunscreen with micronized zinc oxide a better option than traditional chemical sunscreens?

Sunscreen with micronized zinc oxide is a better option as it is safe for all skin types, provides protection against UVA and UVB rays, and does not leave a white cast or greasy residue.

What should you look for in a sunscreen if you have irritation, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin?

Look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide as its active ingredient, as its astringent properties make it lightweight and suitable for daily use.

Can products used for diaper rash remedies contain micronized zinc oxide?

Yes, most products used for diaper rash remedies may contain micronized zinc oxide.

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