Mineral zinc salt with gluconic acid – an anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating component. Common in acne products.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating with in vitro acne data.
Zinc Gluconate is a zinc chelate with gluconic acid, an oxidation product of glucose. Compared with zinc oxide and zinc pyrithione, the chelated form is water-soluble and well tolerated in leave-on products. Where it is used. Creams and serums for oily and combination skin, acne treatments, deodorants, and products for mature inflammatory skin. Use concentrations 0.1-2%. In Spain it appears in La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+, Avène Cleanance, and ISDIN Acniben. Oral zinc supplements have a Cochrane-supported evidence base B in acne (Yee 2020), but topical and systemic zinc are not interchangeable. Mechanism. The zinc ion inhibits 5-alpha-reductase in sebaceous glands, reducing sebum output – relevant in seborrhea and acne. It suppresses Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus growth by interfering with metal-dependent microbial enzymes. Zinc also limits keratinization at the follicular opening, lowering the risk of comedone formation. Evidence base. Topical zinc gluconate has evidence base C (open-label studies, in vitro data). Mintel registry data and reviews (Dreno 2018) show benefit as an adjuvant in acne formulations. It does not work as monotherapy – it functions as part of combinations with salicylic acid, niacinamide, and retinoids. Safety. Low irritation potential, non-comedogenic, non-sensitizing. CIR (2020) confirmed safety at current use levels. Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding for topical use; systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. Practical notes. In an effective acne INCI list, zinc gluconate sits at position 3-7. Compatible with niacinamide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and retinoids on alternate days. Direct combination with high-concentration vitamin C is best avoided – inert salts may precipitate. For severe acne (Cunliffe grade II-IV), topical zinc is supportive, not primary; retinoids and systemic prescription drugs form the backbone of treatment.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Zinc Gluconate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Zinc Gluconate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Mineral zinc salt with gluconic acid – an anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating component.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Zinc Gluconate. It may also appear as: Zinc Glyconate, цинка глюконат.
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Suitable for