Zinc Oxide, USP

Zinc Oxide, USP is a white, odorless, inorganic compound, primarily used for its protective, soothing, and therapeutic properties. It is a finely milled powder, meeting the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards, ensuring high purity and consistency. Zinc Oxide is commonly used in various pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care formulations, with a history of safe use in over-the-counter products.

Key Benefits

✔ Broad-Spectrum UV Protection – Zinc Oxide is a physical sunscreen agent that provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays, preventing sunburn and other skin damages caused by exposure to sunlight.
✔ Soothing and Anti-Inflammatory – It has natural anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for soothing irritated or inflamed skin, such as rashes, eczema, and minor burns.
✔ Wound Healing – Zinc Oxide is known for its ability to accelerate the healing of minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions by promoting skin regeneration.
✔ Antibacterial Properties – It exhibits mild antibacterial effects, making it useful in treating minor skin infections and reducing acne lesions.
✔ Protective Barrier – When applied topically, Zinc Oxide forms a physical barrier on the skin, protecting it from irritants, pollutants, and external environmental factors.
✔ Non-Comedogenic – Zinc Oxide does not clog pores, making it suitable for use in acne-prone skin treatments and cosmetics.

How to Use

• Incorporation: Zinc Oxide, USP is typically added to the final stages of formulation. For optimal dispersion, it can be blended with oils, emulsifiers, or other excipients, depending on the type of product being formulated.
• Usage Levels: The recommended usage level of Zinc Oxide in topical formulations typically ranges from 5% to 25%, depending on the desired outcome (e.g., sunscreen products usually require a higher concentration).
• Mixing Tips: Ensure Zinc Oxide is evenly dispersed within the product, as it can have a tendency to clump. A good mixing process will ensure an even distribution for consistent efficacy.
• Handling: Zinc Oxide should be handled with care to avoid inhalation, as fine powders may irritate the respiratory system.

Applications

Zinc Oxide, USP is widely used in a variety of personal care, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical products, including:

• Sunscreens and Sunblocks – As a physical sunscreen agent, it is frequently used in sunscreens to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
• Diaper Rash Creams – It is a key ingredient in diaper rash products, where its soothing and protective properties help heal and prevent rashes.
• Wound Care Ointments – It is used in ointments for minor cuts, abrasions, and burns to speed up the healing process.
• Calamine Lotion – Zinc Oxide is a critical ingredient in calamine lotion, providing relief from itching, irritation, and rashes.
• Acne Treatments – Due to its antibacterial properties, it is used in acne treatment formulations, helping to reduce acne lesions and inflammation.
• Cosmetic Formulations – Zinc Oxide is commonly found in mineral makeup and foundations, offering sun protection without causing skin irritation.
• Body Care Products – Used in body creams, lotions, and body powders to help calm skin irritations and create a protective barrier.

Zinc Oxide, USP is a versatile and beneficial ingredient for various personal care and pharmaceutical applications, valued for its safety, effectiveness, and broad range of therapeutic properties.