The ingredient, explained

Zinc Sulfate

Zinc Sulfate has published research relevant to the stated experimental context.

AntimicrobialAntiplaqueAstringentOral care

Explore connections

Ingredient guide

What it is and what it does

Zinc sulphate

About this ingredient: EU CosIng ingredient registry (via Open Beauty Facts taxonomy) ↗

Antimicrobial: A technical role associated with controlling microorganisms on skin.
Antiplaque: An oral-care role associated with controlling dental plaque.
Astringent: A technical role associated with tightening the skin surface.
Oral care: Supports cosmetic functions in the mouth, such as cleaning or deodorising.

Function definitions: European Commission ingredient function definitions (SCCNFP/0299/00, pages 16 to 20) ↗

Registry functions describe possible formulation roles, not results for a finished product. A dictionary entry is not an approval or a safety assessment.

A closer look

What the research shows

Human topical treatment study

Both groups improved, but zinc sulfate reduced melasma scores substantially less than hydroquinone; postinflammatory pigmentation occurred in 5.2% of the zinc group.

What this does not tell us

High-concentration melasma treatment in women; no vehicle control and no general cosmetic efficacy conclusion. Treatment lasted two months, with follow-up during sunscreen use; abstract does not define exact day counts.

Sources for this summary. PubMed 24237751 ↗

Research review checked Oct 1, 2026

Selective exact-identity review of 7 supplied local candidates and the targeted primary-source search recorded below. Bounded review, not a systematic search.