Zinc deficiency and its effect on the skin

One of the most important minerals for the skin that comes from the diet is zinc. It forms part of the barrier between the internal and external environments of the body and regulates a number of physiological processes. In order for it to perform its functions, it must be consumed daily with food and, in some situations, also through supplementation.

1. The physiological importance of zinc
2. Zinc requirements
3. Zinc deficiency and skin condition

The physiological importance of zinc

Zinc is one of the trace elements, but despite its requirement being expressed in milligrams, it is very important for the entire body. It participates in the formation of DNA, the creation of proteins and in processes related to the growth, development and maturation of the body, the functioning of the immune and endocrine systems, and the senses of smell and taste. Zinc also plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin.

This element is a component of the main cells that form the outer ‘coating’ of the body, i.e. keratinocytes. Large amounts of zinc are found in skeletal muscles and bones, which also shape the human body.

Zinc requirements

Depending on many variables, an adult's body needs about 8 mg of zinc per day for women and 11 mg for men. Detailed recommendations regarding the level of consumption of this element depend on the stage and rate of development of the body, the level and type of physical activity, nutritional status (e.g. biotin, iron) and type of diet, lifestyle hygiene (e.g. alcohol consumption), gastrointestinal tract condition and absorption efficiency, as well as physiological conditions such as pregnancy, lactation or certain diseases.

Deficiencies can occur as a result of insufficient consumption of meat and offal, certain dairy products and eggs, as well as seafood, white beans, buckwheat, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and nuts, which are rich in this mineral. It should be remembered that, as in the case of iron, animal sources of zinc are also more easily absorbed. Certain genetic disorders and intestinal inflammation can also have a negative impact on zinc metabolism.

Zinc deficiency and skin condition

A depletion of this element in the body may be associated with a deterioration in the quality of the tissues it builds, including the skin, and especially the epidermis. Its deficiencies may negatively affect the risk of occurrence and course of, among others, pellagra, erythema necroticum migrans, or alopecia areata. In addition, they can weaken the body's response to skin damage and slow down wound healing.

When the current diet is unable to meet the demand and there are factors limiting absorption, it is worth considering enriching the diet with a zinc supplement. This may be helpful in counteracting skin disorders caused by zinc deficiency, but also other symptoms, including a weakened immune system and hormonal disorders.