Z

zinc

Fourth among all metals produced industrially (after iron, copper and aluminum), zinc’s largest use is as a protective coating for other metals. It’s also present in our bodies; for example, men’s hair contains 212 mg’kg of zinc, and women’s hair contains 116 mg/kg.

Zinc has a variety of pharmaceutical uses. Taking 20 mg a day is said to help some cases of acne, and children with a skin disease called acrodermatitis enteropathica (which causes lesions on the skin, poor nutrient absorption, bowel problems, and stunted growth) have also found relief with zinc supplements— taking 35 mg daily cleared up the skin and corrected the bowel problems.

In addition, zinc ointment is said to clear tip dandruff. It isn’t the best form of dandruff therapy, however, since it leaves a white, gummy residue in the hair.

zinc oxide

This white powder is used in ointments to protect the skin from ultraviolet rays and to treat diaper rash. It’s also used for its astringent properties, and as a pigment in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Occurring in nature as zincite, it’s a white solid that isn’t soluble in water.

zinc pyrcithione

This toxic chemical is found in gels, creams, talcum powder and shampoos at concentrations of 100 to 250 ppm. A cyclic thiohydroxamic acid, it’s a primarv skin irritant. Its trade names are Zinc Ornadine and Vancide.