Ingredient decoder

Zinc sulfate: is it comedogenic? What it does in skincare

INCI name: Zinc Sulfate

Acne verdict Acne helper

Helps acne-prone skin

  • ComedogenicNo published rating
  • IrritancyNo published rating

What it does

Astringent zinc salt that may help oily, breakout-prone skin.

  • Anti-acne
  • Antimicrobial
  • Antiplaque
  • Astringent
  • Oral care

Zinc sulfate in plain English

Zinc sulfate is a zinc salt with astringent and mild antibacterial properties. It has been studied for acne, mainly by mouth, and is used topically in some lotions and toners to help with oiliness and inflammation. Topical evidence is limited, and higher amounts can feel a little drying.

Is zinc sulfate bad for acne?

No. Zinc sulfate is on the helpful side for acne-prone skin and is not known to clog pores. Our checker groups it with the anti-acne ingredients.

Clean routine and still breaking out? The cause may be internal. See what is driving it

Also called

  • Zinc Sulfate
  • Zinc sulphate
  • Zinc sulfate heptahydrate

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Frequently asked questions

Is zinc sulfate comedogenic?

There is no published comedogenic rating for zinc sulfate, and it is not known to clog pores. It is used in products made for acne-prone skin.

What does zinc sulfate do in skincare?

In short: astringent zinc salt that may help oily, breakout-prone skin. In formulas it is used for antimicrobial, antiplaque, astringent and oral care.

What else is zinc sulfate called on ingredient labels?

On ingredient lists, zinc sulfate can also appear as Zinc sulphate or Zinc sulfate heptahydrate.

Sources