Is zinc oxide toxic?

Is zinc oxide safe on your skin?

Zinc oxide is a mineral sunscreen ingredient that protects against ultraviolet radiation. It is also used in creams and ointments for minor burns and irritation. In the United States, FDA's proposed sunscreen update identifies zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as generally recognized as safe and effective for sunscreen use. That proposed update is not a completed final rule for all sunscreen ingredients.123

Mineral sunscreens with larger particles can look opaque on skin, giving sun protection an unwanted side job in theatrical makeup.3

What if you have sensitive skin?

A mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is an option if other sunscreen chemicals irritate your skin. Zinc oxide itself can still cause irritation or an allergic reaction. If a product irritates your skin, stop using it and contact a health care provider. Zinc and titanium sunscreens are suitable options for most toddlers and children. For a baby younger than six months, prioritize shade and protective clothing, and ask a doctor before applying sunscreen.245

Are zinc oxide nanoparticles toxic?

Nanoparticles are extremely small particles, less than 100 nanometres across. Smaller zinc oxide particles reduce the opaque finish, so the sunscreen can be less committed to its theatrical career. Their larger surface area relative to their volume can make them more reactive than larger particles. Laboratory research has identified potential cell and genetic damage, and particles have occasionally been observed in living skin layers, particularly after longer exposures. Long term exposure, particle stability and reactions to light remain safety questions. For everyday use, the practical guidance remains to use sunscreen as directed alongside other sun protection.36

How should you use zinc oxide sunscreen?

1. 1Choose a finished sunscreen labeled broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher and water resistant. Broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays; the ingredient name alone is not the product's protection rating.
2. 2Apply every day when going outdoors, including cloudy days and winter. Follow the label's application timing: general directions range from 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure.
3. 3Cover all exposed skin generously, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Remember your ears, neck, hands and tops of feet. About one ounce covers an average adult's body from head to toe.
4. 4Reapply at least every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Check whether the water resistance label specifies 40 or 80 minutes; no sunscreen is waterproof.
5. 5Use clothing, a hat and shade as well. Sunscreen is not a reason to spend longer in the sun.

Why do zinc oxide poisoning warnings mention fumes?

Most harmful zinc oxide exposures involve fumes at industrial sites, including welding and chemical work. These can cause metal fume fever, with fever, headache, metallic taste, chest pain and shortness of breath. Symptoms can start 4 to 12 hours after exposure, and serious lung injury is possible. Applying sunscreen to skin is not the same exposure as inhaling industrial fumes. Never spray sunscreen directly onto your face.25

What if someone swallows a zinc oxide product?

Zinc oxide has relatively low toxicity when swallowed, but ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or mouth and throat irritation. Contact poison control rather than trying to manage an overdose yourself. In the United States, call Poison Help at 1 800 222 1222; elsewhere, contact your local poison service. For an emergency, call your local emergency number. Have the container, ingredients, amount swallowed and time of exposure ready. After inhalation, move to fresh air immediately and contact poison control or a health care provider. For eye exposure, flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.2