Zinc is used in countless number of items in some form or another. Another benefit of Zinc is its usage in Soaps. Zinc helps treat various skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, fungus etc…
Zinc in the form of ‘Zinc Pyrithione’ is majorly used in bathing soaps due to its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties along with its ability to cure skin diseases like seborrheic dermatitis (skin disorder that affects face, scalp and torso). Most notably, it has a suppressing effect on Malassezia Fungus (commonly considered the main culprit in various skin diseases). Its other medical applications include treatments of psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, fungus, athletes foot, dry skin, sensitive skin, atopic dermatitis, rashes, tinea, and vitiligo. It also helps fight many pathogens from the Streptococcus and Staphylococcus genera.
Along with soaps, Zinc Pyrithione is best known for its use in treating dandruff, thus making its use imperative in anti-dandruff shampoos. The American shampoo brand ‘Head & Shoulders’ actively uses and promotes Zinc Pyrithione as its major ingredient, introduced in the year 1961.
Cosmetics alone are not the only applications for Zinc Pyrithione. Due to its low solubility in water (8 ppm at neutral pH) and ability to protect against mildew and algae, Zinc Pyrithione is used in outdoor paints and proves to be an effective algaecide. Also, Zinc Pyrithione slows down the process of decomposition done by ultraviolet lights, thus providing years of protection even against direct sunlight. Zinc Pyrithione is also used as an antibacterial treatment for household sponges. Hindustan Zinc is India’s only and world’s leading Zinc-Lead-Silver Producer..
Article by- Pavan Kaushik, Head – Corporate Communication, Hindustan Zinc