Zinc in skin pathology and care

The document reviewed the role of zinc in skin health and its use in treating various dermatological conditions. It found that while severe systemic zinc deficiency can lead to skin problems that are reversible with zinc treatment, the effectiveness of zinc for other skin conditions is less clear. Topical zinc-pyrithione was somewhat effective in promoting hair growth in alopecia but less so than minoxidil, and oral zinc sulphate had an over 80% cure rate for persistent viral warts and was effective against cutaneous leishmaniasis, though its superiority is debated. Zinc showed no benefit in psoriasis treatment and was not linked to alopecia areata or telogen effluvium. Zinc oxide helped treat chronic skin ulcers, particularly in zinc-deficient individuals, by promoting skin healing, reducing inflammation, and preventing bacterial growth. The review also introduced the concept of local zinc deficiency, which may play a role in skin diseases despite normal serum levels. More research is needed to determine the proper guidelines for zinc use in dermatology.