Zinc Gluconate
Also known as Zinc Gluconate, Zinc di-D-gluconate, Rubozine, Zinc 2-gluconate
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
The CIR Expert Panel assessed 27 zinc salts (including Zinc Gluconate) in 2024 and concluded they are safe in cosmetics in present practices of use and concentration when formulated to be non-irritating (Scott et al., IJT 43(2 Suppl):3S-57S, 2024; PMID 38279815). Zinc gluconate is also GRAS for food use under FDA 21 CFR 184.1724 (dietary supplement, nutrient); this food-use designation is informative context only and does not constitute a cosmetic regulatory finding. Clinical trial evidence supports efficacy and tolerability in topical acne treatment: zinc gluconate was effective vs. inflammatory acne vulgaris in a multicenter RCT (Dreno et al. 2001, PMID 11586012), with adverse effects predominantly mild gastrointestinal in nature. Literature reviews confirm zinc's established role in dermatology with favorable safety profile at cosmetic concentrations (Cervantes et al. 2018, PMID 29193602). Note: The CIR Quick Reference Table (12/2017, revised 07/2018) does not contain a row for Zinc Gluconate individually; the operative CIR finding is the 2024 comprehensive zinc salts assessment.
Antimicrobial / anti-acne active: inhibits Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes) and reduces sebum-related free fatty acids via lipase inhibition
Cosmetic astringent: reduces pore appearance and controls excess sebum
Skin conditioning: zinc is an essential trace element with roles in wound healing and skin barrier maintenance
Deodorant function: antimicrobial action reduces odor-causing bacteria
CIR Expert Panel (2024) concluded Zinc Gluconate and 26 other zinc salts are safe in cosmetics in present practices of use and concentration
- · Mild gastrointestinal effects reported with oral administration; not a concern for topical cosmetic use
- · CIR qualified safety as 'when formulated to be non-irritating' — formulators should ensure final product pH and concentration are appropriate
Safety Assessment of Zinc Salts as Used in Cosmetics — Scott et al., Int J Toxicol 43(2 Suppl):3S-57S, 2024 (PMID 38279815); covers 27 zi…
“these 27 ingredients are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment when formulated to be non-irritating”— PubMed abstract, PMID 38279815