Zinc Glycine

WHAT IS ZINC?

Zinc-Glycine is a mineral and synthetic complex. It harnesses the beneficial skin care properties of Zinc, which is grafted onto an amino acid, Glycine, to aid dermal penetration. It is not found in this form directly in nature but is synthetically reproduced to be nature-identical.

WHAT DOES ZINC DO?

There is some evidence that acne may be partially associated to a reduced zinc supply within the body. The reason is thought to be related to its ability to limit oil secretion in the pores. Zinc is also known to encourage the production of collagen fibres and elastin. Both help support the underlying structure of the skin, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging. Importantly, Zinc, as a Metallothioneine(!), has the ability to capture and reduce harmful oxidant radicals like the superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, so can reduce intracellular oxidative stress. Glycine is the smallest of the amino acids and acts as a highly effective trans-dermal carrier. By grafting Zinc onto Glycine, the ability of Zinc to be absorbed by the skin is much improved.

Studies have also shown that Zinc can have a positive effect on reducing hyper-pigmentation, by suppressing Melanocyte stimulating factors.  Melanocytes are found at the bottom layer of the epidermis and are the cells responsible for UV-protective Melanin, found in skin and hair, which can lead to age spots and freckles if over stimuilated (hormones, acne scaring, sun exposure). In summary, high Melanocyte activity leads to higher levels of melanin, causing skin to darken, so suppression of that activity can help the complexion remain even. Zinc similarly inhibits Tyrosinase activity, again in effect reducing the production of melanin.