Synonym(s)
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a white or yellow-white, loose, amorphous, mineral powder insoluble in water. Zinc oxide (ZnO) occurs in nature as a coarse-grained mineral (zincite). Zinc oxide is easily soluble in diluted acids with salt formation. Zinc oxide is monographed in Ph.Eur.7
Field of application/useThis section has been translated automatically.
Zinc oxide is widely used and appreciated in medicinal formulations for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory activity. In vitro, its wikrsamkeit against streptococci, staphylococci, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, CAndida albicnas and dermatophytes (Staubach P 2017).
It is used in shaking mixtures(Lotio zinci), zinc oil (Oleum zinci), solids and pastes(Pasta Zinci; Pasta zinci mollis), ointments (Unguentum zinci) and as Zinci gelatina the zinc glue dressing.
Zinc oxide as UV filter: Nanoparticulate zinc oxide (particle size between 20 - 60 nm) is transparent in the visible range of the light spectrum and acts as a physical filter against UV-B and especially UV-A rays of the sun. UV rays are absorbed and reflected by the zinc oxide particles. Nanoparticulate zinc oxide is used as a physical light protection in sunscreens. Physical UV filters are mainly used in sunscreens with sun protection factors > 25.
Cosmetics: In cosmetic formulations, zinc oxide is used as a swelling agent and as a UV filter.
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Under REACH, the effects of nanoparticulate zinc oxide on human health and the environment will be examined by Germany in 2016 as part of the substance evaluation. They have not been finally clarified.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer