The clinical effects of zinc as a topical or oral agent on the clinical response and pathophysiologic mechanisms of acne: a systematic review of the literature

Brandt et al., 2013 | J Drugs Dermatol | Systematic Review

Citation

Brandt Staci. The clinical effects of zinc as a topical or oral agent on the clinical response and pathophysiologic mechanisms of acne: a systematic review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013-May;12(5):542-5

Abstract

This article reviews the published literature about the efficacy of oral and topical zinc as treatments for acne vulgaris. The medical literature was systematically reviewed to identify relevant articles. Each published study was assessed for pathophysiologic results and the quality of the clinical evidence the study provided based on Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT) criteria. Finally, the body of evidence for using oral or topical zinc in the treatment of acne was assessed, again using SORT criteria. A SORT strength of recommendation of B (inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence) appears to be appropriate for both oral and topical zinc. The preponderance of evidence suggests zinc has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and that it may decrease sebum production.

Key Findings

The preponderance of evidence suggests zinc has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and that it may decrease sebum production.

Outcomes Measured

inflammatory markers

Population

Field	Value
Population	See abstract
Sample Size	See abstract
Age Range	See abstract
Condition	See abstract

MeSH Terms

Acne Vulgaris
Administration, Cutaneous
Administration, Oral
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Anti-Inflammatory Agents
Dermatologic Agents
Humans
Sebum
Zinc

Evidence Classification

Level: Systematic Review
Publication Types: Journal Article, Systematic Review
Vertical: zinc-skin

Provenance

PMID: 23652948
DOI: (not available)
PMCID: Not in PMC
Verified: 2026-04-09 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09