Essential mineral involved in immune function, wound healing, and cell division.
How it works
Zinc is a cofactor for over 300 enzymes and plays roles in immune cell development, antioxidant defence, and protein synthesis.
Evidence-based uses
Zinc deficiency is linked to hair loss. Don't exceed 40mg/day without medical supervision.
Clinical Evidence
Study found significantly lower zinc levels in alopecia patients vs controls. Supplementation with 50mg zinc gluconate for 12 weeks improved hair regrowth in zinc-deficient participants.
Helps with acne and wound healing. Zinc picolinate is well-absorbed.
Clinical Evidence
RCT found 30mg/day zinc supplementation for 8 weeks significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions and improved overall skin appearance compared to placebo.
Zinc lozenges within 24 hours of cold onset may reduce duration.
Clinical Evidence
Meta-analysis of 16 RCTs found zinc lozenges (75mg+/day) taken within 24h of symptom onset reduced cold duration by 33% and severity by 40%.
Zinc acetate lozenges (75mg+/day) shortened colds by 33% on average. The effect was dose-dependent, with higher doses providing greater benefit when started within 24 hours of symptom onset.
Safety
Zinc significantly reduces absorption of penicillamine. Take at least 2 hours apart if both are necessary.
Zinc can reduce absorption of certain antibiotics. Take at least 2 hours apart.
Zinc can reduce absorption of fluoroquinolone antibiotics. Take at least 2 hours apart.
Compare prices
3 products compared across Australian retailers. Sorted by price per serve.
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| Product | Price | /serve | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best NOW Foods Zinc Picolinate 50 mg, 120 Veg Capsules iHerb | $19.90 | $0.17 | |
Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Zinc 60 Capsules Garden of Life | $19.99 | $0.33 | |
Thorne Thorne Zinc Picolinate 30mg Thorne | $22.00 | $0.37 |
Prices in AUD. Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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Also consider
Vitamin
Vitamin B7 that supports keratin production for hair, skin, and nails.
Mineral
Essential mineral for oxygen transport and energy production.
Protein
Structural protein that supports skin elasticity, hair strength, and joint health.
Herb
Berry extract that may help reduce hair loss in men by blocking DHT.
Head to head
Get a personalised dosage recommendation based on your age, weight, and health goals
Zinc has 3 known interactions. Check if it's safe with your medications.
Evidence Lab
Despite abundant sunshine, 1 in 4 Australians are vitamin D deficient. Here's why, who's most at risk, and what dose actually works.
Read article 🛡️Clinical trials show zinc can shorten cold duration by up to 33% — but only in certain forms and doses. Here's the evidence-based approach.
Read article 💇Biotin, iron, zinc, saw palmetto — which supplements have real evidence for hair loss, and which are just marketing? An honest review.
Read articlePrice drops, new products, and research updates for zinc supplements. One email per week, unsubscribe anytime.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement. Evidence ratings are based on peer-reviewed clinical research. Individual results may vary.