Zinc Gluconate

What zinc gluconate is

Zinc Gluconate is the zinc salt of gluconic acid, a sugar acid. It is a crystalline or finely dispersed powder that dissolves in water, sold as a raw material for topical cosmetic and personal care products. The supplier specification gives a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. It is one of the mildest ways to bring zinc into a water-based formula.

It is listed in our cosmetic actives section. For oily-looking skin and scalp products, compare it with zinc PCA, and pair it with niacinamide in balancing serums.

Cosmetic uses

The supplier specification lists skin care, hair and scalp care, deodorants and personal hygiene products, including products for oily, shine-prone and blemish-prone-looking skin and clarifying, sebum-balancing lines. In skin care it is used for a matte, balanced-looking complexion. On the scalp it suits shampoos and tonics for a fresh, balanced-looking scalp. In deodorants it supports a long-lasting fresh feel.

How to work with it

Weigh the powder and dissolve it in the water phase. It works in toners, gels, light emulsions, shampoos and roll-on deodorants. Check the final pH and keep it in a range that suits the rest of the formula. Use the level given on the CoA.

Choosing a zinc form

Zinc oxide is insoluble and mostly used as a mineral pigment and in barrier creams, while zinc PCA is a popular choice for oily-skin toners. Zinc gluconate sits between them: fully water-soluble, mild and easy to add to clear products. Brands sometimes use two zinc forms in one range, for example zinc gluconate in a toner and zinc oxide in a mattifying cream.

Quality

For cosmetics, check the heavy metal limits and microbiology on the certificate of analysis for each lot.

Storage

Store closed in a dry place.