Alchimia minerală în dermatologie: utilizarea zincului în produse cosmetice și în tratarea afecțiunilor dermatologice

Abstract

The cosmetic industry is not a recent phenomenon, but a long-standing practice dating back hundreds of years. Both women and men used cosmetics not only to enhance physical appearance, but also to convey social and cultural meanings. Many of the products used were based on copper minerals, copper oxide, charcoal obtained by burning almonds, ash, powders and other chemical elements such as arsenic, characterized by a particular toxicity. Due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-pigmentation and antibacterial properties, minerals are frequently integrated into cosmetic product formulations. They play a crucial role in addressing and treating various dermatological conditions, providing therapeutic benefits and helping to improve the health of the skin and other aspects of the body. The daily intake of minerals is necessary for the harmonious and continuous basic functioning of the human body. These minerals are divided into two important categories: macroelements (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium etc) and trace elements (iron, copper, selenium, cobalt, zinc etc). In the following paper, I have highlighted the benefits brought by Zinc and its compounds to the Cosmetic Industry. The trace element is frequently used in the composition of cosmetics, as well as in the treatment of dermatological conditions.