Zinc preparations have been used for many centuries as effective remedies to help combat various skin problems. Zinc pyrithione is one of the modern forms of this substance, discovered in the 30s of the 20th century. Despite the relative “youth” of this component, it has been sufficiently studied. Its pharmacological properties have been studied in various studies, which made it possible to include this component in medicines. And, mainly, preparations with activated zinc pyrithione have found application in cosmetology and dermatology.
What other forms of zinc are there?
If we consider zinc in general, then in cosmetology and dermatology it is used in the form of bioactive salts. The substance is relatively safe for the body, therefore, in the production of medicines, skin care and decorative cosmetics, its use in high concentrations is allowed. Most often, for medicinal purposes, zinc salts are added to creams, shampoos, and lotions in a concentration of 0.1 to 5%.
Among zinc compounds, several of the most relevant ones, actively used in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, should be highlighted:
- Zinc oxide – provides care for aging skin, effectively soothes it, and restores protective functions. It is often included in products to protect the skin from sun rays, as it is considered a natural UV filter.
- Zinc sulfate - the main purpose of this substance is to protect the skin from inflammation and fight pathogenic microorganisms.
- Zinc pyrithione is used to treat various skin diseases, including seborrheic and atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and has pronounced anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Preparations based on activated zinc pyrithione have recently become especially popular. The relevance of these products is due to the fact that they help fight serious dermatological problems, being in some cases an alternative to external hormone-containing drugs for the treatment of skin diseases.
Activated zinc pyrithione - what is it?
Products containing this substance are often used in dermatology to treat many skin diseases. This is because zinc pyrithione has the following properties:
- active against many pathogenic microorganisms (streptococci, staphylococci), inhibits the growth and reproduction of fungi of the genus Malassezia spp., which support inflammation in diseases such as atopic dermatitis, seborrhea;
- has an anti-inflammatory effect;
- has a keratoregulating and seborrheic effect, which is especially important for seborrheic dermatitis;
- Helps relieve itching.
Zinc pyrithione exerts its effect at the site of skin lesions, but practically does not penetrate into the bloodstream. Preparations based on it are used in treatment regimens for skin diseases in both adults, including the elderly, and children over one year of age.
Iron
Iron deficiency anemia is present to varying degrees in 40–60% of women of childbearing age worldwide [2, 26]. And this despite the fact that iron is one of the most important microelements necessary for the normal functioning of the body’s biological systems. It is required for the function of respiration, hematopoiesis, and participates in immunobiological and redox reactions.
Causes of iron deficiency:
- insufficient intake of iron due to poor diet (for example, a vegetarian diet);
- decreased absorption of iron in the intestine (Fig. 3);
- dysregulation of vitamin C metabolism;
- excessive intake of phosphates, oxalates, calcium, zinc, vitamin E into the body;
- intake of iron-binding substances into the body;
- increased consumption of iron (during periods of intensive growth and pregnancy);
- iron loss associated with injuries, blood loss during operations, heavy menstruation, peptic ulcers, donation, and sports;
- dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
- various systemic and tumor diseases [21].
Given the high prevalence of iron deficiency in the population, it is difficult to talk about normal collagen synthesis in such conditions.
Contraindications and precautions
Activated zinc pyrithione preparations are usually very well tolerated by patients. The only exception in which these products are not recommended for use is increased individual sensitivity to individual components in the composition.
In the first days of treatment with a cream or aerosol based on activated zinc pyrithione, there may be a short-term burning sensation at the site of application. This is an absolutely normal phenomenon and does not require discontinuation of the drug.
Still, it is necessary to remember that preparations based on activated zinc pyrithione are medicinal, which means they must be used on the recommendation of a doctor.
Line of Skin-cap preparations with zinc-activated pyrithione
Among pharmaceutical products today it is not a problem to find drugs containing activated zinc pyrithione. As an optimal option for the treatment of atopic and seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and other skin problems, doctors often recommend the Skin-cap line of drugs. The product is available in several forms, which makes use as convenient as possible and allows you to include these drugs in the treatment regimen at any stage of the disease and for any form of dermatitis.
Vitamin D
The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the Russian population is more than 90% (50–60% in the world) [19]. This vitamin stimulates an increase in the synthesis of secreted proteins TGF-β (regulate the division and differentiation of various types of cells, including fibroblasts and keratinocytes) and their binding to receptors on the cell membrane. Therefore, when it is deficient, the activity of the TGF-β signaling cascades is disrupted, which impairs skin healing after any injury (including cosmetic manipulations). For example, during thermolifting, part of the collagen fibers of the dermis contracts and decreases in volume. This leads to an increase in the granularity of the basal layer and, with a sufficient amount of vitamin D, creates favorable conditions for the effect of its active forms on the expression of TGF-β1, which promotes the renewal of connective tissue [11].
Shampoo Skin-cap
Contains activated zinc pyrithione at a concentration of 1%. The main purpose of this drug is to prevent and treat:
- psoriasis of the scalp;
- atopic dermatitis localized on the scalp;
- seborrheic dermatitis;
- oily and dry seborrhea;
- dandruff and itching;
The shampoo is used externally. Before application, the bottle with the drug must be shaken well several times. The product is used in small quantities, applied to damp hair and scalp, distributed with massaging movements, after which it is necessary to rinse the hair with clean water. Next, the shampoo is reapplied, thoroughly foamed and left on the hair for 5 minutes. This is necessary for the active substances to have their effect. After this time, the product is washed off the hair and scalp with plenty of warm water.
When treating these skin diseases, shampoo is used 2-3 times a week. The duration of treatment depends on the disease. For example, shampoo with activated zinc pyrithione is used for psoriasis for five weeks, and for seborrheic dermatitis - for two weeks. During the period of remission of the disease and to prevent relapses, shampoo is used as a prophylactic agent at least 1-2 times a week.
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
Ascorbic acid plays a fundamental role in the body - there is virtually not a single physiological process in which it does not take part.
The role of vitamin C in the body Ascorbic acid in the human body affects many important biological processes:
- formation of corticosteroids (under stress, the level of vitamin C consumption by tissues and organs increases several times) [20];
- tyrosine metabolism (impact on the metabolism of thyroid hormones) [22];
- transformation of dopamine into norepinephrine [25];
- transformation of toxic vanadium compounds into harmless ones [23];
- conversion of folic acid into its active form - tetrahydrofolate [27];
- activation of acetylcholine receptor mRNA [20];
- formation of active forms of vitamin D (transport form [25(OH)D] - in the liver and active hormonal form [1,25(OH)2D] - in the kidneys), which serves as the main factor in the prevention of osteoporosis [20];
- potentiation of iron absorption [24].
The prevalence of vitamin C deficiency in the world, according to various sources, is 20–40% [14, 15].
Recently, many studies have been devoted to ascorbic acid and its bioavailability for the skin [9]. If there is a lack of vitamin C in the body, applying it to the skin will not have the expected effect, since it will not be able to compensate for the nutritional deficiency. The studies revealed that vitamin C accelerates wound healing, is involved in activating the synthesis of type I collagen (Fig. 5) and reducing oxidative stress parameters. No significant side effects were found when vitamin C was added to the diet during the studies conducted [5, 6].
Collagen synthesis depends on hormones, hormones, in turn, on the presence of metals, the absorption of metals depends on vitamins, and this chain can be continued for a long time, especially since it is closed.
Cream Skin-cap
This drug contains activated zinc pyrithione at a concentration of 0.2%. Intended for external use in adults and children over one year of age. Used to treat:
- psoriasis;
- atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis;
- seborrheic dermatitis;
- dry skin.
Apply the cream to the surface of the skin after thoroughly shaking the tube. It is necessary to cover the skin with a thin layer of the drug in areas where skin lesions are localized. Use the cream twice a day. Depending on the disease, the following duration of treatment is recommended:
- for atopic dermatitis – up to 3-4 weeks;
- for psoriasis – up to 4-6 weeks.
If necessary, a second course of treatment can be carried out 1-1.5 months after consultation with a doctor.
The cream has a light texture, is easy to apply, without leaving a greasy film, ideal for localizing rashes on the face and open areas of the skin. Auxiliary components in the cream have additional caring properties - moisturize and nourish the skin.
Aerosol Skin-cap
The concentration of activated zinc pyrithione in the preparation is 0.2%. The aerosol is used both for treating the scalp (a special nozzle is included), it is also suitable for treating so-called “wet” lesions, and is convenient for contact-free application, including in skin folds. Used externally to treat:
- psoriasis;
- atopic dermatitis, neurodermatitis;
- eczema
- seborrheic dermatitis.
Before use, the bottle with the drug must be shaken several times. Spray the aerosol onto the site of inflammation from a distance of about 15 cm, holding the bottle in a vertical position. If you need to treat the scalp, then for ease of application, it is recommended to use the special attachment included in the kit. In case of exacerbation of these skin diseases, the drug is sprayed 2-3 times a day, the duration of use depending on the disease is 1-1.5 months.
Zinc pyrithione activated in the treatment of atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, which is characterized by age-related rashes and is accompanied by severe itching.
As a rule, atopic dermatitis occurs in waves, that is, periods of exacerbation are replaced by relative calm and a decrease in the severity of symptoms.
An integral part of the treatment of atopic dermatitis is external therapy. For this purpose, patients with severe exacerbation can be prescribed hormonal drugs based on corticosteroids to relieve acute inflammation. The second stage, as a rule, prescribes more gentle drugs, for example, Skin-cap, as maintenance therapy. It is known that the microbiome of the skin of a patient with atopic dermatitis has its own characteristics - streptococci and fungi of the genus Malassezia, which abundantly colonize the skin, causing constant irritation and itching. That is why Skin-cap is especially indicated for atopic dermatitis - it not only helps eliminate inflammation and reduce itching, but also has an antibacterial and antifungal effect. Another difficulty in the treatment of atopic dermatitis is that the rashes differ in different periods - in younger children weeping rashes predominate, and in the older age group - peeling, dryness and thickening of the skin. The Skin-cap line offers various forms for any type of rash - the aerosol is convenient to apply contactlessly to wet areas, while the cream is suitable for dry rashes. The drugs are approved for use from 1 year of age and can be applied to any area of the skin without restrictions.
Zincteral
This zinc preparation is prescribed for the prevention and replenishment of microelement deficiency in the body. Zincteral is also indicated in the complex treatment of Wilson's disease, diabetes, alcoholism, skin diseases and parasite infections. Zinc is necessary for the proper metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates and is a component of many enzymes. You need to take 1 tablet of this zinc supplement per day. You can buy Zincteral in blisters (25 tablets in one) or in a jar (150 tablets).
Zincteral
TEVA, Ukraine
Zincteral is a zinc preparation that helps replenish the deficiency of this microelement in the body.
Zincteral is used to treat patients with zinc deficiency, which is caused by impaired zinc absorption, poor nutrition, and excessive loss of zinc by the body. from 283
495
- Like
- Write a review
Zinc pyrithione in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis, or seborrhea, is a chronic disease that is inflammatory in nature and is accompanied by the formation of inflammation and peeling in areas with a high accumulation of sebaceous glands. With seborrheic dermatitis, most often the foci of inflammation are located in the scalp, behind the ears, in the chest area, as well as in large skin folds (in the groin area, under the mammary glands). Inflammation in seborrheic dermatitis is maintained by the activation of Malassezia fungi on the skin.
Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis is prescribed in a comprehensive manner; for mild and moderate cases of the disease, medications with activated zinc pyrithione are necessarily prescribed. They help reduce inflammation and are active against fungi of the genus Malassezia, which makes it possible to achieve stable remission. Since foci of inflammation are usually localized in the scalp area, it is recommended to use a special medicated shampoo Skin-cap. It not only helps reduce itching and inflammation, but also eliminates the problem of dandruff, without affecting the color and structure of the hair.
Zincite
German zinc preparation with a high content of trace elements. Effervescent tablets must be dissolved in water. Reviews write that “Zinkit” has a mango aroma, but there is a slightly medicinal taste. Take 1 tablet of the drug per day immediately after meals. This supplement improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, stimulating the production of keratin and collagen, and stabilizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Reviews say that Zincit helps those who have been treating acne for a long time. In just a month, the skin condition noticeably improves.
Zincite
VERWAG Pharma, Germany
The drug Zinkit is a dietary supplement to the diet, an additional source of zinc for the purpose of correcting the diet.
from 302
588
- Like
- Write a review
Zinc pyrithione in the treatment of psoriasis
Psoriasis occurs in approximately 2-3% of people inhabiting the planet. This disease is inflammatory in nature, accompanied by the formation of psoriatic plaques, peeling and itching. Preparations with activated zinc pyrithione help eliminate all these manifestations and alleviate the course of psoriasis. Since psoriasis is an incurable disease, patients should always have a safe drug in their arsenal that can be used “as needed” to control the disease without the risk of serious side effects. One of these drugs is Skin-cap. It can be used as maintenance therapy for psoriasis on its own or after a course of hormonal therapy.
