ZINC SULFATE
Commonly Found In
Overview
ZINC SULFATE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for ANTIMICROBIAL. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Zinc Vitriol, White Vitriol, Zinc(II) Sulfate, ZnSO4
Key Benefits
Studies suggest zinc sulfate may help provide astringent and sebum-regulating properties in cosmetics. Zinc's role in skin health may help support oil control in hair care products. It is used as an astringent in hair lotions and scalp care products.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; water-soluble zinc salt used as an astringent and antibacterial.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; physicochemical properties
Irritancy Rating
Low irritancy at cosmetic use concentrations; zinc sulfate has astringent properties and is used in anti-dandruff and oral care products. Mild eye irritation possible at higher concentrations; skin irritation is minimal at typical use levels.
Source: CIR Expert Panel safety assessment
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.1β1% (EU hair lotion limit)
Optimal
0.5β1%
EU Annex III/24 specifies 1% maximum for hair lotion applications.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
EU restricts zinc compounds (Annex III/24); for hair lotion, maximum 1%. Higher concentrations can be irritating.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/24) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU restricts zinc sulfate (Annex III/24) with category-specific maximum concentrations to prevent zinc overexposure. Hair lotion maximum is 1%. US and Japan permit use under general safety oversight for hair and oral care products.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 84 ingredients in the ANTIMICROBIAL category. 99% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Found in nature as the minerals goslarite (hydrated form) and zinkosite (anhydrous form). Also occurs in mine drainage water and in some natural springs.
π How It's Made
Produced by dissolving zinc, zinc oxide, or zinc carbonate in sulfuric acid. Also obtained as a byproduct of zinc ore processing and electrolytic zinc production.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for antimicrobial, antiplaque, astringent, oral care.
π¬ Other Applications
Used in agriculture as fertilizer and animal feed supplement, in medicine for zinc deficiency treatment, in rayon production, as a wood preservative, and in water treatment.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Zinc sulfate was known to ancient alchemists as 'white vitriol' and was one of the vitriol compounds that gave rise to the word 'vitriolic' meaning harshly critical
- β’ It's one of the WHO's Essential Medicines, recommended for treating diarrhea in children in developing countries
- β’ A single zinc sulfate supplement can contain more zinc than an entire day's recommended dietary allowance
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex III/24
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
- β’ CIR Safety Assessment of zinc sulfate
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
CALCIUM FLUORIDE
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
PHENOL
SODIUM FLUORIDE
Zinc White
ZINC OXIDE
BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is ZINC SULFATE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning ZINC SULFATE under III/24 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is ZINC SULFATE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits ZINC SULFATE (III/24) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is ZINC SULFATE used for in cosmetics?
ZINC SULFATE is primarily used for antimicrobial in cosmetic products. It also serves as antiplaque, astringent. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate ZINC SULFATE?
ZINC SULFATE is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to ZINC SULFATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on ZINC SULFATE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For antimicrobial, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.