Some research suggests that zinc supplements and topical creams that contain zinc may help relieve eczema by reducing inflammation and itchiness. However, more research is needed.

Zinc is an essential trace element that plays an important role in maintaining the health of your immune system and metabolism and promoting wound healing.

Some research suggests that zinc deficiency may be associated with eczema. Similarly, zinc may also help relieve symptoms of eczema, which may be due to its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties.

That said, the results are mixed. Most researchers agree that more research is needed to fully understand the possible link between zinc and eczema.

Keep reading to learn more about zinc for eczema treatment.

Several studies have examined the role of topical zinc medications and oral zinc supplements in eczema, as the skin contains the third-highest amount of zinc in any human organism.

Eczema is a skin condition that usually causes dry, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin’s surface. This may affect the function of your skin barrier, which is the outer layer of skin that protects you from environmental irritants.

Although the exact cause of eczema isn’t yet known, some research suggests that a weakened skin barrier is commonly associated with the skin condition.

A small 2024 study involving 23 adults examined the effects of applying a zinc lactobionate emollient cream twice daily for 56 days. The researchers found that this helped improve:

  • skin barrier function
  • transepidermal water loss (TWL)
  • sensitivity to irritants and allergens

This cream also helped moisturize the affected areas of skin, which is a key component of eczema management.

However, it’s important to note that this emollient contained lactobionate to help lower the skin’s pH, which is most likely responsible for these improved effects.

Zinc also plays a key role in wound healing. This may contribute to managing eczema flare-ups, as you might experience severe dry skin that could blister, ooze, and crack.

Some older studies also found that zinc may also play a role in managing eczema. For instance:

  • A 2008 study found that clobetasol cream with zinc sulfate was more effective for people with chronic hand eczema than a cream without zinc sulfate.
  • A 2013 study found that participants with atopic dermatitis who used zinc oxide-impregnated textiles improved their disease severity, itchiness, and subjective sleep better than those who didn’t use the textiles.

Topical zinc oxide has also been used to treat atopic dermatitis due to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Despite these positive findings, however, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before using zinc for eczema. They could help determine whether a topical with zinc is helpful for you or recommend an alternative treatment.

Eczema is often characterized by an itchy, dry rash. According to the National Eczema Society, itching is the most uncomfortable symptom for most people with eczema and one of the hardest to manage.

Some research indicates that zinc is sometimes used as a treatment option for itchiness related to allergies because it may inhibit mast cell degranulation, reducing the secretion of histamine, a compound that contributes to itch.

Calamine lotion, which contains zinc oxide as one of its primary ingredients, is a popular home remedy for treating eczema itch. Some research suggests that it may have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and moisturizing properties that could help manage eczema symptoms like itchiness, dryness, and scaling.

However, more research is needed on the association between zinc and eczema itch.

Zinc and sensitive skin

Whether or not you have sensitive skin, all skin products may potentially cause side effects.

If you’ve selected a new product containing zinc to try for your eczema, consider doing a skin patch test to identify any possible allergic reactions.

To do a patch test:

  1. Identify a small patch of skin. Pick an easily observed area, such as the inside of your arm or wrist.
  2. Apply a small amount of product to the selected area and wait 24 hours.
  3. If you develop skin discoloration, itchiness, hives, or a rash, don’t use the product again. If you observe no side effects, consider applying the product to other areas of your body.

Always read the label to determine if the product has any known allergens. Also, make it a point to follow any instructions on the label.

Some research suggests that zinc deficiency may be associated with atopic dermatitis, but the results are mixed.

The authors of a 2019 review noted people with eczema had lower mean serum, hair, and red blood cell levels of zinc compared to people without eczema. They also found that people with zinc deficiency had a slightly higher risk of developing eczema.

Similarly, two studies reported benefits of oral zinc supplementation for people with low zinc levels, but other studies found no benefits.

As such, more research is needed to understand the possible link between zinc deficiency and eczema.

Although rare in the United States, zinc deficiency is characterized by your body’s inability to produce new, healthy cells. It may cause symptoms like:

Zinc deficiency is typically reversed through dietary changes or supplements.

Zinc is an essential nutrient that supports various functions throughout your body. Research indicates that it could help your skin and eczema.

Talk with a dermatologist or other doctor to determine whether zinc, either as a supplement or a topical cream, is a good choice for your specific situation.