Zinc Oxide
A cosmetic ingredient used as antimicrobial, bulking, colorant in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Zinc oxide (CI 77947)
What does it do?
Zinc Oxide is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antimicrobial
kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms
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Bulking
adds volume or mass to a product without significantly changing its other properties
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Colorant
imparts colour to a cosmetic product
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Light stabilizer
protects a cosmetic formulation from degradation by UV light, extending its shelf life
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Oral care
used in oral-hygiene products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental gels
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Skin protecting
helps shield skin from external environmental factors
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Uv absorber
absorbs ultraviolet light, used in sunscreens and to protect formulations from UV degradation
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Uv filter
absorbs or reflects ultraviolet radiation, the active ingredient class in sunscreens
EU regulatory status
Zinc Oxide is listed in Annex IV of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.
Frequently asked questions
What is Zinc Oxide?
Zinc Oxide is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Zinc oxide (CI 77947)
Is Zinc Oxide allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Zinc Oxide is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Zinc Oxide do in cosmetic products?
Zinc Oxide is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, bulking, colorant, light stabilizer, oral care, skin protecting, uv absorber, uv filter.
What is the CAS number of Zinc Oxide?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Zinc Oxide is 1314-13-2.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 12/08/2020