Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide

Safety Notes

Broad spectrum UVA+UVB; mineral; well tolerated including baby skin; nano requires EU disclosure; check heavy metal impurities in COA

Function & Common Use

Function

UV Filter / Skin protecting

Category

UV Filter

Common In

Sunscreens, diaper rash creams, baby sunscreen, face powders

Origin

Mineral

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No formal limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

25% max UV filter EU; nano only in non-spray cosmetics

US FDA (21 CFR)

25% (OTC sunscreen monograph)

Korea (MFDS)

25% (sunscreen active)

Baby restriction: Nano ZnO: avoid spray format EU; verify non-nano for baby spray products

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zinc Oxide safe to use in skincare?

Zinc Oxide has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Broad spectrum UVA+UVB; mineral; well tolerated including baby skin; nano requires EU disclosure; check heavy metal impurities in COA

Is Zinc Oxide allowed in India?

Zinc Oxide is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No formal limit.

What is Zinc Oxide used for in cosmetics?

Zinc Oxide functions as: UV Filter / Skin protecting. It is commonly found in: Sunscreens, diaper rash creams, baby sunscreen, face powders.

Is Zinc Oxide safe for babies?

Zinc Oxide has baby/child restrictions: Nano ZnO: avoid spray format EU; verify non-nano for baby spray products. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted (OTC Drug)
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Regulated as a primary sunscreen active under TGA ARTG requirements when SPF claims are made; cosmetic use (non-SPF) subject to standard cosmetic framework
Canada (NHPID)
UV filter; may require Health Canada NPN registration if drug (sunscreen) claims are made; cosmetic use subject to Canada Consumer Product Safety Act

EU Annex: EU Annex VI

Identifiers

CAS1314-13-2
EC215-222-5

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