Zinc Oxide Sun Block and the Chemical Compund
Zinc oxide is a compound with a chemical formula of ZnO. It is nearly water-insoluble but could dissolve in alkalis and acids. It naturally comes from mineral zincite. It is one of the ingredients of calamine solution. When the compound is mixed with 0.5% of iron oxide, it results to calamine.
Zinc oxide is an opaque compound as well as titanium oxide. These two substances are used in sunscreens for their ability to block UVA and UBV rays. Zinc oxide has been approved by Food and Drugs Administration for use in sunscreens. Various names and products of sunscreens sold nowadays contain this compound. It is recognized as an active ingredient aside from titanium oxide and other compounds that have the ability to block or absorb UVA and UVB rays.
Zinc oxide sun block creams, ointment and lotions can be found in various brands. Solbar Zinc sun block is one of the recommended sunscreen products in the United States. Another zinc oxide sun block product is Sportz Bloc Zinc Oxide Sun Block with SPF 20. This sun block product has flesh-toned zinc oxide and is PABA-free. It is hypo-allergenic, waterproof and sweat-resistant. It can block UVB and UVA rays as well as infrared rays. The product is developed for sportsmen but can be used by individuals with outdoor activities.
Some zinc oxide sun block products contain other ingredients beneficial to the skin. They may contain other active ingredients that won't interfere to the chemical substance of the compound. An axample would be Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF 30. It is a powder product that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. This product can be used even to individuals with acne-prone skin.
Zinc oxide sun block can be in cream, lotion, spray, ointment and powder. It can be combined with some natural ingredients that can bring moisture to the skin. Various sunscreens with zinc oxide have been formulated for sensitive skin and for babies.
Zinc oxide has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. It is one of the ingredients that can be suited for treating diaper rash. It is one of the active ingredients that can be looked for in antiseptic ointments.
The compound, zinc oxide is crystalline white. It turns white when exposed to ultraviolet light. This compound can be used in other industries aside from dermatology. It is one of the ingredients in paints, rubber goods and electronic materials. The compound can be mixed with other compounds for the creation of an object or another substance.
