You may vaguely recall having seen zinc on the ingredients list of some or other product that you use, but never gave it a second thought. Or perhaps you’re fully aware of its versatility and multitude of uses. Some of its applications, either way, may well still surprise even those in the know. 

Zinc, in various compounds, can be used in myriad ways. Its uses in the world can be traced throughout history, even as far back as 1000BC. Today, it plays an important role in many aspects of our day-to-day lives ? from agriculture and building to wellness and x-ray machines, and much more in between. 

Simon Norton from the Africa Desk at the International Zinc Association (IZA) says that this natural element is commonly used to boost, heal and protect and is especially essential for all living things. He shares just four of the ways this magnificent metal is the superhero we didn’t even know we needed. 

• Cosmetics 

You’ll find zinc as an ingredient in more beauty products than expected, including in some serums, treatments, toners, moisturisers, masks, make-up and hair products. It’s known to be suitable for sensitive skin and can be used as a gentle acne treatment. It can even prevent dandruff and is used in some dental products to ensure fresh breath.

But perhaps it’s most well known and common use in the beauty world is in natural, mineral sunscreen. Zinc oxide works as a sunscreen by reflecting and scattering UV radiation, plus it’s non-comedogenic (which means it won’t block pores). It is broad spectrum, protecting the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

• Fertiliser 

Zinc is essential to fertiliser as it significantly boosts crop productivity and is a basic requirement for healthy plant life. Zinc in soil not only maximises crop yields, but enhances the nutritional value of the produce and, ultimately, improves farmers’ incomes. 

That said, zinc is a common micronutrient deficiency in agricultural soils. Zinc-based fertilisers are therefore essential to protect plants from environmental stresses and diseases that stunt growth and promote good rooting and crop yield.

So, if you’ve got a vegetable patch at home, look for a zinc-based fertiliser to mix in with your soil the next time you’re at the nursery. 

• Brass

This alloy metal is made of copper and zinc. Due to brass’s unique properties and versatility, it is one of the most widely used alloys on the planet. The proportions of zinc and copper within brass can be varied, creating a range of brass alloys with varying properties. These alloys are known for being easily formed (i.e. machinability), corrosion-resistant, and retaining high strength.

Brass is most widely used in applications that are decorative and mechanical like tap fittings, plumbing fittings, fasteners, tools, and appliance parts.

If you’re DIY shopping and keep an eye out, you’ll find zinc all over the place. 

• Medicine 

Aside from keeping ailments at bay, zinc is also used to treat a variety of conditions. There are many zinc-based cold and flu medicines (it is commonly thought to reduce the duration and severity of symptoms), including tablets, nasal sprays, and lozenges. 

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, zinc can help to relieve redness and irritation on the skin and even potentially reduce scarring. Topical and oral zinc treatments can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including rosacea and eczema. It’s also sometimes used to aid the treatment of depression. 

You can have too much of even a good thing, however. As with any medicine or supplement, zinc should always be taken in the recommended dose.