October 7, 2025, 9:08 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Many swear by zinc supplements for blemished skin. Some people also apply zinc ointment to blemishes and pimples, hoping they will disappear more quickly. But is this the right method? What should be considered with pimples, and is an internal or external treatment more effective?
Zinc ointment is a topical cream primarily composed of zinc oxide, used for wound healing and its antiseptic properties.1
For wound healing, a thin layer of the ointment is applied to the affected area. It’s important to clean the skin beforehand. The ointment does not absorb directly into the skin but acts on the surface. Therefore, it’s recommended to apply it before bedtime.
What Is the Attributed Effect of Zinc Ointment?
Zinc stimulates the immune system and is considered anti-inflammatory. “I like to prescribe zinc paste or zinc cream for wound healing,” explains Marion Moers-Carpi, a dermatologist from Munich. Zinc ointment can also positively affect sunburn and skin redness. It soothes the skin and can relieve itching.
However, caution is advised with pimples and acne. Zinc ointment can have a drying effect. On one hand, it can dry out pimples, but on the other, it can also dry out the rest of the skin. Generally, fatty substances—like ointments—should be used sparingly on the face, while moisture is very beneficial for facial skin, according to the dermatologist.
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What Is Better Than Zinc Ointment for Pimples?
Better than a fatty zinc ointment or cream for pimples is a thin emulsion with zinc or a zinc paste—both should be applied very thinly, recommends Moers-Carpi. When using zinc, the right consistency and form are crucial.
There is also an alternative to external application: Moers-Carpi recommends patients take about 30 to 50 milligrams of zinc per day, but not on an empty stomach. “Internally applied, zinc can be very beneficial for inflamed areas as it promotes wound healing,” explains Moers-Carpi.
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Possible Risks of Application
Since zinc ointments are greasy, they can overly dry out the skin—the effect is not limited to the treated pimple, which is generally not advisable for some skin types. If you still choose to use it, it’s important not to apply too much; a thin layer is sufficient, emphasizes the expert. It’s also important to note that zinc ointment can cause an allergic reaction.
Yes or No to Zinc Ointment for Pimples?
“Zinc is a good agent for drying out the skin and removing moisture. Therefore, zinc is generally not bad for blemished skin or acne,” says the dermatologist. However, skin care really depends on your skin type. For pimples or acne, the dermatologist does not recommend zinc ointment. An ointment is rich—it contains fat. For pimples or acne, fat is exactly counterproductive. It’s better to focus on moisture in skin care.