The Skin Formulary
IngredientsBrandsJournalShop
Browse Products

Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientHumectant / Skin Conditioning Agent

Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate

INCI: Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate

Zinc hydrolyzed hyaluronate is the zinc salt of hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid — produced by breaking hyaluronic acid into smaller molecular fragments via hydrolysis, then complexing them with zinc ions. The smaller hyaluronate fragments penetrate more readily into the upper skin layers where they bind water, while the zinc component contributes anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and sebum-regulating properties. It is approved for use in cosmetics under EU Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation (Regulation EC No 1223/2009).

Category

Humectant / Skin Conditioning Agent

Irritation Risk

Low

Skin Types

all skin types, oily, acne-prone, sensitive, dry, combination, anti-ageing concerns, redness-prone

What does this do in a formula?

deep hydration, moisture retention, improved elasticity and firmness, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial (inhibits Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis), skin barrier support, wound healing, antioxidant protection, oil control

Is Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate safe? Key considerations

Can Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate cause irritation?

Low Risk

Generally considered non-irritating and well-tolerated across all skin types, including sensitive skin. No EU Annex II (prohibited) restrictions apply; subject to Annex III approval conditions. Rare side effects such as transient redness or itching are possible in individuals with specific zinc or hyaluronate sensitivities.

Does Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Zinc hydrolyzed hyaluronate has no known photosensitising properties. No additional sun protection is required based solely on its presence in a formulation.

Is Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate safe during pregnancy?

Caution

Hyaluronic acid and its salts are not reproductive or developmental toxicants based on CIR safety assessment data. However, dedicated toxicology data for the zinc-complexed hydrolyzed form during pregnancy are limited. The zinc component is an essential mineral at trace levels but should not be used at high systemic doses in pregnancy. Topical leave-on products at 0.1–0.5% are considered low risk; always consult a healthcare provider.

How does Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate work?

Zinc hydrolyzed hyaluronate is the zinc salt of hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid — produced by breaking hyaluronic acid into smaller molecular fragments via hydrolysis, then complexing them with zinc ions. The smaller hyaluronate fragments penetrate more readily into the upper skin layers where they bind water, while the zinc component contributes anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and sebum-regulating properties. It is approved for use in cosmetics under EU Annex III of the Cosmetics Regulation (Regulation EC No 1223/2009).

Individuals with known zinc allergy or sensitivity to hyaluronate derivatives should review the considerations above before use.

Which products contain Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate?

Shop products that contain Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate