Zinc is known for having many different health benefits. As zinc is an essential mineral, our bodies don’t produce it. We can only absorb zinc into our body by consuming certain foods and supplements. Many people don’t know that zinc is an important mineral that helps against dandruff. It’s also equally important to know that a zinc deficiency can lead to dandruff or worsen your current dandruff situation.
In some cases, we don’t consume enough zinc through our diet. If that is the case, it is important to bring our zinc levels to optimal levels through supplements. Finding the best zinc supplements isn’t always that simple. I’ve reviewed the 10 best zinc supplements for dandruff in this article. In short, here are the best zinc supplements for dandruff. Continue further down this article for the full reviews.
Why Zinc is Important for Dandruff
Zinc is an essential nutrient that our bodies require to maintain good health. It also boosts our immune system and helps to keep bacteria and viruses at bay [1]. These aren’t the only ways that zinc can be beneficial to your health. It’s also useful in fighting and preventing dandruff.
Additionally, zinc is an important mineral in keeping your scalp healthy. A healthier scalp is less susceptible to dandruff, which is why zinc is so important. Therefore, maintaining a healthy balance of zinc in your body is effective in keeping your skin and scalp in a healthy state. Achieving this can reduce the likelihood of dandruff.
Our bodies don’t naturally produce zinc. For that reason, we must ensure that our diet contains enough zinc, or that we consume enough zinc through supplements. People who have a zinc deficiency, don’t consume enough zinc. In the long run, zinc deficiencies can also lead to you being more prone to dandruff or worsen your current dandruff situation [2].
When you don’t have enough zinc in your diet, you might experience itching and flaking on your scalp. Zinc can be used as both a preventative and as a treatment option. This means that you can either take it upon noticing that you have dandruff, or you can maintain healthy zinc levels to prevent dandruff from occurring.
If you decide to use zinc to treat your dandruff, you will have the choice between external and internal supplements. External options are mainly shampoos that contain zinc, while internal options are zinc supplements, multivitamins, and certain foods [3]. Supplements are a good source of zinc if you don’t consume enough through your regular diet. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of zinc supplements.
What Type of Zinc Supplements Are There?
Zinc in supplements can exist in different forms. They are usually found as zinc orotate, zinc picolinate, zinc gluconate, zinc, acetate, zinc oxide, and zinc sulfide [4]. Each type of zinc has a different absorption rate. Some forms are chelated, others aren’t.
Therefore, not all types of zinc are the same, so it’s good to understand which types of zinc there are. The most relevant zinc types are the following:
Zinc Orotate
Zinc orotate is a mineral salt that is found in our bodies. Each zinc molecule is composed of one zinc atom, as well as two molecules of orotic acid. Zinc orotate is neutrally charged and is a chelated form of zinc. It has one of the highest absorption rates in comparison to other forms of zinc.
Zinc Picolinate
Zinc picolinate is an acid form of zinc. Similarly to zinc orotate, it’s chelated meaning that it easily passes through the intestinal membranes. This facilitates our body to absorb zinc picolinate very efficiently. Zinc picolinate is one of the most effective forms of zinc and is therefore often found in supplements.
Zinc Acetate
Zinc acetate is a type of salt that is produced by the reaction of zinc oxide with acetic acid. It’s commonly found in certain zinc supplements and it’s also known to be more affordable than other forms of zinc. It’s relatively easily absorbed in our body.
Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is an inorganic compound (mineral) that is found in numerous zinc supplements. It’s also an ingredient in sunscreen as it’s safe and very effective. Zinc oxide is commonly found in topical products but can be found in supplements, as well. It usually has a lower absorption rate, but can still be effective.
Zinc Supplements for Dandruff Reviews
As zinc deficiencies can lead to more dandruff it’s vital to ensure that the zinc levels in your body are at an optimal level. Finding the best zinc supplement for dandruff is not easy, as the supplement market is often flooded with products. I’ve used many types of zinc supplements over the years and have compiled a list of the most effective ones.
1. Pure Micronutrients Pure Zinc
Pure Micronutrients Pure Zinc is a great zinc supplement that works effectively against dandruff. The supplement contains 120 capsules, each containing 25 mg (167% of DV) of chelated zinc.
Besides treating dandruff, it’s also good for boosting your immune system, improving skin and scalp health, repairing wounds and supporting bodily functions. This product contains no harsh chemicals and is free from magnesium stearate, preservatives, and artificial colors. It contains no fillers or binders and is non-GMO.
Each capsule features 25 mg of chelated zinc bisglycinate from albion minerals from TRACCS. TRACCS is a patented and clinically proven form of zinc that has an exceptionally high abortion rate. The high absorption is made possible through the binding of the zinc molecule to two molecules of an amino acid called glycine. Glycine acts as a protective barrier to the zinc as it travels through the stomach to the small intestines.
Conventional zinc supplements are usually suggested to be taken with food to avoid stomach aches. This supplement can easily be taken on an empty stomach. The most attractive feature of this form of zinc is that’s it’s highly absorbable in your body.
To the date, Pure Zinc is one of the most effective zinc supplements on the market that helps to treat dandruff.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 120 | 25 mg | 167% |
What’s Great:
- One of the best zinc supplement in its class
- It contains chelated zinc from TRACC
- Features a high absorption rate
- It can be consumed without food
- Glycine helps the zinc absorption
What’s Not So Great:
- Can cause slight stomach ache at times
2. Garden of Life Vitamin Code RAW Zinc
Garden of Life Vitamin Code RAW Zinc is an all natural multivitamin zinc supplement that contains 60 capsules. The supplement contains 30 mg of zinc (200% DV) and 60 mg of vitamin C (200% DV) per capsule. In addition, it also contains 166 mg of 75 soil based trace minerals and 17 organically grown vegetables, roots, bulbs, and leaves.
These ingredients are all organic and include apples, beetroot, broccoli, carrots, garlic, tart charities, spinach and many more. Due to the all-natural blend of ingredients, it’s 100% organic and vegan. It’s also gluten and dairy-free, non-GMO and contains no binders and fillers.
Vitamin C is an important vitamin for getting rid of dandruff. It helps to boost weak immune systems. Taking sufficient vitamin C can help prevent certain skin conditions that cause dandruff. Additionally, it can also help with blood circulation that provides all the required nutrients to your scalp.
Essentially, this supplement is a great way to treat dandruff through zinc and organic ingredients. It’s a great multi-vitamin that supplies your body the with required nutrients to help get rid of dandruff and provides you with many additional health benefits.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 60 | 20 mg | 200% |
What’s Great:
- It’s gluten and dairy-free
- Contains 75 soil based trace minerals
- Contains 17 organically grown vegetables
- Vitamin C helps with dandruff
What’s Not So Great:
- Can cause light stomach aches if taken at the wrong time
3. MegaFood Zinc
MegaFood Zinc
is one of the best zinc supplements on the market and it works great for getting rid of dandruff. One of the main reasons why this product works well is because of its ingredients. This product contains high amounts of healthy and organic vitamins and nutrients that not only help with dandruff but also improve the overall well-being of your body.
It contains vitamin A, B2, B6, B7, B12, D, and E. All of these vitamins are beneficial for maintaining dandruff free hair. In particular, MegaFoods Zinc contains good amounts of vitamin B6. This vitamin is an important ingredient, as it helps the body with zinc absorption. When your body doesn’t absorb enough zinc it can lead to dandruff [5].
It’s also important to note that the sources of zinc in this product are all organic and natural. These foods include carrots, oranges, brown rice, cabbage, broccoli, parsley, and beetroot, which are all 100% organic. This means that it’s suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Overall, Megafoods Zinc is a great zinc and multivitamin supplement that helps you prevent and fight dandruff. Dandruff is usually treated with shampoos, but never underestimate the impact that certain nutrients have. It remains as one of the most natural and effective zinc supplements on the market today.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Tablet | 60 | 22.5 mg | 205% |
What’s Great:
- Made from 100% organic food
- It’s suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Contains crutial vitamins for dandruff
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
What’s Not So Great:
- Marketed as a premium product
4. Thorne Research Double Strength Zinc Picolinate
Thorne Research Double Strength Zinc Picolinate
is a supplement that contains zinc picolinate. This type of zinc has been used in countless studies and has been proven to have a high absorption rate. This supplement has one of the purest forms of zinc picolinate that is available on the market. This manufacturer focuses on keeping the zinc natural and free of artificial substances.
Additionally, this supplement is designed to help with both growth and immune functions. It’s also effective at improving reproductive health and it’s definitely an important supplement to have in your diet even if you don’t have dandruff.
Of course, this zinc supplement can be beneficial for preventing or treating dandruff. Thorne Research Double Strength Zinc Picolinate is excellent at helping with zinc deficiencies, as each pill contains 30 mg of high-quality zinc.
It contains only natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any GMOs, artificial preservatives, stearates, wheat, rye, barley, dairy, soy, sugar, yeast, eggs or nuts. Thorne Research suggests that you try with small dosages first if you are consuming this zinc supplement for the first time.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 60 | 30 mg | 200% |
What’s Great:
- Partnered with top US sports teams
- Natural and free of artificial ingredients
- One of the best absorption rates
- Suitable for vegetarians
What’s Not So Great:
- Should be taken together with food to avoid cramping
5. Solaray Optizinc Supplement
The Solaray OptiZinc
supplement is another great option for anyone who is thinking of taking a zinc supplement. It’s made of a zinc monomethionine complex. This complex combines zinc and methionine to create one of the more optimal zinc products available. This type of zinc is also beneficial for hair strengthening and boosting the immune system [6].
One of the highlights of this supplement is that it is easy to absorb. Although our body can absorb other types of zinc, this particular one has a high absorption rate. This can result in a more effective zinc absorption process, which can lead to better health benefits. Zinc monomethionine is also retained in the body for a long period of time.
If you go with a supplement that is easy for your body to absorb, your body will be able to adjust to the change more smoothly. That’s why Solaray OptiZinc is very helpful if you are trying to treat dandruff. Even if you are just attempting to prevent dandruff, it can be helpful to have a supplement that is not too harsh on your body.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 120 | 25 mg | 167% |
What’s Great:
- Boosts immune system
- It has a good aboption rate
- Features long-term zinc retention
- It also contains vitamin B6
What’s Not So Great:
- Not purely zinc (also contains methionine)
- Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
6. Nature’s Potent Zinc
Nature’s Potent Zinc is a supplement that contains 100 tablets and is suitable for both men and women. This product not only helps in managing dandruff, but it also boosts the immune system, supports the body with antioxidants, improves the digestive system and heals wounded areas of the skin (especially the scalp).
This zinc supplement contains a mixture of zinc oxide and zinc citrate of 50 mg (333% of DV). Zinc oxide reduces inflammation and also helps to stimulate the production of new skin cells. This is beneficial for you if you suffer from dandruff, as parts of your scalp may be inflamed.
Apart from zinc it also contains dicalcium phosphate, microcrystalline cellulose, vegetable magnesium stearate, croscarmellose sodium, silicon dioxide and vegetable glycerin amongst a few others.
Nature’s Potent bottles their zinc supplement in FDA & GMP certified facilities which are located in the United States. They also guarantee a fast absorbing zinc with high potency, that has many other health benefits. This will help with dandruff if you have a zinc deficiency in your diet.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 100 | 50 mg | 333% |
What’s Great:
- Formula has high absorption and high potency
- It’s manufactured in FDA and GMP certified facilities
- Reduces inflammation and stimulates production of new skin cells
What’s Not So Great:
- May be too potent for some people
7. Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate
Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate is a zinc supplement that works well against dandruff if you have a zinc deficiency. The bottle contains 60 capsules, each capsule contains 15 mg (136% of DV) of highly absorbable zinc.
It also contains microcrystalline cellulose, leucine, silicon dioxide and a hypromellose capsule. A benefit of Thorne products is that they only contain flavors, colors, and preservatives that are derived from natural sources. It’s gluten and GMO-free and doesn’t contain any dairy products, nuts or other allergens. Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate is no exception to their manufacturing philosophy.
Generally speaking, zinc is not easily absorbed by our bodies. It’s easier absorbed when it’s chelated, as it’s attached to a mineral. Even though the dosage in this supplement to is only 15 mg, it comes as a chelated picolinate, which your body can easily absorb. If your dandruff is caused by a zinc deficiency, this supplement will get your zinc levels back on track to an optimal state.
The formula has been developed by a team of MDs, PhDs and NDs and Thorne Research have been proud partners of several US National team. That’s an impressive feat that not every company can claim.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 180 | 30 mg | 273% |
What’s Great:
- Formula has been developed by MDs, PhDs and NDs
- It’s gluten and GMO-free
- Proud partners of several US national teams
- It has a high absorption rate
What’s Not So Great:
- It has a relatively low zinc dosage compared to other supplements
8. Pure Encapsulations Zinc 30
Pure Encapsulations Zinc 30 is a zinc supplement in picolinate form containing 60 capsules. Each capsule contains 30 mg (273% of DV) of highly absorbable zinc. The supplement bottle contains a desiccant in order to maintain product freshness.
Much like the rest of the products on the top 10 list, this zinc supplement does not contain any wheat, gluten, egg or peanuts. In fact, it’s 100% vegan and free of GMOs, magnesium stearate, trans fats, artificial colors, and flavors.
Apart from zinc picolinate, other natural ingredients include hypoallergenic plant fiber, vegetarian capsule, and ascorbyl palmitate.
Zinc protects and supports your body’s natural immune system. Your body requires zinc for protein production and creating new skin cells, which are important when treating dandruff.
Additionally, maintaining healthy levels of zinc is important for proper digestion, metabolism, and reproduction. If you have a zinc deficiency Pure Encapsulations Zinc 30 can balance your zinc levels to an optimal level, and in turn reduce your dandruff.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 60 | 30 mg | 273% |
What’s Great:
- It’s 100% vegan and free of GMOs
- Contains only organic ingredients
- It has a good absorption rate
What’s Not So Great:
- Supplement mainly contains zinc with no other notable minerals or vitamins
9. NOW Zinc Picolinate
The NOW Zinc Picolinate
supplement is made of zinc picolinate, which is one of the most common forms of zinc that you will find in supplements. In addition to assisting with immune health, zinc picolinate is also useful in keeping your enzyme functions healthy [7].
This supplement comes in 50 mg capsules, which can be taken once per day. One bottle contains 120 capsules, so you can imagine that this product will last you a while. If you’re looking for a chelated or easily absorbable zinc supplement, this is a great choice for you. Because this is such a strong concentration of zinc, you may also take half a capsule per day. This will depend on your preferences and your body’s reaction.
The 50 mg dosage of zinc picolinate in this supplement is good for treating dandruff. As you may have noticed, the previous options contained mostly 30 mg of zinc each. 30 mg can still be effective in treating or preventing dandruff. It can be more efficient to use a greater strength of zinc if you’re trying to fight off dandruff and if you have a zinc deficiency.
Check the zinc levels in your body and ask your doctor about your recommended daily intake. All in all, the NOW Zinc Picolinate is an affordable and effective supplement to boost your zinc intake.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 120 | 50 mg | 333% |
What’s Great:
- Affordable pricing
- Stronger dosage compared to others
- Features a good absorption rate
What’s Not So Great:
- It may be too potent for some people
10. Spring Valley Zinc
The Spring Valley Zinc
supplement contains zinc in the form of zinc gluconate. This type of zinc is helpful in preventing illness because it strengthens the immune system. It can also aid in reproductive health and it’s also known to help with tissue renewal.
Each caplet contains 50 mg of zinc, and the standard bottle comes with 200 caplets. It’s recommended that you take one pill each day. It’s free of many common allergens, so you don’t have to worry about that, as well.
Due to its slightly higher concentration of zinc gluconate, this supplement is a great way to fight against dandruff. It’s beneficial in keeping your scalp and the rest of your body healthy. Overall, the Spring Valley Zinc supplement is a great choice for anyone who wants to start taking zinc in order to prevent dandruff. In addition to helping with dandruff, it can be beneficial to your general health.
| Serving Size | Servings | Zinc Content | % of Daily Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Capsule | 20 | 50 mg | 333% |
What’s Great:
- It promotes antioxidant activity
- Stronger dosage compared to others
- It’s easy to swallow
- It’s good for pregnancy
What’s Not So Great:
- May be too potent for some people
- Shouldn’t be taken on an empty stomach
How Much Zinc Should I be Taking?
The amount of zinc you should take depends on various criteria that only a doctor should officially advise. However, you may also refer to the chart below to get an idea of general daily zinc intake [8]:
- Males (14 years and older): 11 mg/day
- Females (19 years and older): 8 mg/day
- Pregnant women (14 – 18 years): 13 mg/day
- Pregnant women (19 years or older): 11 mg/day
- Lactating women (14 – 18 years): 14 mg/day
- Lactating women(19 years or older): 12/mg/day
For people who have a zinc deficiency the daily recommended intake values are different. If you have a zinc deficiency, it is suggested to take 2 – 3 times the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for zinc for a 6 month period. For people who have severe zinc deficiencies, it’s suggested to taking 4 – 5 times the RDA for a period of 6 months.
It can be hard dealing with dandruff on a daily basis. Zinc is an important mineral to ensure that you keep dandruff at bay. If you have severe dandruff or are diagnosed with a severe deficiency in zinc, be sure to consult a doctor.
How to Use Zinc Supplements
Please note that you should follow the directions of each respective supplement carefully. The directions are on the label of each supplement box, located on the back. Please follow them precisely unless directed otherwise by a doctor or healthcare professional. For a general direction, the following guide shall only serve as a reference.
Zinc supplements come in tablets or capsules. The serving size is most commonly 1 tablet and a general direction is to consume 1 tablet a day. It’s best to consume each tablet or capsule with water for easy swallowing. Preferably, consume the zinc capsule or tablet with a meal. Some forms of zinc can also be taken on an empty stomach if it’s indicated on the label. They can generally also be taken after meals, and are known to be most effective 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal [9].
If at any point the consumption of zinc supplements cause an upset stomach, you can take the supplement during a meal. If you experience any discomfort or if you plan not to follow the instructions on the supplement bottle, please seek professional advice from a doctor or healthcare professional.
Conclusion
It’s vital to consume the right amounts of zinc to ensure that your body functions properly and that your dandruff is dealt with. Finding the best zinc supplement for dandruff isn’t easy. After having tested countless amounts of zinc supplements my all-time favorite is Pure Micronutrients Pure Zinc. It’s a highly effective zinc supplement that is easily absorbed by our bodies.
Pick a zinc supplement that works for you and ensure that you check the zinc dosage that you require in order to get your zinc levels to an optimal level. If you are unsure or require further help, do not hesitate to seek advice from a doctor or medical professional.
This list was created to help people find the right zinc supplement in their journey to overcome dandruff. I will continue to update this list on a regular basis and hope that you have enjoyed the article.