Guide
Zinc — for immunity and skin
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Zinc is a trace element important for immune function, wound healing, the skin and many enzyme processes. It is usually obtained from food, but supplements are popular, especially for skin problems and in the cold season. Below we explain what it is for and when a supplement makes sense; choose an ingredient to see available products and prices. Long-term intake of high doses can upset the balance with other minerals.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
What zinc is for
Zinc takes part in immune function, in cell division and wound healing, in the health of the skin, hair and nails, and in the action of many enzymes. It is obtained from food — meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, seeds, wholegrains. With a varied diet, deficiency is rare.
When a supplement makes sense
A zinc supplement can be useful with a suspected or proven deficiency, for certain skin complaints (e.g. acne) on judgement, or with an increased need. Zinc is popular for colds, but the data on its effect are mixed. It does not replace a balanced diet and is not a universal remedy.
Forms and how to choose
Zinc comes as tablets, capsules, lozenges and in combination products (e.g. with vitamin C or selenium). Different salts (e.g. zinc gluconate, citrate, picolinate) differ in content and tolerability. Choose a dose according to need and take it with food to reduce stomach discomfort.
Caution with intake
High doses of zinc over a long time can impair copper absorption and affect immunity, and on an empty stomach can cause nausea. Do not exceed the recommended doses without reason and do not combine several zinc products without accounting for the total amount. When taking antibiotics or other medicines, ask a pharmacist about the timing.
Commonly used active ingredients
Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.
Related categories
Products with current prices
Lowest prices from online pharmacies in this guide's categories — cheapest first.
ДЖАНКАР ЛАКОЧИСТИТЕЛ 100МЛ
ДЖАНКАР · 100МЛ
ВИТАМИН Б12 ампули 100 гами 1 мл. * 1
SOPHARMA · 12 ампули
БИЛКА КРЕМ ЗА РЪЦЕ И НОКТИ ЧЕРВЕНО ВИНО 65 МЛ
БИЛКА · 65 МЛ
МОКРИ КЪРПИ СМАЙЛ 15БР АНТИБАКТЕРИАЛНИ С ВИТАМИНИ
МОКРИ · 15БР
БЕБЕВИТА / BEBEVITA ПЮРЕ ЯБЪЛКА И БАНАН 190ГР 1001
БЕБЕВИТА · 190ГР
ЛАВЕНА / LAVENA САПУН МОЯТА ПРИРОДА С МАСЛИНА X 75ГР
LAVENA · 75ГР
Frequently asked questions
Does zinc help with a cold?
The data on zinc for colds are mixed — some studies suggest a slight shortening of the duration when taken soon after symptoms start, but the results are not clear-cut and depend on the form and dose. Zinc does not prevent a cold and does not replace other measures.
Does zinc help with acne?
Zinc is sometimes used as an addition for acne, alone or in combination, but the effect is individual and usually moderate. It is not a main treatment for acne. For marked or persistent acne, the approach is determined by a dermatologist, not just a supplement.
When is it best to take zinc?
Zinc is usually taken with food to reduce the risk of nausea, unless the pack states otherwise. If you also take antibiotics or iron or calcium supplements, a gap between them may be needed — ask a pharmacist about the right timing.
Can I take zinc for a long time?
Long-term intake of high doses of zinc can upset the balance with copper and have unwanted effects. If a longer course is needed, it is sensible to consider medical judgement and a reasonable dose. Do not take several zinc products at once without accounting for the total amount.
What are the signs of a zinc overdose?
Taking very high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and with a prolonged excess, copper deficiency and other effects. If an excessive intake is suspected, stop and consult a pharmacist or doctor. Follow the dose on the pack.