Skin Library
Y - Z
Y
Yeast is a single-celled microorganism commonly found in foods and beverages, where it plays a key role in fermentation converting carbohydrates into carbon dioxide and alcohol. This process is what gives bread its light, airy texture and beer its natural fizz.
When consumed as nutritional yeast, it provides helpful B vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants that hydrate, brighten, and support anti-aging.
In skincare, yeast is valued for its conditioning benefits. It is thought to help support hydration, soften the skin, and in some formulations may also gently aid exfoliation, helping to leave the skin looking smoother and more refined.
Z
Zinc is a white, slightly brittle metal but more importantly, it’s an essential trace mineral your body can’t do without.
It supports immune health, cellular metabolism, sense of taste and smell, and protein creation. Your body cannot make it or store it, so you need to get it daily in your diet. It is found in red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, whole grains, and seafood (like oysters). It gets to work behind the scenes helping to calm inflammation and keep oil (sebum) production in check. But when you are low in zinc, it shows on the skin and a little supplement support may be needed. Symptons can vary, but frequent infections, dry skin, rashes, and hair loss or brittle strands are potential signs.
It’s often a go-to supplement* for those dealing with breakouts, helping skin feel a little more under control. *Before taking any supplements, always consult a professional to get medical or nutritional advice.
Zinc oxide is an inorganic chemical compound with the formula ZnO. It appears as a white powder that does not dissolve in water and is best known and widely used for its protective, skin soothing powers.
In mineral sunscreens, it acts like a tiny shield, sitting on the skin’s surface to reflect UV rays and help prevent sun damage. Beyond sun protection, it’s also commonly used in creams and ointments to calm irritation, reduce inflammation and support the skin’s natural healing process. We tend to favour sun screens containing zinc oxide in our clinic