Zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid are antifungal agents that are often used together to treat skin infections. Zinc undecylenate is a zinc salt derived from undecylenic acid, which is an unsaturated fatty acid.
Both of these compounds work by preventing fungi from growing on the skin. They’re commonly found in over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, and powders. This article will focus on the powder form of these medications, specifically zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid powder.
What is undecylenic acid?
Let’s take a closer look at the chemical makeup of undecylenic acid and how it works.
Chemical properties and structure
Undecylenic acid is an 11-carbon monounsaturated fatty acid. That means its structure is a chain of 11 carbon atoms with one double bond at the delta-9 position (a specific location on the chain).
It comes from castor oil, made by breaking down ricinoleic acid through a process called pyrolysis.
Because it’s lipophilic (attracted to fats), undecylenic acid can get into fungal cell membranes more easily.
How it fights fungus
Undecylenic acid stops fungus from growing by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and interfering with its metabolism.
It’s known to be effective against common dermatophytes (the fungi that cause skin infections) like Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum.
Zinc Undecylenate: Properties and Benefits
Zinc undecylenate is a compound commonly found alongside undecylenic acid in antifungal treatments. But what exactly is it, and why is it included?
Chemical Properties and Formation
Zinc undecylenate is the zinc salt of undecylenic acid. It’s created by combining undecylenic acid with a zinc source. As a powder, it’s typically fine, and either white or off-white in color. It doesn’t dissolve in water.
Enhanced Antifungal Action
Zinc enhances the antifungal properties of undecylenic acid in a couple of ways. Zinc itself has astringent and antiseptic qualities. It may also act to inhibit fungal enzymes, further disrupting the growth and spread of fungal infections.
The combination of zinc and undecylenic acid creates a synergistic effect. This means that the blend is often more effective than either ingredient would be on its own. The two ingredients work together to combat fungal infections more comprehensively.
Additional Benefits of Zinc
Zinc plays a vital role in skin health. It supports wound healing, helping the skin to repair itself. It also helps to reduce inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial in treating fungal infections, where inflammation is often a contributing factor to discomfort.
How are zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid powder used in medicine and cosmetics?
Zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid powder are used to treat fungal infections, in cosmetic applications, and more. But does chlorine kill fungus?
Fungal infection treatment
You can use this powder to treat athlete’s foot (tinea pedis). The powder is applied directly to the affected area to help dry and protect the skin.
You can also use it to treat ringworm (tinea corporis). The powder is effective at reducing itching and scaling of the skin.
In addition, it may be used to treat other surface fungal infections, such as jock itch (tinea cruris).
How the powder is formulated
When creating a powder for pharmaceutical purposes, the size and distribution of the particles matters. The size of the particles affects how well the powder can be spread and how well it sticks to the skin.
Also, excipients are included in the powder. Excipients are inert substances, such as talc or starch, that improve how the powder flows and how easy it is to apply.
Cosmetic uses
This powder can be found in foot powders and other hygiene products. It helps to control odor and prevent the growth of fungus.
Because zinc has anti-inflammatory properties, the powder may be useful in treating acne.
Safety and Regulations
Before using any medication, it’s important to know that it is safe, that you know what precautions to take, and that you know about possible side effects. Here’s what you should know about zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid.
Safety
When used as a cream, ointment, or powder on your skin, zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid are generally considered safe. Very little of these medications gets absorbed into the body through the skin.
That said, some people may have mild skin irritation or an allergic reaction.
Regulations
In many places, you can buy medications containing zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid without a prescription. For example, in the United States, you can purchase these medications over the counter.
Precautions
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or on other mucous membranes. If this happens, rinse right away.
If you know that you are hypersensitive to zinc or undecylenic acid, don’t use this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does undecylenic acid get rid of candida?
Undecylenic acid possesses antifungal properties that can help manage Candida overgrowth, including Candida albicans, but does undecylenic acid kill good bacteria in your gut? It works by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, hindering its growth. While it can be effective, it may not completely eradicate Candida on its own and is often used as part of a broader treatment strategy.
How long does it take for undecylenic acid to work?
The time it takes for undecylenic acid to show noticeable effects can vary depending on the severity of the infection and individual response. Some individuals may experience improvement within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent use to see significant results. Patience and adherence to the recommended dosage are key.
What is the strongest antifungal over-the-counter?
While the “strongest” can be subjective and depend on the specific fungal infection, undecylenic acid is widely recognized as a potent over-the-counter antifungal. Other common options include clotrimazole, miconazole, and terbinafine, which are often used for different types of fungal infections. Always consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.
What are the side effects of undecylenic acid?
Undecylenic acid is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild side effects such as skin irritation, burning, stinging, or redness at the application site. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Who should not use undecylenic acid?
Individuals with known allergies to undecylenic acid or any of its ingredients should avoid using it. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their doctor before use. It’s also advisable to seek medical advice before using undecylenic acid on children or individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Conclusion
Zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid powder are effective, safe, and readily accessible antifungal agents that are commonly used to treat superficial fungal infections. They’re a great option for many people!
One of the reasons this combination works so well is because of their synergistic action. In other words, the zinc boosts the antifungal power of the undecylenic acid, making them even better together than they would be on their own.
Future research could explore new ways to use these compounds and new combinations with other antifungal treatments. As research continues, even more uses for zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid may come to light.