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zinc oxide
noun
: an infusible white solid ZnO used especially as a pigment, in compounding rubber, and in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations (such as ointments and sunblocks)
Examples of zinc oxide in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The review also found that sunscreens with zinc oxide help prevent UV damage and, in turn, prevent skin cancers.
—Elizabeth Gamillo, Discover Magazine, 23 Feb. 2024
The hypoallergenic formula is vegan, fragrance-free, and made with 19.2% zinc oxide, plus other natural ingredients like coconut oil, avocado oil, and shea butter.
—Ambrosia V. Brody, Parents, 20 Feb. 2024
Type: Mineral / Key ingredients: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide / SPF: 50 / Oil-free: Yes
Pros: Travel-friendly; great for scalp protection; brush applicator eliminates the need to use your fingers.
—Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 13 Feb. 2024
The formula boasts titanium dioxide, which helps with broad spectrum protection, while zinc oxide offers a physical barrier from UVA rays.
—Sophie Dodd, Peoplemag, 7 Jan. 2024
The silky formula is the perfect match for sensitive skin due to mild ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide, winter cherry, and blueberry.
—Jenn Barthole, Glamour, 17 Jan. 2024
To stay sun-safe without exacerbating eczema symptoms, look for physical sunscreens (also called mineral sunscreens), which contain ingredients such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide that work by deflecting UV rays.
—Karen Pallarito, Health, 18 Dec. 2023
Powered by 100% mineral SPF 50 (zinc oxide 12%) plus a host of botanical oils and extracts, holi(sun) delivers sun protection, lightweight wear, and natural-dewy finish that will translate well into fall.
—Kiana Murden, Vogue, 30 Aug. 2023
Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer in SPF 30 is a wonderful combination of zinc oxide sun protection and oil-free moisturizing.
—Lorraine Wilde, Treehugger, 16 May 2023
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'zinc oxide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1849, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near zinc oxide
Cite this Entry
“Zinc oxide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zinc%20oxide. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.
Kids Definition
zinc oxide
noun
: a white substance that is used as a white pigment, is added to rubber, and is used in medical and cosmetic preparations (as ointments and sunblocks)
Medical Definition
zinc oxide
noun
: a white solid ZnO used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations (as ointments and powders)
More from Merriam-Webster on zinc oxide
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about zinc oxide
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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