Skin & Hair — What Minerals
Contribute According to EU Review

Skin and Hair: A Mirror of Internal Nutrient Supply

Skin and hair are among the most rapidly renewed tissues of the human body. The epidermis renews itself completely within about 28 days, while a single scalp hair grows by around 0.3 mm per day. Both processes depend on a continuous supply of nutrients — including certain trace elements.

Based on scientific opinions, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated several health claims on minerals in connection with skin and hair. The EU Commission subsequently authorized specific claims for zinc, selenium, and copper in accordance with Regulation (EU) No. 432/2012.

Quarzlicht compiles this scientifically reviewed information in a clear format — without promises of cures, without exaggeration, strictly based on the authorized EU claims.

Biological Basics: How Skin and Hair Are Structured

Human skin consists of three main layers: the epidermis (outer skin), the dermis (true skin), and the subcutis (subcutaneous tissue). Each layer performs specific tasks and requires certain nutrients for continuous renewal:

• Epidermis: The outermost layer contains keratinocytes, which produce keratin and migrate from the basal layer to the skin surface over the course of their life cycle.
• Dermis: This is where the collagen and elastin fibers are located that give the skin firmness and elasticity. Fibroblasts synthesize these structural proteins continuously.
• Hair follicles: Anchored in the dermis, they house the hair matrix cells, which divide at high speed. Hair color is determined by melanocytes, which release melanin to the growing hair cells.

Trace elements with a documented contribution to the maintenance of normal skin and normal hair have been shown to act as cofactors in various of these processes. However, each authorized claim refers to a single mineral and a specific function.

Zinc and the Skin: Scientific Background

Zinc is involved in DNA replication and cell division — both processes required for the renewal of the epidermis. Zinc finger proteins influence the expression of genes responsible for keratinocyte differentiation. In addition, zinc is a component of superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant enzyme in the skin.

“Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin” — In accordance with Regulation (EU) No. 432/2012

Natural sources of zinc include beef, pumpkin seeds, lentils, and rolled oats. Bioavailability is affected by phytic acid in grains but can be increased by soaking or fermentation.

Selenium and Hair: Selenoproteins in the Follicle

At least three selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidases that neutralize reactive oxygen species have been detected in the hair follicle. Thioredoxin reductase, also a selenoprotein, is involved in the redox regulation of hair matrix cells.

“Selenium contributes to the maintenance of normal hair” — In accordance with Regulation (EU) No. 432/2012

Brazil nuts, tuna, eggs, and whole-grain bread are among the foods richest in selenium. A single Brazil nut can cover the daily requirement for selenium.

Copper and Hair Pigmentation: Melanin Biosynthesis

The enzyme tyrosinase, which catalyzes the rate-limiting step of melanin synthesis, requires copper ions in its active site. Without available copper, the oxidation of tyrosine to DOPA and subsequently to melanin cannot take place.

“Copper contributes to normal hair pigmentation” — In accordance with Regulation (EU) No. 432/2012

Liver, oysters, cashews, sesame, and dark chocolate are considered copper-rich foods. The EU reference value is 1 mg per day.