The Three Best Minerals for Your Skin

If, like us, you’re a skincare obsessive, it can feel as though every month ushers in a new “must-have” ingredient, each promising to be the next game-changer in beauty. In recent years, however, our beauty shelves have seen a resurgence of ingredients that have been benefiting skin for centuries: minerals. Sourced from rocks, water, and soil, these age-old healers have been revered for their restorative and transformative effects on the skin. At the forefront of this recent revival are zinc, copper, and magnesium—hero ingredients known for supporting skin structure, enhancing resilience, reducing inflammation, promoting cell renewal, and balancing oil production.

With expert insights from Dr. Nowell Solish, Director of Dermatologic Surgery at the University of Toronto and a Consultant for Indeed Labs, and Jo Corcoran, UK Educator at Image Skincare, we uncover how each of these powerhouse minerals contributes to a healthier, more resilient complexion. From zinc’s soothing effects to copper’s collagen-boosting powers, and magnesium’s ability to calm stressed skin, read on to discover how these three essential minerals can elevate and refine your skincare routine.

Zinc

According to Dr. Solish, zinc is “the acne-fighting mineral.” As he explains, “Zinc helps reduce acne by calming inflammation, fighting bacteria, and controlling oil production.” Zinc further strengthens the skin’s barrier, shielding it from irritants and pollution, healing wounds, and soothing irritation. However, Dr. Solish cautions that excessive use can dry out the skin and suggests checking for any zinc allergies, as it may cause flare-ups in susceptible individuals.

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a hydrating, water-based serum formulated for acne-prone skin. It enhances skin brightness, refines texture, and strengthens the skin barrier over time. Clinical results indicate that it hydrates the skin barrier within seven days and visibly smooths skin after eight weeks.

This medicated spot treatment mask targets breakouts while helping to prevent new blemishes. Formulated with 10% sulfur, 4% niacinamide, zinc PCA, and bentonite, it works to absorb excess sebum, exfoliate dead skin cells, brighten skin tone, soothe surface redness, and promote a clearer complexion.

Copper

According to Corcoran, “copper has a healing effect as it helps produce collagen and elastin, the building blocks of the skin.” This effect also means that, as Corcoran explains, “copper helps smooth out wrinkles, improve skin texture, and may assist in managing bacterial infections.” Copper also plays an influential role in maintaining skin health. “It improves blood flow to the skin,” adds Dr. Solish, “bringing more oxygen while providing antioxidant protection and guarding against environmental damage.” Dr. Solish cautions that, like zinc, copper may cause irritation if overused or when used by individuals sensitive to it, so he advises his patients to start with small doses, gradually increasing usage over time.

Developed for sensitive skin types, the Skinstitut Repair Balm provides soothing relief for dryness. With a blend of potent actives, this nourishing balm supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier, helps reduce the appearance of redness, and, thanks to essential lipids, envelops the skin in hydration. Vitamin-rich shea butter locks in moisture, while a plant-derived ceramide complex nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier.

iS Clinical’s lightweight Copper Firming Mist is infused with hydrating and soothing ingredients to revitalise dull, dry, and dehydrated skin. Formulated with a unique blend of copper PCA and other antioxidant-rich ingredients, this mist delivers a firmer, more radiant complexion while hydrating the skin, calming irritation, and protecting against free radical damage.

Magnesium

“Magnesium is crucial for maintaining various bodily functions, including skin health,” explains Dr. Solish. “It works to support the skin’s barrier, aiding in cellular repair and renewal.” Dr. Solish adds that magnesium hydrates the skin, reduces moisture loss, and promotes skin repair, helping to diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Corcoran highlights that magnesium also calms inflammation, dryness, and itchiness, making it particularly effective for menopausal skin. While magnesium is soothing, Dr. Solish advises that it may irritate highly sensitive skin and warns that overuse can cause dryness.

Packed with zinc, copper, and magnesium, Indeed Labs Hydraluron deeply hydrates the skin and protects it from environmental stressors. Its hero ingredient is an advanced moisture complex featuring a unique blend of high, medium, and low molecular weights of hyaluronic acid. This complex forms a multi-layer, long-lasting moisture barrier, leaving dry skin looking and feeling plump, smooth, and hydrated.

The Image Vital C Hydrating Anti-Ageing Serum features a high-potency formula proven to boost hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, promoting plump, bouncy skin, while a multi-vitamin C complex—including magnesium ascorbyl phosphate—brightens the complexion, combats dullness, and reduces signs of environmental damage. Additionally, a blend of nourishing antioxidants, including green tea, helps to protect the skin against daily environmental stressors.