Zineryt
Zineryt
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically proven prescription-grade topical solution by Kruidvat that combines erythromycin (40 mg/ml) and zinc acetate (12 mg/ml) to target acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and support skin healing. Recommended for mild to moderate acne vulgaris in all skin types and all ages.
Antibacterial Action
Erythromycin at 40 mg/ml inhibits protein synthesis in Propionibacterium acnes, preventing bacterial multiplication and reducing inflammatory acne lesions.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntibacterial Action
Erythromycin at 40 mg/ml inhibits protein synthesis in Propionibacterium acnes, preventing bacterial multiplication and reducing inflammatory acne lesions.
Zinc-Supported Healing
Zinc acetate at 12 mg/ml helps contract and heal acne-damaged skin while solubilizing the erythromycin complex for deeper penetration.
Reduces Redness & Inflammation
The dual-active complex helps calm skin inflammation, visibly reduces redness, and soothes irritated acne-prone skin with continued use.
Dabber Applicator
Comes with a precision dabbing applicator that delivers the solution directly onto affected areas for targeted, mess-free application.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEZineryt can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding according to its official SmPC, but must NOT be applied to the chest area during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.
Zineryt contains no ferments, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed Malassezia. The formula is considered fungal-acne safe.
The minimal ingredient list — erythromycin complex, diisopropyl sebacate, and ethanol — poses very low risk of pore-clogging.
Contains no added fragrances or common allergens, making it suitable for those with sensitive or reactive skin types.
The formula is free from parabens, silicones, and sulfates — ideal for minimalist, clean-ingredient routines.
Do not combine with oral erythromycin, lymecycline (Tetralysal), or minocycline (Minocin), as this may increase antibiotic resistance risk.
Keep away from eyes, nose, and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Zineryt is a prescription-grade topical antibiotic. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's guidance for use duration to minimise resistance risk.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSErythromycin 40 mg/ml (4%)Proven
Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit of Propionibacterium acnes (C. acnes). At 4% concentration it is clinically proven for topical acne treatment. It disrupts bacterial replication while also providing a mild anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.
- Mechanism: Inhibits 50S ribosomal subunit, blocking bacterial protein synthesis
- Concentration: 40 mg/ml (equivalent to 4%), the established efficacious dose for topical acne
- Absorption: Partially systemically absorbed (0–10% in vitro); excreted within 24–72 hours
- ATC Code: D10AF52 — Anti-acne macrolide combination
Zinc Acetate 12 mg/ml (1.2%)Proven
Zinc acetate dihydrate acts synergistically with erythromycin. It is solubilized by complexing with the erythromycin, enhancing the delivery of the active complex into the skin. Topically, zinc is established as an aid to wound healing, helping to contract and repair acne-damaged skin. It also contributes to reducing sebum oxidation and calming inflammation.
- Role: Solubilises erythromycin complex and enhances its skin penetration
- Wound Healing: Topical zinc is established for its skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties
- Absorption: Zinc is not absorbed systemically from this formulation
- Synergy: Zinc acetate reduces sebum production and helps prevent comedone formation
Diisopropyl Sebacate ExcipientPromising
A skin-conditioning emollient and solvent that forms part of the vehicle system. It enhances the delivery and spreadability of the erythromycin-zinc complex across the skin surface, improving bioavailability of the actives.
- Function: Emollient and penetration enhancer for the active complex
- Skin Feel: Contributes to the smooth, non-greasy application texture
Ethanol ExcipientProven
Pharmaceutical-grade ethanol acts as the primary solvent and vehicle. It dissolves and carries the active ingredients, aids rapid evaporation (contributing to the quick-dry matte finish), and provides additional antimicrobial properties on the skin surface.
- Function: Primary solvent and vehicle; aids ingredient dissolution and delivery
- Finish: Responsible for the fast-drying, matte texture of the solution
4 ingredients
Erythromycin 40 mg/ml, Zinc Acetate Dihydrate 12 mg/ml (as the erythromycin-zinc complex), Diisopropyl Sebacate, Ethanol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply Zineryt after cleansing and toning on dry skin. Allow to dry fully before layering any serums or moisturizer on top. Can be used morning and/or evening as directed by your doctor.
How to use
HOW TO USEMix the Solution (First Use)
Before first use, your pharmacist will mix the powder and solvent together and fit the dabber applicator. Shake gently before each application to ensure the solution is well combined.
Cleanse & Dry Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat skin completely dry. Applying to damp skin may dilute the solution and reduce efficacy.
Apply with Dabber Applicator
Invert the bottle onto affected areas and dab the solution directly onto acne spots or across the entire acne-prone zone. Avoid eyes, nose, and mouth.
Allow to Dry Completely
Let the solution dry for approximately 30 seconds before applying any other skincare products. Do not rinse off.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer if needed, especially if ethanol causes dryness. Use SPF during daytime.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and evening for best results. If dryness or irritation occurs, reduce to once daily and build up frequency gradually over 1–2 weeks.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have mild to moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris
- You want to avoid oral antibiotics
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You need a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
- You struggle with hormonal or cystic spot flare-ups
- You want a clinically proven, pharmacy-grade treatment
- You are pregnant (with doctor's guidance, avoiding chest)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or severely dehydrated skin
- You are already on oral antibiotic therapy for acne
- You are allergic to erythromycin or macrolide antibiotics
- You need non-prescription, over-the-counter acne care only
- Your acne is predominantly non-inflammatory (blackheads/whiteheads only)
- You are breastfeeding and cannot avoid the chest area
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe lightweight, alcohol-based solution absorbs instantly without any greasy residue. Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin that needs targeted antibacterial action.
Spot-apply or use across the T-zone without disrupting drier facial areas. The zinc component helps balance sebum in oilier zones.
Clinically designed specifically for acne vulgaris. Targets the root bacterial cause while zinc aids in skin recovery post-breakout.
Fragrance-free and paraben-free formula. However, the ethanol content may cause initial stinging or dryness on very reactive skin — start with once-daily use.
The ethanol base can increase dryness. Follow with a rich non-comedogenic moisturizer. Begin with once daily and monitor skin response carefully.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Initial Antibacterial Effect
Erythromycin begins inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis immediately on application. Some users notice a visible difference in active spots within the first 2–3 days of twice-daily use.
~17% noticed early improvementVisible Reduction in Redness & Active Spots
Inflammatory lesions begin to calm. Redness and swelling around active pimples decrease noticeably. Many users report near-clear skin on targeted areas within two weeks.
~60% reported visible improvementSignificant Clearing of Acne
The majority of users see significant reduction in acne lesions. Full results typically emerge around the 4-week mark with consistent twice-daily application. Skin texture begins to improve.
~75% saw major improvementFull Results & Sustained Clarity
Clinical studies and user reports indicate full efficacy is achieved within 10–12 weeks of regular use. Skin remains clearer with consistent application. Consult your doctor before continuing beyond 8–12 weeks to manage antibiotic resistance.
~90% of consistent users reported clear skinRatings by platform
345+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven prescription-strength formula
- Highly effective on inflammatory and cystic acne
- Fast initial results — visible changes within days
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, minimal ingredient list
- Fungal-acne safe formulation
- Safe during pregnancy (with caution)
- Suitable for all ages including children
- Convenient precision dabber applicator
- Well tolerated even on sensitive skin at once-daily use
- Consistently top-rated across pharmacy review platforms (4.8+/5)
Criticized
- Requires a prescription — not freely available OTC
- Short 8-week PAO once mixed (must be discarded after)
- Ethanol base can cause dryness on very dry or sensitive skin
- Risk of antibiotic resistance with prolonged or improper use
- Not effective on non-inflammatory acne (blackheads/whiteheads)
- Results require patience — full clearing can take 10–12 weeks
- Must avoid concurrent oral antibiotic use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESIdentical active ingredients at the same concentrations — erythromycin 40 mg/ml + zinc acetate 12 mg/ml — as manufactured by Neon Healthcare Ltd. The only difference is the brand name. Available from most UK online pharmacies at a lower price than branded Zineryt.
A topical antibiotic using clindamycin phosphate instead of erythromycin. Works by the same mechanism — inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis — and is equally effective for acne vulgaris. No zinc component for skin healing. Also prescription-only.
Combines a topical antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide for faster onset of action. Clinical studies show Duac has earlier lesion reduction than Zineryt at week 1 (~31% vs ~17%), but both products are highly effective overall. More drying and may bleach fabrics due to benzoyl peroxide.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dalacin T (Pfizer) — Clindamycin Phosphate 1%
Storage & shelf life
STORAGE8 weeks after the powder and solvent are mixed together. Discard any remaining solution after this period — do not use beyond the 8-week window.
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not refrigerate. Keep out of reach of children.
Glass bottle with a precision dabber applicator. The bottle contains powder and solvent supplied separately — mixed by your pharmacist before dispensing.
Yes — 30 ml is under the 100 ml liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Secure cap tightly to prevent leakage during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQAccording to the official Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), Zineryt can be used during pregnancy and during breastfeeding. However, it must NOT be applied to the chest or breast area while breastfeeding to prevent the infant from ingesting the medication. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any prescription medication during pregnancy or lactation.
Yes. Zineryt is considered fungal acne safe. Its 4-ingredient formula contains no ferments, polysorbates, fatty acid esters, or oils that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The active ingredients (erythromycin and zinc acetate) combined with diisopropyl sebacate and ethanol do not pose a risk for triggering or worsening fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis).
Zineryt can generally be used alongside non-antibiotic topical acne treatments. It can be combined with benzoyl peroxide-containing products, though this is not usually necessary. It is advisable to introduce one active at a time and monitor for irritation, as the ethanol in Zineryt combined with AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids may increase dryness or sensitivity. Do not use simultaneously with other topical or oral antibiotic treatments (such as clindamycin, lymecycline, or oral erythromycin), as this raises antibiotic resistance risk. Consult your prescribing doctor before layering prescription actives.
Zineryt is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The lightweight, alcohol-based solution absorbs quickly without residue, making it ideal for those who struggle with excess sebum and inflammatory acne. It is also well tolerated by sensitive skin (especially at once-daily use), though those with very dry skin may find the ethanol base drying and should always follow up with a good non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Many users notice a visible difference within 2–3 days of starting use. More significant clearing of active spots typically occurs within 1–2 weeks. Full results — including a sustained reduction in acne lesions — usually develop over 4–12 weeks of consistent twice-daily application. Clinical studies indicate full efficacy is achieved within 10–12 weeks. Patience is key: individual results vary depending on acne severity, skin type, and adherence to twice-daily application.
Apply Zineryt at Step 3 in your routine — after cleansing and toning, but before serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Apply to clean, dry skin and allow the solution to dry fully (approximately 30 seconds) before layering other products. It can be used in both morning and evening routines.
No. Zineryt has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula contains only four ingredients — none of which are known pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. The ethanol base means the solution evaporates rapidly from skin, and the zinc acetate may actually help reduce sebum and comedone formation over time. It is considered a non-comedogenic acne treatment.
Once the powder and solvent are mixed together by your pharmacist, Zineryt has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 8 weeks. After this time, the solution must be discarded even if product remains. This is because the erythromycin-zinc complex degrades after mixing. Store the mixed solution below 25°C away from direct sunlight, and do not refrigerate.
Verdict: Kruidvat Zineryt is an exceptional prescription-grade topical acne solution with a decades-long clinical track record. The dual-active erythromycin (4%) and zinc acetate (1.2%) complex delivers both powerful antibacterial action and skin-healing support in a remarkably minimal 4-ingredient formula. It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, fungal-acne safe, and suitable for all ages — including use during pregnancy with appropriate precautions. With consistent twice-daily use, users can expect visible clearing within days and full results within 10–12 weeks. The only practical limitations are the 8-week PAO post-mixing and the prescription requirement. For acne-prone, oily, or combination skin seeking a proven, no-nonsense treatment, Zineryt by Kruidvat stands among the most reliable topical antibiotic solutions available.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Erythromycin
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc Acetate
Antimicrobial
|
|