Many skin problems on dogs are made worse as a result of excessive or inadequate oil production from a dog's sebum glands. Excessive oil production by these secretion glands eventually begins to build up and die, causing clumps of dead skin cells to form. As these dead skin cells continue to form, bacterial, fungal, and germ growth typically occur which then leads to further skin problems such as itching, scratching, and a host of other more serious issues. If not enough oil is being produced the skin becomes dry and brittle. Either way the sebum glands need zinc to rebalance and produce the correct amount of oil.
Numerous studies and research have shown that Zinc PCA rebalances the sebum glands to properly produce the proper amount of oils, hence reducing the buildup of dead skin cells and dog skin problems. In other words, zinc is the element that controls the production of oil in the sebum gland. When the skin has proper levels of zinc (approximately 30% of canines) the sebum glands produce the proper amount of oils; when the zinc levels are off, so is the oil production.
In fact, if you research zinc-pca you will find that it not only provides wonderful relief for dogs, but also has great benefits to human skin problems as well, to include odor control, dandruff treatment, etc…
The typical skin conditions that benefit the most from Zinc are hot spots, excessive dry and itchy skin, rashes, pimples, yeast infection, and dog dandruff. More severe dog skin problems, such as mange and open skin sores are also often cured with the help of zinc-pca; although these conditions typically require additional treatments.
Does Zinc-PCA help control Dog Odor?
We often get asked the question, and the answer is yes. Again, there have been extensive studies to show that zinc compounds do an amazing job at not simply masking odors, but removing them at their source – again because the most common origin of foul dog odors come from a skin problem. Specifically it inhibits AP-1 which is a factor in collagens production – a prime contributor to constant foul dog smell.
The answer is no, as the underlying problem must be identified first. Often dog dry skin and other skin infections are a result of enzyme deficiencies which cause what is very loosely referred to as a skin allergy. FYI, a "dog skin allergy" can be anything ranging from simple itchy dog skin to hot spots, to mange.
Most often, the underlying cause of skin problems in dogs is a combination of both of these deficiencies. This is why the RenuPlex Complete Healing Kit is so successful in treating dog skin problems; because it treats both causes, and does not simply mask the symptoms.
Signs of Zinc Deficiencies in a Dog's Skin
Zinc is a trace element that is a vital and needed mineral for a dog. When a dog is deficient in zinc one of the first places they will show symptoms is on their skin, Typical conditions and first signs include increased shedding, more and more itching and scratching, dandruff like flaking, and sometimes a foul odor. In addition to this, other health related issue will begin to develop. Many people ask the question, is a zinc deficiency internal or external (on the skin) and how can it be replenished? The answer is both. Zinc deficiencies can be corrected both externally (i.e., RenuPlex Medicated Dog Shampoo), as well as internally (SkinPlex Enzymes and nutrients). External treatment is more immediate but will not provide a permanent cure. Internal treatment of a combination of enzymes and zinc will provide the permanent and lasting relief, however it takes about 3 to 4 weeks to fully take effect. This is why it is so important to treat dog skin problems both internally and externally.
Interesting Information:
Zinc is the most abundant natural "fighter" on a dog's skin. In fact over 32% of the skin is comprised of zinc which is responsible for fighting and protecting the skin, glands, hair follicles, and membranes from infections and health related problems. Zinc PCA is one of the most powerful and effective element at killing and preventing bacteria, yeast infection, and germs. Zinc prevents infections.
Dog Dry Skin Treatments with Skin Plex and Renu Plex
How to Identify dog skin problems and remedies.