An Interview with Lana Sayah, Co-Founder of Lana Banana Skincare

Zinc, as Australians we have never been scared of Zinc if that’s the Fluro stripes on our cheeks at sports carnivals as kids or that chalky cream your mum made you wear at the beach. But when it comes to modern skincare, zinc is having a glow-up, and we are so here for it.

We caught up with Lana Sayah, co-founder of Lana Banana Skincare and the Gen Z guru behind one of Australia’s most exciting new clean skincare brands, to chat about zinc’s real role in your routine and why it’s lowkey one of the most powerful ingredients you’re probably overlooking.

Spoiler alert: it’s not just about sun protection anymore.

Okay Lana, let’s start with the basics. What even is zinc in skincare?

Great question! Most people know zinc from sunscreen or vitamins, but in skincare, we’re talking about zinc like zinc oxide, which we know and love and do include in our Protective Moisturiser for added sun protection. At Lana Banana, we also use zinc gluconate, it’s a form that your skin loves, especially when it's being reactive, moody, or breaking out.

What it does is pretty amazing, it calms inflammation, helps heal acne, regulates oil, and even helps with redness and sensitivity. It’s gentle but active.

There’s a myth going around that zinc is only for oily or acne-prone skin. Is that true?

No, that’s one of the biggest myths I hear. Zinc gluconate is amazing for acne-prone skin, but it’s also incredible for dry or sensitive skin that’s struggling with redness or irritation.

Because it’s anti-inflammatory and healing, zinc actually works for all skin types. If your skin is stressed out, whether it’s breakouts, dryness, or post-exam fatigue, zinc can help calm things down and support repair.

And you’ve included it in the Day Serum, why?

Our Day Serum includes zinc gluconate to give your skin a solid start. It’s designed to support your skin before it gets angry-balancing oil, calming inflammation, and speeding up healing. All in a lightweight, layer-friendly formula.

Is zinc just a trend, or is it here to stay?

It’s definitely not just a trend. Zinc is one of those ingredients that’s been around forever, but now we’re seeing it used in much more modern ways. It’s getting rebranded, basically, and it deserves the moment.

The difference is, we’re no longer slathering on thick zinc pastes. We’re using refined, clean formulations that blend beautifully into your routine, like in our serums. You get all the skin benefits, none of the chalky residue.

Last question, why do you love zinc so much?

Because it’s a quiet achiever. It doesn’t make a lot of noise, but it’s doing so much behind the scenes. It’s one of those ingredients that supports your skin every single day, without causing irritation, without stripping, and without overcomplicating your routine.

That’s the whole Lana Banana philosophy. Skincare should feel like care, not a chemistry experiment.

Why Zinc Should Be in Your Routine

• Anti-inflammatory & calming
• Helps regulate oil and heal breakouts
• Reduces redness and soothes sensitivity
• Strengthens skin barrier
• Works across all skin types

Zinc may not get the same attention as vitamin C or retinol, but it’s a true ride-or-die for your morning routine. And when it’s delivered in a lightweight, skin-smart formula like the Day or Night Serums, it’s not just helpful, it’s essential.

It's time to add Zinc to your routine...