Abstract: A method of treating a metal object having an outer layer including zinc includes applying to the object a treating material in the form of an alkaline solution or a gas. The treating material reacts to form a reaction layer on the outer layer. The reaction layer includes a zinc reaction product. A protective coating such as lubricant is applied to the object, wherein the reaction layer is present in an amount effective to increase a lubricity of the object. In another embodiment the metal object includes an outer layer including zinc which may be substantially non-oxidized. A reaction layer comprising zinc carbonate is disposed on the outer layer. The reaction layer is present in an amount effective to increase a lubricity of the object during a forming process. A protective coating may be in contact with the reaction layer.