Ingredient · Updated
Pyrithione Zinc 1% (Active)
Found in 2 products
What is Pyrithione Zinc 1% (Active)?
Pyrithione Zinc is an antimicrobial compound often used in dandruff shampoos. It is produced by combining zinc with a pyrithione solution, resulting in a compound that effectively combats fungal growth.
It is primarily used to manage dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis by reducing the growth of yeast that contributes to these conditions. The health evidence supports its effectiveness in these applications, though its safety profile has been evaluated for external use only.
When you see Pyrithione Zinc on a label, it indicates the product may help with scalp-related concerns such as flakes and itchiness.
Commonly found in: Dandruff Shampoos, Conditioners, Scalp Treatments
What to watch
- Prolonged exposure may cause irritation or sensitization in some sensitive individuals.
Benefits
- Effective in reducing dandruff and soothing itchy scalps.
Pyrithione Zinc is approved by the FDA for use in over-the-counter dandruff shampoos and similar products.
Studies have consistently shown it is effective in treating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Pyrithione Zinc is synthetically produced and is generally considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: FDA Approves Pyrithione Zinc · Clinical Evaluation of Pyrithione Zinc Efficacy
Scout's take
OTC anti-dandruff active. Genuinely effective against Malassezia yeast (the cause of seborrheic dermatitis and most dandruff), but EU restricted in cosmetics as of March 2022 except narrow OTC anti-dandruff use due to rat developmental and reproductive toxicity data. EWG 7-8.
All 2 products with Pyrithione Zinc 1% (Active)
Where Pyrithione Zinc 1% (Active) shows up
- Hair Care 2 products
Higher-scoring picks without Pyrithione Zinc 1% (Active)
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Pyrithione Zinc 1% (Active), scoring 80 or above.
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