Zinc pyrithione is one of the most popular anti-dandruff ingredients contributing bactericide-fungicide action in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-on products. It is a dispersion of fine particles that enhances the anti-dandruff efficacy and cosmetic performance attributes.
Zinc pyrithione effectively fights against Malassezia spp. yeast, which is the primary factor in the development of dandruff on the scalp. Malassezia is a lipid-loving organism and is therefore attracted to the lipophilically coated zinc pyrithione, offering enhanced efficacy of the Zinc pyrithione, as well as counteracting some negative effects of shampooing such as dry scalp and residue build up on the hair.
Regulatory Compliance In the United States, Zinc pyrithione dispersion complies with the current FDA OTC monograph for use as an anti-dandruff agent in shampoo or hairdressing. U.S. FDA-allowed concentrations of Zinc Pyrithione for Anti-Dandruff applications are as follows:
- Rinse-Off Applications 0.30 – 2.0% active
- Non Rinse-Off Applications 0.1 – 0.25% active