The Benefits of Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo

Whether your newborn is currently living with cradle cap a.k.a  seborrheic dermatitis or you have a toddler struggling with dandruff, finding a suitable shampoo that can help to reduce scalp flakes and irritation can be difficult unless you have the right ingredients. One ingredient that should be present as you begin on this flake fighting journey should be pyrithione zinc.

What is Pyrithione Zinc?

Pyrithione Zinc is an active material composed of a “rationally developed molecule” modeled after antimicrobial aspergillic acid, according to researcher James R Schwartz. It’s an antifungal agent that is primarily used to treat symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, also known as cradle cap.

But this ingredient isn’t only effective against flaky skin and scalp. It’s also useful in treating the following conditions, according to the American Chemical Society:

• Streptococcus infection
• Staphylococcus infection
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Ringworm
• Athlete’s foot

Due to its antifungal properties, pyrithione zinc is an ingredient that can also be found in face cream, shampoo, cleaners, body wash, and face wash to provide relief for symptoms related to seborrheic dermatitis and scalp eczema.

Is Pyrithione Zinc Safe?

Yes, zinc pyrithione is safe to be used on the skin and scalp. It is an approved ingredient to be used in OTC Dandruff shampoos. It usually causes no side effects. However, in some people, it can cause a little irritation or redness. 

In case you are experiencing any side effects by using a product that contains this ingredient then discontinue its use and consult your physician or a dermatologist. Pyrithione zinc should only be used topically. 

How Does Pyrithione Zinc Work?

Pyrithione zinc targets the production of Malassezia yeast, which is naturally present on our skin or scalp. When experiencing seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff, the scalp may contain an overabundance of this yeast. 

Pyrithione zinc disturbs Malassezia yeast’s cell membrane, leading to the yeast dying or losing its ability to reproduce. It has been known to be effective for decades due to its anti-fungal properties to treat the symptoms of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. 

Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo Benefits

The biggest advantages of using shampoo with pyrithione zinc as the active ingredient? It’s safe and effective for treating common skin conditions associated with dry scalp. Let’s dive deeper.

1. It’s Effective for Reducing Scalp Flakes

While cradle cap isn’t dangerous to your little one, there’s still a parental instinct to get rid of it because it looks bothersome. Pyrithione zinc is proven to be highly effective in reducing symptoms such as flaky, dry skin all over the scalp associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

Research shows that this antifungal ingredient reduces both the fungi and free fatty acids, showing far fewer scalp flakes and itching in those living with cradle cap or dandruff.

2. It’s a Safe Option

Because pyrithione zinc is insoluble in water and cannot easily absorb into the skin, it’s considered a safe ingredient for over-the-counter products like shampoo, body wash, cream, and face wash.

Remember: This ingredient should only be applied topically; an allergic reaction is uncommon, but should be brought to the attention of a doctor if use of zinc pyrithione becomes problematic.

3. Soothes Redness

As we discussed earlier zinc pyrithione has soothing properties for itchy and irritated skin. Which makes it a safe and effective ingredient for people with sensitive skin and scalp.

4. Better Scalp Health

Research has shown that pyrithione zinc has the tendency to impact the growth of hair. The flakes and irritation caused by scalp conditions can block the hair follicles and hinder the natural hair growth process.

However, eliminating the flakes and keeping the scalp clean with a shampoo containing zinc pyrithione can help enhance scalp health and promote regular hair growth. 

5. Suitable for All Hair Types

This ingredient is safe to be used on all hair types. Whether you have oily hair, dry hair, or color-treated hair, everyone can use it and it’s effective at fighting flakes associated with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis for all. However, how often it should be used may differ for different hair types, for instance, for dry hair type it should be used only 2 to 3 times a week. Whereas an oily hair type may need to lather, rinse, and wash once more in the same bathing session and allow the product to sit on the scalp for a few minutes before a final rinsing.

6. Fungal Acne Friendly

Fungal acne also known as pityrosporum folliculitis is also caused by the same fungus that causes dandruff, the famous Malassezia. A pyrithione zinc shampoo may help soothe fungal acne.

How Often to Use Zinc Pyrithione Shampoo?

A shampoo with pyrithione zinc can be used daily depending on the severity of the condition. People who are experiencing severe seborrheic dermatitis and intense scaling and flaking are often advised by dermatologists to use pyrithione zinc shampoo daily.

And once the scales start to improve, then it can be used 2 to 3 times a week and a daily shampoo can be used on alternating days to clean the scalp. 

People with dry hair need to be more careful while using it. If they suspect that it is making their hair even dryer then consult a doctor or use the zinc pyrithione-based shampoo only twice a week. 

How to Use Zinc Pyrithione Shampoo?

• Wet your hair and scalp.
• Apply the shampoo directly onto the scalp and gently massage it. 
• Use a cradle cap shampoo to remove the excess scales and flakes.
• Leave the shampoo on for 2 to 3 minutes to let it penetrate into the scalp. 
• Rinse your scalp thoroughly with lukewarm or cool water without leaving any residue behind. 

Always use the shampoo as advised on the packaging or as advised by your doctor. In case of contact with your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with cool water. 

Pyrithione Zinc Vs Selenium Sulfide

Just like pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide is another active ingredient often used in anti-dandruff shampoo and OTC products to treat the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

However, selenium sulfide is a bit stronger than pyrithione zinc and can cause irritation and redness on sensitive scalp and skin, especially if it’s left on the scalp for a longer period. So if you have sensitive skin, before choosing which ingredient will be best for your scalp and skin condition, it may be best to consult your physician or a dermatologist. 

It’s in Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo

At Happy Cappy, we proudly use pyrithione zinc as the active ingredient in our Medicated Anti-dandruff Shampoo and Body Wash.

Our shampoo was manufactured in a certified Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) facility, which is a designation of the highest quality manufacturing possible. Pyrithione Zinc is Generally Regarded As Safe And Effective (GRASE) and follows the monograph standards of the FDA-approved ingredient.

This allows us an OTC designation. When a product is OTC, it signifies that the active ingredient went through well-controlled clinical investigations and expert trials and was supported by clinical data to determine its safety and efficacy. 

Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo and Body Wash underwent clinical testing known as Repeat Insult Patch Testing (RIPT) and had zero reactions.

Dr. Eddie created a pyrithione zinc shampoo as a solution for families and pediatricians to offer children an effective option for relieving cradle cap and dandruff without harsh ingredients. Happy Cappy products are fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free to protect your skin from getting irritated.

Grab a bottle of the best shampoo with zinc pyrithione today, or browse our other products.

Other Products Containing Pyrithione Zinc

Zinc Pyrithione Face Wash

Like shampoo pyrithione zinc face washes are also available as an OTC product. These are specially formulated for the sensitive skin on the face and help reduce redness and inflammation associated with seborrheic dermatitis. It is also used to soothe fungal acne breakouts. 

Zinc Pyrithione Soap and Body Wash 

Zinc Pyrithione Body Wash and soap are used to treat the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis on other parts of the body, such as the chest, back, underarms, and skin folds. It can also be used to soothe redness from rashes in babies’ diaper area.  

Pyrithione Zinc Cream 

Creams containing 2% pyrithione zinc are sometimes prescribed to moisturize and soothe the skin affected by skin conditions like psoriasis and fungal acne.

Key Takeaways

• Pyrithione zinc is a common ingredient used in dandruff and anti-seborrheic dermatitis shampoos. 
• It is safe to be used on the skin as an OTC product. 
• It helps reduce flaking, scaling, and irritation and is used by many to soothe fungal acne.
• It is suitable for all hair types and may also promote hair growth. 
• It should only be used topically. 
• The best pyrithione zinc shampoo is the one that is free from fragrances, parabens, and sulfate. 
• In case of any reaction, immediately consult a health care provider.

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Dr. Eddie Valenzuela

Dr. Eddie Valenzuela is an award winning pediatrician and the founder and CEO of Pediatric Solutions, LLC.

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