Does Pyrithione Zinc Cause Cancer?

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There are rumors floating around about one of the key ingredients in dandruff shampoos. One of the questions that we often hear is “does pyrithione zinc cause cancer?”

While the answer is fairly straightforward (and we’ll come back to that in a moment), let’s quickly look at why people may be asking.

Why Did the EU Ban Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos?

Despite being used in dandruff shampoos for more than 60 years, and despite multiple studies affirming that it’s safe, the European Union recently banned the use of pyrithione zinc

in soap, shampoo, and other cosmetics.

Frequently, in the United States, when an ingredient gets banned it is due to scientific studies that have demonstrated a risk. The EU tends to be more cautious and has a history of banning ingredients and substances that MAY cause harm in various ways.

In the case of this particular ingredient, The EU’s concern was environmental, and due to a lack of submitted evidence, it caused no environmental harm. There was no concrete evidence presented to suggest that it caused such harm.

But most importantly, the EU did NOT claim a connection between pyrithione zinc and cancer and specifically deemed it safe to use in shampoos and conditioners.

What is Pyrithione Zinc?

Zinc pyrithione is a combination of a substance known as pyrithione which is extracted from aspergillic acid and zinc ions. Its anti-bacterial properties help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which makes it beneficial in treating and reducing the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.

Due to its anti-bacterial properties, it is also known to be effective against many skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, ringworm, athlete’s foot, and tinea versicolor. It is an FDA-approved active ingredient that can be used in dandruff shampoo, body wash, medications, gels, and soaps. However, these over-the-counter products should only be applied topically.

Does Pyrithione Zinc Cause Cancer?

Despite being a restricted substance in the EU, it is fairly decisive that pyrithione zinc does NOT cause cancer. To date, there are no peer-reviewed scientific studies that demonstrate that zinc pyrithione body wash or shampoo causes cancer.

On the contrary, there is published medical evidence that zinc pyrithione inhibits tumor growth and actually KILLS cancer cells in laboratory tests. So with that out of the way, let’s look at a few potential pyrithione zinc side effects.

Pyrithione Zinc Side Effects

According to the Mayo Clinic, pyrithione zinc has two potential side effects when used correctly. The first is an allergic reaction at the treatment site. The second is mild skin irritation. The risk of either of these reactions is small, and generally nothing to cause worry and uncertainty.

Importantly, the Mayo Clinic explains that the risk is the same (low) to children and infants. As we’ve discussed regarding the ingredient on our website, “Data from evaluated studies by the FDA showed topically applied PZ has a high safety margin, no contact sensitization, and no photosensitization.

From 1964 to 1982, only 3 cases of allergic contact dermatitis had been reported.”

Happy Cappy Pyrithione Zinc Shampoo

Happy Cappy Medicated Shampoo and Body Wash is “Generally Regarded As Safe And Effective (GRASE)”

Happy Cappy’s Dandruff Shampoo and Body Wash features an FDA-approved active ingredient, pyrithione zinc, which has been proven safe and effective for many decades for relief of dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap).

This means that you can help your baby’s skin feel better without being concerned.

Conclusion

ZPT or zinc pyrithione is an FDA-approved active ingredient that is used in various anti-dandruff and anti-seborrheic dermatitis shampoos. Due to its ban in the European Union, people often consider it harmful to use and raise the question of whether can pyrithione zinc cause cancer.

The answer is no, there are no studies that show that may cause cancer in any way. In fact, there are studies that prove its effectiveness against cancer and has been proposed to be used as an alternative to chemo to treat different types of cancer.

So if you had stopped using your zinc pyrithione shampoo to treat your dandruff. Then don’t be worried and continue its use.

Try Happy Cappy Products especially formulated to manage the inflammation, scaling, and flaking associated with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and cradle cap. Safe to be used by babies, teenagers, and adults.

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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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Is pyrithione zinc safe?

Yes, it is safe. It is an FDA-approved ingredient in the USA that is used in dandruff shampoo, soap, and body wash. If used topically and as advised by your physician or dermatologist there are few chances that it will cause any side effects.

What are the dangers of pyrithione zinc?

Zinc pyrithione does not cause any major side effects. However, some people may experience slight redness, dryness, and skin irritation. If these symptoms persist or get worse immediately consult a dermatologist.

Can you use pyrithione zinc every day?

It can be used daily if used as an active ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoo. However, it should only be used on a daily basis when advised by the doctor which is usually when you have severe seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap.

Does zinc pyrithione cause hair loss?

No, there is no proof or study that shows that zinc pyrithione has caused hair loss. On the other hand, it is believed to promote hair growth by reducing inflammation, flaking, and irritation in the hair follicles. It has also shown positive results in the treatment of male alopecia.