Pyrithione zinc

Pyrithione zinc is a clinically proven antifungal and antibacterial agent that helps to kill bacteria and yeast (1). Pyrithione zinc is a versatile and effective ingredient with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and exfoliating properties.

Pyrithione zinc is a popular ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos, but more recently, research has shown its effectiveness in alleviating the symptoms of inflammatory skin problems like rosacea.

How does pyrithione zinc work?

Pyrithione zinc works by reducing the production of excess oil on the skin, which can help prevent breakouts and reduce inflammation. This particularly benefits those with rosacea, a chronic skin condition that causes redness and facial inflammation.

Pyrithione zinc is known to:

1. Reduce redness

2. Reduce bacterial growth

3. Balance sebum production

4. Gently exfoliate the skin

What conditions benefit from pyrithione zinc?

1. Rosacea

2. Acne

3. Eczema

4. Seborrhoeic dermatitis

5. Atopic dermatitis, 

6. Tinea versicolor

It also has antibacterial properties and is effective against many pathogens from the Streptococcus and Staphylococcus genera (1).

For example, Rosacea, a chronic skin condition that causes facial inflammation. Rosacea is a condition that is characterized by redness, swelling, and visible blood vessels on the face. Pyrithione zinc can help reduce these symptoms by calming the skin while balancing oil production, reducing topical bacteria growth, both of which can improve the appearance of rosacea-prone skin.

Bacteria on the skin often exacerbate inflammatory skin disorders, but pyrithione zinc can help keep bacteria at bay and prevent further skin irritation.

Pyrithione zinc is also known for its exfoliating properties, which can help improve the texture and tone of the skin. By gently exfoliating the skin, Pyrithione zinc can help unclog pores and remove dead skin cells, leading to a smoother and more even complexion (3).

How can you incorporate pyrithione zinc into your routine?

When using products that contain pyrithione zinc, it is essential to patch test the product before using it on your face, as some individuals may be sensitive to this ingredient. Always follow the product label instructions carefully and use them as directed. If you experience irritation or allergic reactions, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist.

A compounded product, usually a 2% pyrithione zinc would be prescribed. This typically contains supporting ingredients, such as glycerine, to hydrate the skin further and prevent it from drying out.

You can also use an over-the-counter product, which contains less pyrithione zinc but could be beneficial for sensitive skin.

Ultimately, consulting a skin care professional or your doctor is the best way to assure you are making the safest choice for your skin.

Disclaimer: all information contained in this blog is purely for education and is not mean to diagnose, prevent or treat illness or skin conditions.

1. Ive, F. A. (1991). "An overview of experience with ketoconazole shampoo". The British Journal of Clinical Practice. 45 (4): 279–284. ISSN 0007-0947. PMID 1839767. 

2. Faergemann, J. (2000). "Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis and Pityriasis Versicolor". American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 

3.  Piérard-Franchimont, Claudine; Goffin, Véronique; Decroix, Jacques; Piérard, Gérald E. (November 2002). "A multicenter randomized trial of ketoconazole 2% and zinc pyrithione 1% shampoos in severe dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis". Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology.