Pyrithione is used to make zinc pyrithione, an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory chemical that helps manage scalp conditions such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Using it in a topical form can indirectly support stronger, healthier hair.
Pyrithione
*image for illustrative purpose only
Pyrithione
*image for illustrative purpose only
Pyrithione is the chemical used to create zinc pyrithione (also called pyrithione zinc), the active ingredient in many topical products that aim to manage dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis, which is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause redness and greasy, flaky scales and can often affect scalp health.
Pyrithione works by slowing down fungal growth and helping to regulate oil production, ensuring the scalp doesn’t become overly greasy, which can exacerbate dandruff and other scalp issues. The chemical also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help provide relief from scalp itching and irritation. The ingredient promotes a healthy scalp, which can indirectly reduce excess hair shedding caused by inflammation and poor scalp health.
Pyrithione zinc comes in various forms, including creams, sprays, shampoos, soaps, and solutions, and it’s generally available without a prescription.
Pyrithione zinc 1%:
Helps prevent recurrence of flaking and itching associated with dandruff
Antimicrobial
Stop use and ask a doctor if:
Condition worsens or does not improve after regular use of this product as directed
The cost of pyrithione zinc depends mostly on the form, amount, brand, and where you buy it. The most common form is shampoo, with the cost ranging from about $5 to $30 per bottle at pharmacies and online retailers.
Hims’ Dandruff Detox Shampoo containing pyrithione zinc costs between $15 and $18 per bottle depending on the subscription plan you choose.
Keep this and all drugs out of reach of children
For external use only
When using this product, avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse eyes thoroughly with water
If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away
There’s some evidence that anti-dandruff shampoo containing pyrithione zinc (1%) can help with hair loss. One six-month study of 200 people found that using a shampoo with pyrithione zinc resulted in improved hair growth after 26 weeks of treatment. However, the participants who applied a 5 percent minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine®) fluid daily saw more improvement in hair growth in that timeframe.
Hims’ Dandruff Detox Shampoo is meant to be used twice a week, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Yes, although it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider to make sure you’re using the right combination of products for you.
No, pyrithione zinc does not inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the primary hormone behind male pattern hair loss.
*This information is from the Head & Shoulders 2in1 Advanced Scalp Care® label. See the full label for more complete information. Pyrithione zinc may also be the active ingredient in other medications, and this information may not be accurate for all medications that include the active ingredient pyrithione zinc.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.
Berger RS, et al. (2003). The effects of minoxidil, 1% pyrithione zinc and a combination of both on hair density: a randomized controlled trial. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1365-2133.2003.05435.x
Mangion, S. E., Holmes, A. M., & Roberts, M. S. (2021). Targeted Delivery of Zinc Pyrithione to Skin Epithelia. International journal of molecular sciences, 22(18), 9730. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22189730