The history of zinc being used for treating skin conditions goes as far back as the 13th century. We won’t be going so far back, though. We will, however, tell you all about this mineral and why it has found its way into today’s creams,
If you’re trying to find out about
- What Is Zinc and Pyrithione Zinc?
- What Can It Do For Your Hair?
- Top 10 Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos Comparison Table
- Top 10 Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos Detailed Reviews
By the time you finish reading this
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| Head & Shoulders |
| 4.0/5.0 |
| 50.7 ounces |
| Unisex |
| Reliable anti-dandruff formula with predictable results at a great price. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| Scalp Sync – Pyrithione Zinc |
| 4.0/5.0 |
| 13.5 ounces |
| Unisex |
| Great anti-dandruff action and leaves soft and shiny hair after |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| Zinc Shampoo By DHS |
| 4.5/5.0 |
| 16 ounces |
| Unisex |
| Maximum strength |
| Check Amazon |
What Is Zinc and Pyrithione Zinc?
Zinc is a “mineral”. Pyrithione zinc is one of its forms and is mainly used in shampoos. The other forms in which we find zinc in cosmetics are zinc oxide and calamine.
Broadly speaking zinc is a very important and essential mineral for a lot of body functions and processes. Although it has many other functions, talking from the perspective of just skin and hair, it has a critical role to play in the production of collagen in the body. Collagen is essential for the growth of healthy skin and hair.
Why zinc has found its way into cosmetics, skin, and hair care products can be explained by its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. This makes it a great inert bulking and coloring agent when it comes to
Its ability to remove free radicals and reduce the oxidative stress on the skin makes it an ideal ingredient for anti-aging creams. Another great property of zinc is that it is inert and not easily absorbed in the body. This makes it a great ‘barrier’ in various specialized formulations like sunscreens and diaper rash creams.
What Can Pyrithione Zinc Do For Your Hair?
- Pyrithione zinc helps counter dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis: An undeniable benefit of
pyrithione zinc for hair is that it eradicates dandruff and helps seborrheic dermatitis.
However, it’s not known whether this effect is due to the fact that zinc improves the general quality of scalp skin or if it has an inhibitory effect on the oil glands.
What is worth noting is that while other anti-dandruff agents like coal tar and salicylic acid work on the symptoms,pyrithione zinc seems to work against the cause itself i.e.themalassezia residing on the scalp.
This is probably why the anti-dandruff effect ofpyrithione zinc is much more long-lasting than other active agents. While there aren’t many studies on the mode of action ofpyrithione zinc on dandruff, there is an irrefutable link between zinc deficiency in the body and various types of dermatitis. - Pyrithione zinc has a role to play in stopping hair loss: Dandruff has a logical relation to hair loss. Dead skin and flake accumulation tend to block the hair follicle and hinder proper and healthy growth of hair.
The itchiness associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis also contributes towards hair loss due to breakage. When apyrithione zinc shampoo is used to wash the hair, the resolution of dandruff and itchiness automatically leads to stoppage of hair loss and thinning hair.
In fact, there was a study done in 2003 to see the effect of a 1%pyrithione zinc shampoo, minoxidil, and a combination of both on hair density. This 6 months long study comprising 200 participants showed that after 9 weeks there was a considerable increase in the hair count for the 1%pyrithione zinc shampoo, minoxidil, and the combination group. However, it’s worth mentioning that the minoxidil group performed slightly better thanpyrithione - Pyrithione zinc takes care of smelly hair: Oily hair can lead to dandruff but it can also lead to smelly hair. When the excess oil secreted in the follicles is not cleaned properly, it breaks down and starts giving off that typical scalpy-smell.
Pyrithione zinc has astringent properties. Therefore, it makes a very good cleanser. It can clean the scalp and rid it of bacteria. This is probably why it makes for a great deodorizer too.
Top 10 Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos Comparison Table
| Item Type | Volume | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Head & Shoulders, Green Apple, 2-In-1, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo | Shampoo | 50.7 ounces (8.45 x 6) | Check Price |
| Derma Harmony, Bar Soap | Soap bar | 8 ounces (4 x 2) | Check Price |
| Scalp Sync, Pyrithione Zinc, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo By Biolage | Shampoo | 13.5 ounces | Check Price |
| Zinc Shampoo By DHS | Shampoo | 16 ounces | Check Price |
| Z-Bar By Vanicream | Soap bar | 6.72 ounces (3.36 x 2) | Check Price |
| Free And Clear, Medicated, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo By Vanicream | Shampoo | 8 ounces | Check Price |
| Anti-Dandruff, 2-In-1 Shampoo And Conditioner By Ion | Shampoo | 10.5 ounces | Check Price |
| Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo | Shampoo | 11 ounces | Check Price |
| Noble Formula Shampoo | Shampoo | 8 ounces | Check Price |
| Hair Loss Shampoo And Thickening Conditioner By Honeydew | Shampoo + conditioner | 16 ounces (8 x 2) | Check Price |
Top 10 Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos Detailed Reviews
1. Head & Shoulders, Green Apple, 2-In-1, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
I guess it’s no surprise that the first
Sticking true to their mission, this clinically proven product promises to fight dandruff and remove other associated symptoms like itch and dryness. It has a three action formula that cleans the hair thoroughly, protects it from further dandruff, and also eliminates dryness in the process. Yet, it is suitable for all hair types and gentle enough for daily use.
This product does what it claims. It is not only very effective against dandruff, flaking, and itching but will also keep your hair soft. This may be attributed to the fact that this is a 2-in-1 product, which means that it is a combination of a shampoo and a conditioner.
Since it is a pH balanced formula, it is also gentle enough for users with color-treated and chemically treated hair. The shampoo has a crisp green apple scent that many users love as well.
However, there is no product on the market that can please 100% of the users. So with this one too, some users have complained of dry hair and scalp after use. Similarly, there are also claims of oily hair after washing and even worsening of flaking problems. That being said, this is a very small percentage of users.
The product is available in a single, double, and a pack of 6. The pack of 6 is the most economical at about $16.14.
Who’s it for: If you’re looking for a no-fuss everyday shampoo that will free you from dandruff, itching, and the hassle of a conditioner, try this. Heck, just try it if you want the delicious and fresh smell of green apple in your hair.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 50.7 ounces (8.45 x 6) |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (1%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Effective against dandruff and itching |
| Safe for daily use |
| Safe for color treated and keratin treated hair |
| Smells amazingly fresh |
| pH balanced formula |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Contains sulfates |
| May leave dry hair or oily hair for some users |
2. Derma Harmony, Bar Soap
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
This soap bar has found its way into our best shampoo list because it is wonderful when used as a shampoo. Moreover, it has a natural element to it as well which makes it even more attractive. If you’re looking to try some
Also, we had to consider the fact that that dandruff, flaking, and itching as more than just problems of the scalp. In so many cases, users have complained of flaking on the scalp as well as parts of the face.
This is very common in seborrheic dermatitis or even psoriasis cases. So, we picked this soap bar that is 2%
Another great thing about this soap bar is the natural ingredients in it, which makes it a sulfates and parabens free product. This means that it is gentle for daily use and can also be used by children. It is odorless and one bar goes a long way if stored carefully. This is a two bar pack, so 8 ounces of the product is available for around $12.95.
Who’s it
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 8 ounces (4 x 2) |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (2%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Effective against dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema |
| Safe for use on the hair as well has |
| Natural ingredients |
| Sulfates and parabens free |
| Can be used daily |
| Can be used by kids |
| Artificial colors and |
| The Cons |
|---|
| May |
3. Scalp Sync, Pyrithione Zinc, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo By Biolage
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
We’ve been looking in-depth at hair products for a while and what we found is that every product has a substitute. Where one product does not work, the other is bound to. Haters of one are loyal fans of the other. You get the picture…
So, this shampoo by Matrix Biolage is the number one choice for users for whom Head & Shoulders has not worked. There are also users who have not been satisfied with either H&S or Selsun Blue but love this shampoo.
Along with
The number one benefit that this product has over H&S and Selsun Blue is that it leaves hair feeling really soft and smelling heavenly. That is the reason why this creamy formula is loved and favored by hairstylists and salons. Another reason might be that it is good for all hair types.
While it’s not really a budget shampoo at around $18 for 13.5 ounces of product, this product is totally worth the price.
Who’s it
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 13.5 ounces |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (1%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Controls dandruff and itching effectively |
| Smells amazing |
| Leaves hair feeling really soft |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Contains sulfates |
| May not work as claimed for everybody |
4. Zinc Shampoo by DHS
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5.0
So, there are only a few 2%
Not only does it provide relief from itching and flaking, but it is also very effective when it comes to helping with seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. It is exceptional at calming irritated and inflamed skin but that is not even the best part. The real clincher is this shampoo’s salon quality outcome.
The formula, even with 2% concentration of
One user actually compared the after-wash experience to that matching a very pricey shampoo like Oribe. Moreover, there are very few users complaining of dry hair after washing with this formula. Users that have not been entirely satisfied with Head & Shoulders and Selsun Blue are also happy with this shampoo.
Another great thing about this one is that it has, according to users’ descriptions, a medicinal but mild and pleasant smell. It is safe for all types of hair and only needs to be used twice a week. You can get 16 ounces of this product at around $20.43.
Who’s it
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 16 ounces |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (2%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Effective at curing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis |
| |
| Mild smell |
| Safe for all hair types |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Contains sulfates |
| May not work for everybody |
5. Z-Bar by Vanicream
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5.0
The Z-bar by Vanicream is another great 2%
It’s no doubt that today it is known for its gentle formulations and for using only minimal but effective ingredients. It is because of this reason that this product is treated as one of the go-to solutions by dermatologists treating people with sensitive skin.
Despite being so gentle, this soap bar still packs a powerful formula that is very effective at curing symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and even psoriasis. Users report immediate relief in symptoms after just a few washes. Again, even though this product is incredibly effective in general, its true quality comes to the fore in cases of sensitive skin.
The company specifically mentions that this soap can be used, both on the body and the scalp. However, it is understandable that most users have only used it on the body. Nevertheless, our research has shown that it has all the makings to be a product that can be used on the scalp as an effective anti-dandruff and anti-seborrheic dermatitis solution.
This soap bar lathers well too. This is surprising since its formulation doesn’t contain any sulfates. It is also free of other unnecessary ingredients such as dyes, fragrances, parabens, gluten, lanolin, and formaldehyde. You can get two soap bars (3.36 Oz per bar) at around $15.97.
Who’s it
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 6.72 ounces (3.36 x 2) |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (2%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Effective against symptoms of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. |
| Can be used on the body as well as scalp |
| Contains mild and gentle ingredients |
| Especially good for sensitive skin |
| Non-comedogenic which means that it won’t clog your pores |
| Free of sulfates, gluten, dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde. |
| The Cons |
|---|
| May dry some user’s skin |
6. Free and Clear, Medicated, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo by Vanicream
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5.0
This is another in a great line of dermatologist tested and recommended products from PSI. The entire range of products that this company makes is aimed at users with sensitive skin and this medicated, anti-dandruff shampoo is no different.
This maximum Over-The-Counter (OTC) strength
However, what sets it apart from other products is the fact that it is formulated to be mild and allergen free. Let’s be honest here. It isn’t a small feat to formulate a mild but effective product.
When it comes to efficacy, many users report almost immediate relief from itching and flaking. There are also many saying that it works better than H&S Clinical Strength formula and has none of the associated irritating smells that linger.
Users with a very sensitive sense of smell have hailed this product quite lavishly. On the other hand, people suffering from eczema and even psoriasis have reported using it to successfully cure their annoying symptoms.
While this product is great for oily hair, it may not be as flawless for people with dry hair. Some users with dry hair have suggested that this shampoo dries their hair even more.
Another small issue for users with a special affinity for lather may be that this product doesn’t produce a lot of lather. This is true for many shampoos that don’t contain sulfates.
So such users may have to resort to using sulfate-based shampoos or make peace with the fact that lather isn’t necessary for a thorough cleansing. Already, there are users who have moved past this little limitation by focusing on this shampoo’s amazing anti-dandruff qualities.
You can get an
Who’s it
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 8 ounces |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione Zinc (2%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Effective for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis |
| Gentle and mild, well suited for sensitive skin and eczema |
| Contains no known allergens or irritants |
| Free of dyes, fragrances, masking fragrances, lanolin, formaldehyde, formaldehyde releasers |
| Dermatologist Tested |
| Non-Comedogenic which means that it won’t clog your pores |
| Very mild scent |
| The Cons |
|---|
| May leave dry hair for some users |
7. Anti-Dandruff, 2-In-1 Shampoo And Conditioner by Ion
Editor’s Rating: 3.5/5.0
If you’re a fan of styling or coloring your hair you would already be well acquainted with this professional hair care brand, ION. Their anti-dandruff, 2-in-1 shampoo contains 1%
Its formulation is also notable because it contains pomegranate extract. Not many people know that pomegranate is a great source of punicic acid. In recent times, punicic acid has shown to be very effective against treating almost all common hair problems like dandruff, itching, and dryness. Also, it supports healthy hair growth by improving the blood circulation to the scalp.
So, how does this product actually fair on its promise of relieving you of dandruff and itching? Well, the users have no complaints as far its anti-dandruff action is concerned. Many also say that it has effectively reduced flaking and decreased itching as well. Not only that, since this is a 2-in-1 shampoo, many users report that it leaves soft and manageable hair after a wash.
The only minor drawback of this shampoo is that it may not work for severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. That may be because this shampoo has been made primarily as a professional solution for color-treated or chemically treated hair. Clinical strength formulations the ones you want for severe dandruff conditions.
It is safe to be used every day by users with different hair types. A 10.5 Oz bottle of this product is available for about $12.35.
Who’s it for: If you have color treated or chemically treated hair and are looking for a good anti-dandruff shampoo, this should be the first one you try.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 10.5 ounces |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (1%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Effective at curing dandruff |
| Can be used every day |
| Suitable for all hair types |
| Contains conditioner |
| Safe for color treated and chemically treated hair |
| Parabens and |
| Smells good |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Contains sulfates |
| May not work for severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis |
| May leave dry hair for some users |
| Pricey |
8. Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
Yes, Selsun Blue primarily uses selenium sulfide in its formulations. However, since Head & Shoulders veered off in Selsun Blue territory with their selenium sulfide shampoo, Selsun Blue decided to come out with their own 1%
Their selenium sulfide shampoos have been crowd pleasers and keeping up with the trend, this shampoo does not disappoint either. It even has caffeine and vitamins in the formula for nourishing the scalp and strengthening the hair.
Along with that, this product also promises fuller and thicker hair along with its anti-dandruff action. User reports corroborate the effectiveness of its anti-dandruff action completely. In fact, according to these reports, it only takes a few washes for their dandruff problem to disappear nearly without a trace.
Many users also love the way it leaves their hair. Users with oily hair report that it leaves hair feeling soft but not too weighed down. As for the “thicker and fuller” hair claim, we feel that it’s too soon to tell even though a few users support it.
All in all, it is a good attempt by Selsun Blue at making a
Who’s it for: If you’ve loved the other Selsun Blue anti-dandruff shampoos, you will absolutely love this one too. Try this especially if you have thin or fine hair.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 11 ounces |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (1%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Good at controlling dandruff and flaking |
| Contains caffeine |
| Great for fine hair |
| Safe for daily use |
| Good for all hair types but especially great for fine or thinning hair |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Contains sulfates |
9. Noble Formula Shampoo
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
This is another great maximum strength formula created by Onto Inc. This Noble Formula shampoo derives its name from a patented formula created by Dr. Richard Faiola.
The formula is basically
The users agree and have been reporting relief from a wide array of long-standing and severe scalp conditions, ranging from mild flaking to rosacea. This shampoo is also a favorite of people with a sensitive sense of smell because it is completely fragrance-free.
Where irritating smells in shampoos are concerned, comparisons with H&S are quite common. In such comparisons, this shampoo comes out on top. In fact, the difference is significant enough for a lot of users to view this shampoo as a superior product to H&S options.
The company recommends using this shampoo twice a week. Even so, if you need, you can probably use it more frequently without any downsides. You should be mindful of the fact that instances of dry hair after washes have also been reported. The solution to that, coming from the users themselves, is following it up with a great conditioner. An
Who’s it
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 8 ounces |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc (2%) |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Good for eliminating dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis |
| Great for psoriasis |
| Only has to be used twice a week but can be used daily if needed |
| Safe for color treated hair |
| Fragrance-free |
| |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Contains sulfates |
| May not work for everybody |
10. Hair Loss Shampoo And Thickening Conditioner by Honeydew
Editor’s Rating: 4.0/5.0
Even though this product is not specifically marketed as a Pyrithione zinc shampoo, it does contain this ingredient. Why it makes it to our list is simply because with this shampoo and conditioner set you
It promises to promote hair growth, reinvigorate scalp, reduce frizzy/static hair, and make hair soft while taking care of the dandruff symptoms. All those extra benefits and qualities are there because its formula contains tea tree oil, essential oils, antioxidants, lavender, and rosemary along with
While this combo is rare enough to promise a great deal, we are only concerned with the
The conditioner in this set works amazingly well with the shampoo too. This is evidenced by user reports of very soft and silky hair after washes. On top of all this, this shampoo improves the general quality of hair in myriad ways as well.
For instance, it is known for resolving frizzy hair and split ends. It’s great for use on all types of hair and is safe for color and chemically treated hair too. It seems to suit users with sensitive skin as well and delivers on all its promises without any side-effects. You can get this set for about $17.
Who’s it for: If you are looking for more than just a
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Product weight: 16 ounces (8 x 2) |
| Active ingredients: Pyrithione zinc |
| Gender: Unisex |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Works great against dandruff and flaking |
| Stops hair loss, makes hair soft, promotes hair regrowth, strengthens hair, treats frizzy hair, and removes split ends. |
| Works well for sensitive scalp |
| Can be used |
| Safe for color and chemically treated hair |
| Sulfates and parabens free |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Some users find the smell to be a bit overwhelming. |
[rating_form id=”1″]
Contents
- What Is Zinc and Pyrithione Zinc?
- What Can Pyrithione Zinc Do For Your Hair?
- Top 10 Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos Comparison Table
- Top 10 Pyrithione Zinc Shampoos Detailed Reviews
- 1. Head & Shoulders, Green Apple, 2-In-1, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
- 2. Derma Harmony, Bar Soap
- 3. Scalp Sync, Pyrithione Zinc, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo By Biolage
- 4. Zinc Shampoo by DHS
- 5. Z-Bar by Vanicream
- 6. Free and Clear, Medicated, Anti-Dandruff Shampoo by Vanicream
- 7. Anti-Dandruff, 2-In-1 Shampoo And Conditioner by Ion
- 8. Selsun Blue Dandruff Shampoo
- 9. Noble Formula Shampoo
- 10. Hair Loss Shampoo And Thickening Conditioner by Honeydew
