Second-generation antifungal agent, a zinc pyrithione replacement. Effective against Malassezia – the fungus causing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
RCTs confirm efficacy for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff comparable to ketoconazole. Included in medicated shampoos as a safe alternative to zinc pyrithione after its EU restriction.
Piroctone Olamine (Octopirox) is a second-generation antifungal agent, the olamine salt of piroctone (1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2(1H)-pyridinone). Alternative to zinc pyrithione without heavy-metal safety concerns. Where applied. Anti-dandruff shampoos (0.5-1%), seborrheic dermatitis products, fungal acne cleansers (Malassezia folliculitis, pityrosporum folliculitis), scalp products. In Spain – Bioderma Nodé DS+, Ducray Kelual DS, Avène Antipelliculaire, La Roche-Posay Kerium DS. Mechanism. Metal chelator of Malassezia furfur (skin yeast) membranes – blocks ergosterol synthesis in the fungal membrane, disrupts mitochondrial respiration. Active against Malassezia globosa, M. restricta, M. sympodialis – the main species causing dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and trunk fungal acne in young patients. Evidence base. RCTs (Schmidt-Rose 2011, Piérard 2002) showed piroctone olamine 1% shampoo reduces dandruff by 60-80% over 4 weeks – comparable to zinc pyrithione 1% and ketoconazole 2%. The Cochrane Review on seborrheic dermatitis (Okokon 2015) lists piroctone olamine among first-line agents alongside ketoconazole, ciclopirox, zinc pyrithione. Safety. CIR confirmed safety up to 1% (Final Report 2014). EU Annex V, 1% limit in leave-on and rinse-off. Minimal scalp systemic absorption. Contact dermatitis rare (Schnuch 2018, <0.2%). Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Suitable in shampoos and scalp products. No restrictions on use over breast tissue during lactation. Particularly suitable for. Patients with dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, fungal acne on face/trunk/scalp – especially those who cannot tolerate zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeThe Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Piroctone Olamine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Piroctone Olamine suits: oily, combination, normal.
Second-generation antifungal agent, a zinc pyrithione replacement.
The INCI name is Piroctone Olamine. It may also appear as: Octopirox.
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