Piroctone Olamine
Second-generation antifungal agent, a zinc pyrithione replacement. Effective against Malassezia – the fungus causing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Evidence by route
Topical application
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.
- Schmidt-Rose T et al. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2011;33(3):276-282. PMID 21272039
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
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.
Frequently asked questions
Is Piroctone Olamine safe during pregnancy?
Piroctone Olamine is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Piroctone Olamine for?
Piroctone Olamine suits: oily, combination, normal.
What is Piroctone Olamine and what does it do in cosmetics?
Second-generation antifungal agent, a zinc pyrithione replacement.
What's the INCI name for Piroctone Olamine?
The INCI name is Piroctone Olamine. It may also appear as: Octopirox.
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Propolis, Salicylic Acid, Salicyloyl Phytosphingosine, Salix Alba Bark Extract (White Willow), Sulfur, Zinc Pyrithione, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Kaolin
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