ZINC PYRITHIONE is graded F** (Banned) by Expert·ING, based on COSING regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING — AnnexII.
ZINC PYRITHIONE
Safety grade: F**
Zinc pyrithione is a powerful antimicrobial compound that fights the bacteria and fungi responsible for dandruff and scalp irritation. It's commonly found in anti-dandruff shampoos and scalp treatments.
This ingredient works by reducing dandruff-causing microorganisms on the scalp, controlling excess oil production, and helping to condition hair while also preserving the product from microbial contamination.
Graded using: COSING.
- EU COSING — Prohibited
Last verified: June 7, 2026
Safer alternatives to ZINC PYRITHIONE
- SALICYLIC ACID — Grade C**. Salicylic acid directly targets dandruff and conditions hair like zinc pyrithione.
- CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE — Grade A. Cetrimonium chloride provides antimicrobial and hair conditioning properties for scalp health.
- BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE — Grade A. Behentrimonium chloride conditions hair and has antimicrobial scalp benefits.
Other Prohibited Chemical ingredients
- BUTYLPHENYL METHYLPROPIONAL — Grade F**
- HYDROXYISOHEXYL 3-CYCLOHEXENE CARBOXALDEHYDE — Grade F
- CI 73360 — Grade F
- PENTASODIUM PENTETATE — Grade F**
- 4-METHYLBENZYLIDENE CAMPHOR — Grade F
- COLLOIDAL SILVER — Grade F**
Other Preservative ingredients
- SODIUM BENZOATE — Grade C
- PHENOXYETHANOL — Grade B**
- BENZYL ALCOHOL — Grade C**
- POTASSIUM SORBATE — Grade B
- BENZOIC ACID — Grade C**
- METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C
- METHYLPARABEN — Grade C