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Piroctone Olamine is an ethanolamine salt of the hydroxamic acid derivative Piroctone. It is widely used in personal care and pharmaceutical products due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder, soluble in water and alcohols, and typically used in formulations for dandruff treatment and fungal skin infections. Pictrone olamine manufactured as Water-Soluble Antifungal Complex; Anti-Dandruff Agent.
Piroctone Olamine is an ethanolamine salt of the hydroxamic acid derivative Piroctone. It is widely used in personal care and pharmaceutical products due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is a white to off-white crystalline powder, soluble in water and alcohols, and typically used in formulations for dandruff treatment and fungal skin infections. Pictrone olamine manufactured as Water-Soluble Antifungal Complex; Anti-Dandruff Agent.
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Beauty & Personal Care
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Specialty Chemicals
Antifungal Agents
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Chemical Properties & Specifications
H302 - Harmful if swallowed
P261 Avoid breathing dust. P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P305+P351+P338+P310 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P332+P313 If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention
Acute toxicity, oral (Category 4)
13 - Non-combustible solids
Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation occurs. Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing. Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately."
Tightly fitting goggles (EN166). Eye wash bottle with pure water (EN 15154)
Active ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos and conditioners.
Incorporated into topical formulations for fungal skin infections.
Used in leave-on hair products for scalp health and treatment.
Personal Care
Active ingredient for cosmetics
Antidandruff agent, Preservatives, Scalp care, anti-dandruff shampoo, leave-on tonics, hair conditioners
Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F).
Keep container tightly closed. Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at machinery and at places where dust can be generated. Do not breathe dust.
Keep container tightly closed in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Incompatible with acids.
It is widely used in personal care formulations, particularly in anti-dandruff shampoos, scalp treatments, and hair care products. It acts as an antifungal and antimicrobial agent. Functions as an antimicrobial compound that inhibits the growth of Malassezia species, effectively reducing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It exhibits high bioavailability and low cytotoxicity in dermatological studies. Commonly found in anti-dandruff shampoos, helping to reduce itching, flaking, and irritation of the scalp.
Acts by disrupting the energy metabolism of fungal cells, particularly Malassezia, leading to their inhibition and death. It’s used as a synergistic ingredient with other actives like Zinc Pyrithione or Climbazole in premium hair care formulations. It interferes with iron metabolism in fungal cells, limiting cell growth. Its molecular structure allows better penetration into the scalp, providing targeted antifungal action.
Consumers: Piroctone Olamine works by eliminating dandruff-causing fungi, relieving itching, flaking, and scalp irritation, often delivering visible results within 2-4 weeks of regular use.
Approved for use in cosmetic products in the EU, Asia, and most regions. Typical concentrations range from 0.2% to 1.0%, depending on product claims. Formulators must comply with Cosmetic Directive 76/768/EEC and REACH standards. Research confirms low irritation potential and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, making it ideal for cosmetic dermatology applications. It complies with pharmacopoeial standards for active ingredients in topical formulations. Found in many over-the-counter and premium anti-dandruff shampoos, safe for frequent use, and often labeled as scalp-soothing or anti-itch.
Piroctone Olamine is non-toxic to aquatic life, offers better scalp tolerability, and supports natural formulations. It is often selected for premium anti-dandruff products where mildness and efficacy are required. It shows greater cell compatibility in vitro and lower cytotoxicity compared to Zinc Pyrithione. Its mechanism of action is selective, reducing side effects and promoting a healthier scalp microbiome. Many prefer shampoos with Piroctone Olamine for its gentle action, soothing feel, and reduced risk of dryness and irritation compared to traditional anti-dandruff ingredients.
It is an antifungal and antibacterial agent, mainly used in anti-dandruff shampoos and skincare formulations.
Yes, Piroctone Olamine is known for its low irritation profile, making it safer than zinc pyrithione in dermatological formulations.
