Zinc pyrithione (ZnPT) is an antifungal that works against dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis by targeting Malassezia yeast on the scalp. It's effective at very low concentrations (10-15 ppm) and works by dissolving into active form where the yeast actually lives—on the scalp surface and in hair follicles. The research confirms it balances real treatment results with safety when properly formulated.

This was a review study that analyzed existing research on how ZnPT works pharmacologically, what makes it effective, and what safety data exists. The authors examined both lab studies (in vitro testing) and real-world toxicology data to understand how well it treats scalp conditions without causing harm.

Funding not disclosed in abstract