2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) Bar Soap
2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) Bar Soap
Product Description
Product overview
A medicated bar soap with maximum OTC strength 2% pyrithione zinc that effectively targets seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, fungal acne, and other yeast-related skin conditions. Formulated with natural ingredients including oatmeal, olive oil, and vitamin E for gentle daily cleansing.
Antifungal Action
2% pyrithione zinc inhibits Malassezia yeast growth, the root cause of seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntifungal Action
2% pyrithione zinc inhibits Malassezia yeast growth, the root cause of seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne.
Natural Ingredients
Made with oatmeal, olive oil, glycerin, and vitamin E. Free from sulfates, parabens, dyes, and artificial fragrances.
FDA Registered
Manufactured as a registered OTC drug under FDA cGMP guidelines with NDC Code: 71819-001-01 for quality assurance.
Family Friendly
Safe for daily use by adults and children. Gentle enough for sensitive skin yet effective against stubborn skin conditions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered low risk due to minimal systemic absorption from topical use. However, no controlled human studies exist. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Specifically designed to combat Malassezia yeast overgrowth. Pyrithione zinc is one of the most effective OTC treatments for fungal acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor.
Oil-free formula that won't clog pores. Inactive ingredients are Whole Foods premium body care compliant. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Can be used by children under adult supervision. Also effective for cradle cap and diaper rash. Start with less frequent application to test sensitivity.
A mild tingling or burning sensation is not uncommon at first use and usually subsides with continued use. If irritation persists, reduce frequency or discontinue.
Some users experience dryness. Start with one application daily and gradually increase. Follow with a moisturizer if needed. Reduce use if peeling occurs.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPyrithione Zinc 2%Proven
The active ingredient and star of this formula. Pyrithione zinc (ZnP) is a coordination complex with potent antifungal, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties that has been used safely in anti-dandruff products for over 60 years.
- Mechanism: Increases cellular copper levels in fungi, damaging iron-sulfur clusters essential for yeast metabolism and growth
- Efficacy: Clinical studies show ZnP is the most effective monographed active against scalp Malassezia (M. globosa and M. restricta)
- Residual Activity: Persists in the top skin layer even after rinsing, providing sustained antifungal coverage
- Resistance: Yeast, fungi, and bacteria do not develop resistance to pyrithione zinc
Saponified Oils (Palm & Coconut)Base
Forms the cleansing soap base through traditional saponification. Palm and coconut oils are lower in oleic acid compared to olive oil-based soaps, making them less likely to feed Malassezia yeast.
- Function: Creates the solid bar structure and produces cleansing lather
- Benefit: Low oleic acid content is better for fungal acne-prone skin
- Source: DermaHarmony uses responsibly sourced oils
GlycerinHydrating
A humectant derived from vegetable oil that helps maintain skin moisture balance during cleansing, preventing over-drying.
- Function: Draws moisture to the skin and helps maintain hydration
- Benefit: Counteracts potential drying effects of the active ingredient
Oatmeal (Avena Sativa)Soothing
Colloidal oatmeal is FDA-recognized as a skin protectant with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Contains natural saponins for gentle cleansing.
- Function: Soothes irritation, reduces redness, and provides gentle exfoliation
- Benefit: Particularly helpful for eczema, psoriasis, and irritated skin
- Properties: Rich in lipids that help lock in moisture
Olive Oil (Olea Europaea)Nourishing
A traditional skincare oil rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that helps condition the skin during cleansing.
- Function: Provides emollience and prevents excessive dryness
- Benefit: Contains vitamin E and polyphenols for skin protection
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)Antioxidant
A powerful antioxidant that protects skin from oxidative stress and helps maintain the stability of the formula.
- Function: Antioxidant protection and formula preservation
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier repair and reduces inflammation
9 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Zinc Pyrithione 2%
Inactive Ingredients: Saponified Oils (from Palm and Coconut), Water, Glycerin (from vegetable oil), Titanium Dioxide (a natural mineral), Avena Sativa Kernel Meal (Oatmeal), Olea Europaea Fruit Oil (Olive Oil), Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Sodium Chloride (Table Salt), Pentasodium Pentetate (Salt of Pentetic Acid)
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your first cleansing step. For stubborn seborrheic dermatitis, follow with DermaHarmony SD Cream. Always apply moisturizer and sunscreen (AM) after treatment products.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Skin & Lather
Wet your face, body, or scalp with warm water. Work up a lather with the bar using your hands or a soft washcloth.
Apply to Affected Areas
Gently massage the lather into affected areas. For best results, leave the lather in contact with skin for at least 30 seconds to allow the active ingredient to work.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse well with warm water. Avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse eyes thoroughly with water.
Moisturize
Follow with a fungal acne-safe moisturizer to prevent dryness. Start with once daily, gradually increasing to 2-3 times daily if needed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have seborrheic dermatitis on face, scalp, or body
- You struggle with persistent dandruff that doesn't respond to regular shampoos
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) or pityrosporum folliculitis
- You experience tinea versicolor or other fungal skin conditions
- You want a fragrance-free, natural-ingredient medicated soap
- You need an affordable alternative to prescription antifungals
- You have rosacea with fungal component
- Your baby has cradle cap or diaper rash
Consider alternatives if:
- You have extremely dry skin and cannot tolerate any drying
- You are allergic or sensitive to pyrithione zinc
- You prefer a non-soap syndet formula (try the DermaHarmony non-soap version)
- You need a more moisturizing formula (try the Shea Butter version)
- You are in the EU where pyrithione zinc is restricted since 2022
- You want a bar with minimal or no olive oil content
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESOil-free, non-comedogenic formula effectively cleanses without adding shine. Helps control sebum-related conditions.
May cause additional dryness. Start with less frequent use and always follow with a rich moisturizer. Consider the Shea Butter version.
Works well on T-zone oiliness and seborrheic areas. Apply moisturizer to dry areas after cleansing.
Fragrance-free and paraben-free. Initial tingling is normal. Start with the 1% version if very sensitive, then upgrade.
Non-comedogenic and specifically effective against fungal acne. Won't clog pores. Great for body acne too.
Results timeline
ONGOING MAINTENANCEInitial Response
Mild tingling sensation that subsides with continued use. Skin feels clean. Some users report immediate reduction in itching and flaking.
60% noticed cleaner feelingVisible Improvement
Noticeable reduction in redness, flaking, and scaling. Seborrheic dermatitis patches begin to clear. Dandruff significantly reduced.
75% saw reduced flakingSignificant Results
Affected areas show marked improvement. Fungal acne bumps flatten. Many users report 75%+ clearance of symptoms.
80% reported major improvementLong-Term Control
Continue use 2-3 times weekly for maintenance. Symptoms typically return if use is discontinued, as ZnP controls but doesn't cure underlying conditions.
Consistent use maintains resultsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff
- Maximum OTC strength 2% pyrithione zinc
- FDA registered OTC drug with quality assurance
- Fragrance-free with natural ingredients
- Non-comedogenic and oil-free formula
- Excellent lather and doesn't crumble
- Affordable compared to prescription alternatives
- Safe for daily use by adults and children
- Fast shipping directly from manufacturer
- 30-month shelf life offers great value
Criticized
- Can be drying for some skin types
- Initial tingling or burning sensation
- Contains olive oil (concern for extreme fungal acne)
- Bar melts if not stored dry between uses
- Some users find 4oz bar small for body use
- Not available in physical retail stores
- Results diminish if use is stopped
- Plain medicinal appearance (no aesthetic appeal)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Soap-free syndet formula with Vanicream cream base for extra moisture. Same 2% ZnP strength. Non-comedogenic, dermatologist tested. Better for very dry or sensitive skin but more expensive per ounce.
Handmade with olive oil, emu oil, and oatmeal. Same 2% ZnP concentration. More moisturizing due to emu oil but some find texture slimy. Slightly smaller at 3.25oz. Good for eczema and psoriasis.
Liquid shampoo with 1% selenium sulfide (different active). More widely available in stores. Good for scalp use but not ideal for face. Contains fragrances and more additives.
Same formula but half the active concentration. Better for very sensitive skin or long-term maintenance. Ideal stepping stone before trying 2% version or for children.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Vanicream Z-Bar
Noble Formula Emu Oil Bar
Storage & shelf life
30 MONTHS30 months from purchase. Lot number and expiration date printed on packaging.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep bar dry between uses to extend longevity - use a draining soap dish.
Individually wrapped in Type 5 recyclable polypropylene. Stamped/embossed with "zinc bar" on soap surface. Cardboard carton packaging.
Yes, solid bar is TSA compliant for carry-on. No liquid restrictions. Compact 4oz size fits easily in toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPyrithione zinc is generally considered low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to minimal systemic absorption from topical use (less than 1% is absorbed through skin). However, no controlled human studies exist. Most dermatologists and sources like Pharmacy Times consider topical zinc pyrithione safe for pregnant women. We recommend consulting your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding to be on the safe side.
Yes! This soap is specifically designed to treat fungal acne. Pyrithione zinc is one of the most effective OTC treatments against Malassezia yeast, which causes fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). Clinical studies show ZnP inhibits Malassezia growth at very low concentrations. The formula is also non-comedogenic and oil-free, making it ideal for fungal acne-prone skin.
Yes, pyrithione zinc has no known interactions with other skincare actives. You can use this soap in the same routine as retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. However, since ZnP can be slightly drying, and these other actives can also cause dryness or irritation, introduce products one at a time and monitor your skin's response. If you experience excessive dryness, use the soap less frequently or add more moisturizer.
This soap works best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's excellent for anyone with seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, fungal acne, or yeast-related skin conditions. Those with very dry or extremely sensitive skin may experience additional dryness and should start with less frequent use or try the 1% version or the Shea Butter variant. Always follow with a moisturizer.
Many users report feeling cleaner and less itchy within the first few uses. Visible reduction in flaking and redness typically occurs within 1-2 weeks of daily use. Significant improvement in seborrheic dermatitis or fungal acne is usually seen by weeks 3-4. For best results, leave the lather on affected areas for at least 30 seconds before rinsing. Continue maintenance use 2-3 times weekly after improvement.
Use this soap as your cleanser - the first step in your routine. Apply to wet skin, lather for 30+ seconds on affected areas, then rinse. Follow with toner (optional), any treatment serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (morning only). For scalp/hair use, it can replace your regular shampoo or be used before shampooing. Can be used on face, body, and scalp.
No, this soap is non-comedogenic and oil-free. The inactive ingredients are Whole Foods premium body care compliant. The formula is designed to cleanse without clogging pores, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. The comedogenic rating is 0/5 - the lowest possible rating indicating it will not clog pores.
The soap has a 30-month shelf life from purchase. Once opened, it will last several months with daily use - typically 4-6 weeks for face use only, or 2-3 weeks for full body/scalp use. To extend the life of your bar, keep it dry between uses in a draining soap dish. Don't leave it sitting in water. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Verdict: DermaHarmony 2% Pyrithione Zinc Bar Soap is an excellent, affordable OTC treatment for seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne. With maximum-strength 2% pyrithione zinc and natural ingredients, it offers clinical-grade effectiveness at a fraction of prescription costs. The FDA-registered formula with simple, clean ingredients makes it safe for daily family use. While some users may experience initial dryness or tingling, these typically resolve with continued use. Best value among zinc pyrithione soaps at just $2.17/oz. Highly recommended for anyone dealing with Malassezia-related skin conditions seeking an effective, fragrance-free solution.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Zinc Pyrithione
Antiseborrhoeic, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Titanium Dioxide
Uv Absorber, Sunscreen Agent, Opacifying, Cosmetic Colorant, Uv Filter
|
UV Protection
|
|
| 0 |
Avena Sativa Kernel Meal
Absorbent, Skin Conditioning, Abrasive
|
|