Z-Bar Medicated Cleansing Bar
Z-Bar Medicated Cleansing Bar
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, soap-free medicated cleansing bar with maximum-strength 2% pyrithione zinc that helps relieve itching, irritation, redness, flaking, and scaling associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Formulated with Vanicream Cream Base for sensitive skin.
Maximum OTC Strength
Contains 2% pyrithione zinc – the highest concentration available without a prescription for antifungal and antibacterial action.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMaximum OTC Strength
Contains 2% pyrithione zinc – the highest concentration available without a prescription for antifungal and antibacterial action.
Vanicream Cream Base
Formulated with nourishing Vanicream Cream Base to cleanse without stripping moisture, leaving skin hydrated.
Soap-Free Formula
Syndet (synthetic detergent) bar uses mild, non-soap surfactants that are gentler on the skin barrier than traditional soap.
Dermatologist Developed
Created by hospital pharmacists in collaboration with dermatologists specifically for patients with sensitive skin conditions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEPyrithione zinc has minimal systemic absorption when used topically. Generally considered compatible with pregnancy/breastfeeding when used as directed. Consult your doctor if concerned.
Contains antifungal pyrithione zinc that actively fights Malassezia yeast. As a wash-off product, minimal concern from inactive ingredients.
Free from dyes, fragrance, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, and botanical extracts. Dermatologist tested for sensitive skin.
Tested and verified not to clog pores or cause blackheads. Safe for facial use on acne-prone skin.
Can be used on face, hands, body, and scalp. For best results, use at least twice weekly or as directed by your doctor.
Suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. No gluten-containing ingredients in the formula.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPyrithione Zinc 2%Active
A broad-spectrum antifungal and antibacterial agent that inhibits the growth of Malassezia yeast associated with dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Also helps reduce oil production and promotes skin healing.
- Mechanism: Increases cellular copper levels and damages iron-sulfur clusters essential for fungal metabolism
- Efficacy: 1% ZnP reduced dandruff severity by 67% after 4 weeks; this product contains 2%
- FDA Status: Maximum OTC concentration for anti-dandruff products
Sodium Cocoyl IsethionateGentle Cleanser
Known as "Baby Foam" in the industry due to its exceptional mildness. This coconut-derived surfactant creates rich lather while being significantly gentler than traditional soap on the skin barrier.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil fatty acids
- Benefit: Creates rich foam without stripping natural oils
- Safety: Well-tolerated by sensitive and reactive skin types
PetrolatumBarrier Protection
The most effective occlusive agent known, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%. Helps maintain skin hydration during and after cleansing.
- Function: Creates protective barrier to prevent moisture loss
- Comedogenic: Rating 0-1 when cosmetic-grade and properly refined
- In Formula: Part of Vanicream Cream Base for added moisturization
SorbitolHumectant
A sugar alcohol that draws moisture to the skin, helping maintain hydration levels during cleansing. Works synergistically with the occlusive ingredients.
- Type: Humectant moisturizer
- Function: Attracts and retains water in the skin
16 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Pyrithione Zinc 2%
Inactive Ingredients: Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Stearate, Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Paraffin, Petrolatum, Sorbitol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Propanediol (or Propylene Glycol), Ceteareth-20, Simethicone, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-30 Stearate, Sorbic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your primary cleanser for face, body, or scalp. For best results, leave lather on affected areas for 30-60 seconds before rinsing.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Skin & Bar
Wet your skin and the Z-Bar with warm water. The warmth helps activate the cleansing agents.
Create Rich Lather
Work the bar between wet hands or directly on skin to create a rich, creamy lather.
Massage & Wait
Gently massage lather into affected areas. Leave on for 30-60 seconds to allow pyrithione zinc to work.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry gently – do not rub.
Moisturize
Follow with your preferred moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have seborrheic dermatitis on face, body, or scalp
- You struggle with persistent dandruff
- You experience fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragrances and dyes
- You need a gentle cleanser for eczema or psoriasis-prone skin
- You want a multi-use product for face, body, and scalp
- You prefer dermatologist-recommended, pharmacy-grade products
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer liquid cleansers over bar soap
- You want a heavily fragranced product
- You need intensive hydration (this is a cleanser, not a moisturizer)
- You have known sensitivity to zinc pyrithione
- You want a 100% natural/organic product
- You dislike the texture of bar soaps
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPyrithione zinc helps regulate sebum production. Cleanses thoroughly without over-stripping. Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin.
Contains moisturizing Vanicream Cream Base. May feel slightly drying – always follow with moisturizer.
Balances well across different face zones. Controls oiliness in T-zone without over-drying cheeks.
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Free from common irritants. Dermatologist tested and recommended.
Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores. Antibacterial and antifungal properties help prevent breakouts.
Results timeline
LONG-TERMInitial Relief
Noticeable reduction in itching, irritation, and redness. Skin feels cleaner and more comfortable. Some users report immediate soothing sensation.
70% noticed improvementVisible Improvement
Significant reduction in flaking and scaling. Seborrheic dermatitis patches begin to clear. Dandruff noticeably reduced.
80% saw visible resultsSymptom Control
Clinical studies show 67% reduction in dandruff/seb derm severity with 1% ZnP. This product contains 2% for enhanced efficacy. Continued use maintains results.
85% achieved symptom controlMaintenance
Regular use (2-3x weekly) prevents flare-ups. Many users report going from frequent steroid cream use to rarely needing it.
90% maintained clear skinRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Maximum OTC strength (2% pyrithione zinc)
- Soap-free, gentle syndet formula
- Free from common irritants and allergens
- Multi-use: face, body, scalp, and hands
- Non-comedogenic – won't clog pores
- No medicinal smell like other antifungal soaps
- Dermatologist recommended and developed
- Life-changing results for many with chronic conditions
- Long-lasting bar – one bar can last months
Criticized
- Can be drying for very dry skin types
- Higher price point than drugstore alternatives
- Bar can dissolve quickly if stored in wet conditions
- Sometimes hard to find in stores (stock issues)
- Simple, clinical packaging lacks luxury appeal
- Not 100% natural – contains synthetic ingredients
- May cause mild tingling on first use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 2% ZnP concentration. Also non-soap syndet formula. Contains oatmeal for extra soothing. More basic formulation without Vanicream Cream Base.
Contains emu oil for added moisturization. Same 2% ZnP. Traditional soap-based formula may be slightly more drying. Contains fragrance from natural oils.
Budget-friendly option with glycerin and aloe vera. Same 2% ZnP. Has a slight scent. May leave residue if not rinsed thoroughly.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEVanicream Z-Bar
Noble Formula ZnP Bar (Emu Oil)
Storage & shelf life
30 MONTHS30 months from purchase. Check expiration date on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place. Keep bar in a well-draining soap dish; remove from shower between uses to extend life.
Recyclable cardboard box with protective inner sleeve. White rectangular bar soap.
Yes – solid bar under 100g. No liquid restrictions. Use a soap case for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPyrithione zinc topical products have minimal systemic absorption when used as directed. While not formally assigned a pregnancy category by the FDA, topical zinc pyrithione is generally considered compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its low absorption. However, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or while nursing, especially for prolonged or frequent use.
Yes! The Z-Bar is excellent for fungal acne. The 2% pyrithione zinc is a proven antifungal that actively fights Malassezia yeast, which causes fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). As a wash-off product, any potentially problematic inactive ingredients have minimal contact time with skin. Many dermatologists specifically recommend this product for fungal acne treatment.
Yes, the Z-Bar can be used alongside these actives since it's a rinse-off cleanser. Use the Z-Bar first to cleanse, then apply your leave-on treatments after. If you experience any irritation, consider using the Z-Bar in the morning and your actives at night, or reduce frequency. The gentle, pH-balanced formula is designed to not disrupt your skin's barrier before treatment application.
The Z-Bar is ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin. It's specifically formulated for people with seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, eczema, psoriasis, and fungal acne. Those with very dry skin should always follow with a moisturizer. The soap-free, fragrance-free formula makes it suitable even for the most reactive skin types.
Most users notice initial relief from itching and irritation within the first week. Visible improvement in flaking and redness typically occurs within 2-3 weeks of regular use. Clinical studies show that 1% pyrithione zinc reduces dandruff severity by 67% after 4 weeks – the Z-Bar contains 2% for potentially faster results. Consistent use (at least twice weekly) is key for maintaining improvement.
Use the Z-Bar as your cleanser – the first active step in your routine. If you wear makeup, use a makeup remover or oil cleanser first, then follow with the Z-Bar as your second cleanse. After rinsing, continue with toner, serums, treatments, and moisturizer. For scalp use, you can use it before or in place of your regular shampoo.
No, the Z-Bar is non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested. It will not clog pores or cause blackheads. This is particularly important for those using it on acne-prone facial skin. The formula is specifically designed to cleanse without leaving pore-clogging residue, making it safe for daily facial use.
The Z-Bar has a shelf life of approximately 30 months from purchase date. Check the packaging for the specific expiration date. To maximize the bar's lifespan, store it in a well-draining soap dish and keep it out of direct water spray between uses. Many users report one bar lasting 2-3 months with regular use on face and body.
Verdict: The Vanicream Z-Bar is an exceptional medicated cleansing bar that delivers on its promises for those struggling with seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne. Its maximum-strength 2% pyrithione zinc formula, combined with the gentle soap-free base and absence of common irritants, makes it a standout choice for sensitive skin sufferers. While the price point is slightly higher than some alternatives and it may require additional moisturizer for very dry skin, the efficacy, gentleness, and dermatologist-backed formulation justify the investment. A must-try for anyone who has struggled to find relief from chronic skin conditions.
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
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.