Piroctone olamine

Piroctone olamine (also known as Octopirox and Piroctone ethanolamine) is an antifungal compound often used in hair care products like shampoos and conditioners to treat dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis. It is also found in certain types of skin care products due to its antimicrobial properties.

Chemical Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

Piroctone olamine is an amine salt of hydroxypyridone derivative, piroctone. It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water and alcohol. Its chemical formula is C14H23N3O2 and its molecular weight is 267.35 g/mol.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Piroctone olamine is primarily used in the cosmetic industry, particularly in hair care products. It is an active ingredient in many anti-dandruff shampoos due to its antifungal properties. It works by inhibiting the growth of Malassezia, a yeast that is commonly associated with dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

In addition to its use in hair care, piroctone olamine is also used in some skin care products. It has antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent the growth of certain types of bacteria and fungi on the skin.

Safety and Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Piroctone olamine is generally considered safe for topical use. However, like all cosmetic ingredients, it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include redness, itching, and swelling of the skin.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

In the European Union, piroctone olamine is approved for use in cosmetics under the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. In the United States, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is considered safe for use in over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal products.