Piroctone ethanolamine is a compound sometimes used in the treatment of fungal infections.
Piroctone ethanolamine is the ethanolamine salt of the hydroxamic acid derivative piroctone.
Piroctone ethanolamine, also known as Octopirox, is an antifungal and antibacterial agent commonly used in cosmetic and personal care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and lotions.
CAS Number: 68890-66-4
Molecular Formula: C16H30N2O3
Molecular Weight: 298.43
EINECS Number: 272-574-2
Synonyms: Piroctone Olamine, Octopirox, Octopyrox, Kopirox, Piroctone ethanolamine, Piroctone ethanolamine salt, Piroctoneolamine, Octopirox (TN), Allermyl, Keratolux, Piroctone olamine (USAN), 1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2-pyridone monoethanolamine salt, 1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2(1H)-pyridone 2-aminoethanol salt, 1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2(1H)-pyridinone compound with 2-aminoethanol (1:1), Piroctone ethanolamine salt (1:1), Piroctone Ethanolamine [WHO-DD], Piroctone olamine [USP-RS], PIROCTONE OLAMINE [MART.], PIROCTONE ETHANOLAMINE SALT (1:1), 1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2-(1H)pyridinone, 2-aminoethanol salt, 2(1H)-Pyridinone,1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-,compd.with2-aminoethanol(1:1);4,4-trimethylpentyl)-1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(compd.with2-2(1h)-pyridinon;octopiroxolamine;1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2(1h)-pyridinoncompd.with2-aminoethanol(1:1);Hydroxyl pyrazole ketones;1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)2-pyridon monoethanolamine;1-Hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl);-one compound with 2-aminoethanol (1:1)
Piroctone ethanolamine works by inhibiting the growth of various microorganisms, including yeasts and fungi, by disrupting their cell membranes and interfering with their metabolism.
Specifically, Piroctone ethanolamine targets the enzymes responsible for synthesizing the cell membrane of microorganisms, inhibiting their growth and causing their eventual death.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and itching on the scalp and skin.
Piroctone ethanolamine is simply another chemical and regulatory name for Piroctone Olamine, representing the 1:1 salt formed between piroctone (an antifungal pyridone derivative) and ethanolamine.
It is used as an active antifungal cosmetic ingredient that targets dandruff-causing Malassezia yeast on the scalp.
Piroctone ethanolamine appears as a white to slightly yellow crystalline powder with good solubility in surfactant-based formulations.
The compound works by interrupting the metabolic processes of fungal cells, reducing scalp flaking, itching, and redness associated with seborrheic dermatitis.
Piroctone ethanolamine has a milder irritation profile compared to traditional anti-dandruff actives like zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide.
It maintains scalp microbiome balance while delivering long-term cosmetic benefits such as improved shine and reduced breakage.
Piroctone ethanolamine is globally approved for cosmetic use under CAS No. 68890-66-4 and INCI name: Piroctone Olamine.
It is found in commercial products marketed as Octopirox, Kopirox, and Allermyl.
Its strong efficacy and safety make it a popular choice in premium shampoos and leave-on scalp treatments.
Piroctone ethanolamine is a popular ingredient in hair care products that treat dandruff and other scalp conditions.
Controls dandruff: Piroctone Olamine is effective at controlling the growth of Malassezia, a yeast that can contribute to dandruff and other scalp issues.
By controlling the growth of this yeast, Piroctone Olamine can help to reduce or eliminate dandruff.
Soothes the scalp: Piroctone ethanolamine has moisturizing properties that can help to soothe and hydrate the scalp.
This can help prevent dryness, flakiness, and itching, common symptoms of dandruff and other scalp conditions.
Safe for coloured hair: Piroctone ethanolamine is safe for use on coloured hair and will not cause fading or strip colour.
Prevents fungal growth: Piroctone ethanolamine not only controls the growth of Malassezia, but it also prevents the growth of other fungi that can cause scalp problems.
Long-lasting effect: Piroctone ethanolamine has been shown to have a longer-lasting effect than some other dandruff-fighting ingredients, meaning you may be able to go longer between washes.
Gentle on the scalp: Piroctone ethanolamine is gentle on the scalp, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Piroctone ethanolamine is a compound sometimes used in the treatment of fungal infections.
Piroctone ethanolamine is the ethanolamine salt of the hydroxamic acid derivative piroctone.
It was first synthesized in 1979 by Schwarzkopf-Henkel (Germany).
It is often used in anti-dandruff shampoo as a replacement for the commonly used compound zinc pyrithione which was banned in the EU in 2021 because of concerns for environmental toxicity.
It is structurally similar to ciclopirox and pyrithione, containing a substituted pyridine (pyridinone) group which inhibits ergosterol synthesis.
Piroctone ethanolamine is a pyridine derivate.
Piroctone ethanolamine is known to have a fungicidal effect.
Melting point: 134.0–138.0 °C
Boiling point: 135–235 °C (at ~101–325 Pa)
Density: 1.1 g/cm³ (20 °C)
Vapor pressure: ≈0 Pa (20–25 °C)
Storage temp.: 2–8 °C, inert atmosphere
Solubility: Slightly soluble in chloroform (sonicated), slightly soluble in methanol
pKa: 5.9–7.4 (20 °C)
Form: Solid
Color: White to off-white
Water Solubility: 400–50,000 mg/L (20–25 °C) — varies with formulation/ionic state
Merck: 14,7502
InChI: InChI=1S/C14H23NO2.C2H7NO/c1-10-6-12(15(17)13(16)8-10)7-11(2)9-14(3,4)5;3-1-2-4/h6,8,11,17H,7,9H2,1-5H3;4H,1-3H2
InChIKey: BTSZTGGZJQFALU-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: C(N)CO.C(C1=CC(C)=CC(=O)N1O)C(C)CC(C)(C)C
LogP: 1.05–3.86 (20–25 °C)
Piroctone ethanolamine is used in combination with other substances as a part of shampoo effectively reduced the amount of dandruff and, at the same time, provided hair conditioning advantages.
Recently was shown, that Piroctone ethanolamine could induce apoptosis and possessed a significant in vivo effect against myeloma.
Piroctone ethanolamine is a synthetic ingredient that is used mainly as a preservative in personal care and cosmetic products.
Piroctone ethanolamine are very effective in curing dandruff and preventing hair loss.
This ingredient has anti-fungal properties and appears as a crystalline powder in its raw form that is white or slightly yellow in color.
Further, Piroctone ethanolamine is slightly soluble in oil and water.
The chemical formula of Piroctone ethanolamine is C14H23NO2.C2H7NO.
Freely soluble in 10% ethanol in water; soluble in solution containing surfactants in water or in 1%-10% ethanol; slightly soluble in water and in oil.
The solubility in water varies by pH value, and is a litter larger in neutral or weak basic solution than in acid solution.
It should be kept in mind that shampoos with Piroctone ethanolamine should not be used more than twice a week, unlike other daily-use shampoos that don't have this ingredient.
One of the biggest side effects of Piroctone ethanolamine is that it can cause irritation and itchiness on the head.
Piroctone ethanolamine offered by COSROMA is called Cosroma OCT. Cosroma OCT is 99% Piroctone Olamine, which is an ethanolamine salt of pyrrolidone hydroxamic acid derivative.
Piroctone ethanolamine is famous for its bacteriostatic effect, especially for inhibiting Plasmodium ovale parasitic in dandruff, face and other dandruff.
Piroctone ethanolamine is usually used in shampoo instead of ZPT.
Piroctone Ethanolamine is an antimicrobial pyridone derivative salt widely utilized in dermatological and cosmetic applications for controlling fungal growth on skin and scalp.
Its molecular structure enables excellent solubility and dispersion in surfactant-based systems, making it highly suitable for shampoos and washes.
Piroctone ethanolamine retains strong bioactivity at low concentrations due to efficient cellular uptake and membrane interaction within target microorganisms.
This compound specifically inhibits the ergosterol synthesis pathway inside fungal cells, which is essential for maintaining fungal membrane integrity and nutrient transport.
When this pathway is disrupted, Malassezia yeast populations decline, leading to a visible reduction in dandruff flakes and itchy scalp symptoms.
This mechanism allows it to outperform some older anti-dandruff agents that rely primarily on surface cleansing rather than biological interference.
Piroctone ethanolamine is valued for its gentle dermatological profile, making it compatible with daily-use personal care formulations designed for sensitive skin.
Piroctone ethanolamine does not significantly alter scalp barrier function or pH, helping maintain microbiome balance during long-term treatment.
It is often selected in sulfate-free or mild cleansing systems where more aggressive actives could cause irritation.
In addition to dandruff, Piroctone ethanolamine also assists in reducing oiliness (seborrhea) and conditions linked to microbial imbalance such as itching, redness, and flaking. Studies indicate it can reduce hair shedding associated with scalp inflammation, improving hair density and visual fullness.
Because it acts locally and is minimally absorbed, the risk of systemic effects is considered extremely low.
In the cosmetics industry, it is registered under INCI: Piroctone ethanolamine and recognized for compliance with global safety standards in Europe, the USA, and Asia.
Piroctone ethanolamine is included in both rinse-off (shampoos) and leave-on (tonics, serums) haircare systems, with usage levels commonly between 0.1% and 1.0%.
Piroctone ethanolamine is frequently combined with keratolytic agents like salicylic acid or soothing agents like panthenol for enhanced consumer benefits.
Uses:
Piroctone ethanolamine is an anti-dandruff agent used in shampoo formulations.
Piroctone Ethanolamine is primarily used in anti-dandruff shampoos, scalp tonics, and medicated conditioners to effectively reduce dandruff flakes caused by Malassezia yeast.
It helps alleviate associated symptoms such as itching, redness, and scalp irritation, providing noticeable improvement in user comfort.
Its compatibility with cosmetic surfactant systems allows manufacturers to formulate gentle, daily-use products for long-term scalp health.
Piroctone ethanolamine is included in seborrheic dermatitis care for controlling excessive sebum production and restoring a balanced scalp environment.
It supports hair density and strength by reducing inflammation-related shedding and breakage around follicles.
Because of its mildness, it is used in premium and sensitive-skin haircare formulations, including sulfate-free and dermatologically tested products.
Piroctone ethanolamine is also utilized in deodorants, body washes, and topical skin treatments where antimicrobial action is required to manage odor-causing microorganisms.
Veterinary dermatology products, such as pet medicated shampoos, also contain it for treating fungal-related flaking conditions.
Piroctone ethanolamine is often used together with keratolytic or soothing agents like salicylic acid, panthenol, and zinc pyrithione to broaden efficiency and consumer benefits.
Piroctone ethanolamine is used in combination with other substances as a part of shampoo effectively reduced the amount of dandruff and, at the same time, provided hair conditioning advantages.
Recently was shown, that Piroctone ethanolamine could induce apoptosis and possessed a significant in vivo effect against myeloma.
Piroctone Ethanolamine is widely used in cosmetic anti-dandruff products, as it effectively slows the growth of Malassezia species responsible for scalp scaling and discomfort.
By reducing yeast activity, it improves scalp appearance, hydration, and comfort in a visible and measurable way.
Its ability to function at low concentrations enables manufacturers to deliver therapeutic benefits without compromising texture, fragrance, or the sensory feel of haircare products.
Piroctone ethanolamine supports anti-hair-loss treatment strategies by decreasing scalp inflammation and improving follicular conditions linked to excessive shedding.
Consumers using products containing this ingredient often report enhanced hair volume, shine, and manageability, because the scalp maintains a healthier state.
Piroctone ethanolamine is therefore included in fortifying shampoos and leave-on serums intended for hair-thinning and breakage-prone populations.
Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action, Piroctone Ethanolamine can also be formulated into deodorants and body washes that address unpleasant odors caused by imbalanced skin microflora.
Piroctone ethanolamine is gentle enough to be included in intimate-care products, where low irritation is a strict requirement, and where fungal balance plays a role in user comfort.
It is commonly found in specialty products marketed for sensitive skin and hypoallergenic applications.
Veterinary and dermatology sectors incorporate this ingredient into pet shampoos and topical treatments for conditions like fungal dermatitis and yeast-related irritation.
Piroctone ethanolamine maintains performance even in hard water and complex surfactant environments, making it suitable for both home grooming and veterinary clinics.
Many modern formulations combine it with ingredients such as ketoconazole, climbazole, or salicylic acid for synergistic antifungal and keratolytic effects.
In pharmaceutical cosmetics, Piroctone ethanolamine is part of maintenance therapy after resolving acute scalp inflammation, helping prevent relapse.
It is approved in global regulations and provides a consumer-friendly alternative to harsher antifungal actives that may disrupt scalp barrier function.
Because of these advantages, it is one of the most versatile and dermatologically preferred anti-dandruff ingredients on the market today.
Safety Profile:
Piroctone ethanolamine is generally considered low toxicity and is classified as safe for use in cosmetic products at recommended concentrations, usually between 0.1% and 1.0%.
However, when used in high concentrations or on very sensitive skin, it may cause mild and temporary irritation such as redness or tingling.
Direct eye contact should be avoided because the raw material can cause discomfort and stinging sensations.
Inhalation of fine powder during industrial handling may cause nose and throat irritation, so adequate ventilation and protective equipment are recommended in manufacturing settings.
Piroctone ethanolamine does not present significant systemic toxicity because skin absorption is minimal, and metabolic pathways efficiently eliminate small absorbed amounts.
Studies have shown that Piroctone Ethanolamine is not carcinogenic, not mutagenic, and not a skin sensitizer under normal cosmetic use.
From an environmental standpoint, it may exhibit moderate aquatic toxicity at concentrated industrial levels and therefore should not be released directly into waterways without proper waste treatment.
In finished consumer products, usage levels are too low to create serious environmental risk, making it suitable for global cosmetic safety compliance.
Storage should avoid excessive heat and strong oxidizing agents to maintain product stability and minimize degradation.