
PIROCTONE OLAMINE
Piroctone Olamine: Anti-Dandruff Active Ingredient
Piroctone Olamine is a highly effective anti-dandruff product with antimicrobial, odor-controlling, and anti-acne properties. The recommended usage rate is a maximum of 1% for rinse-off products and a maximum of 0.5% for leave-in products.
Piroctone Olamine effectively eliminates unwanted odors in both humans and pets. It is used in shampoo formulas that add volume and increase hair thickness. It reduces sebum production on the skin's surface and is suitable for anti-acne applications. It is a clinically approved, effective, safe, and non-irritating product. Piroctone olamine has a specific effect against Pityrosporum Ovale, which is responsible for dandruff production.
Piroctone Olamine Supplier for Shampoo & Personal Care Manufacturers
ACTA Chemicals supplies Piroctone Olamine (CAS 68890-66-4) to manufacturers in the cosmetics, personal care, and hair care industries.
As an anti-dandruff active ingredient supplier, we provide Piroctone Olamine raw material for shampoo manufacturers and cosmetic formulators developing anti-dandruff shampoos, scalp care products, and specialized personal care formulations.
Our team supports B2B customers with product information, technical documentation, and assistance with raw material sourcing.

WHAT IS PIROCTONE OLAMINE?
Piroctone Olamine is a compound with antifungal and antimicrobial properties frequently used in hair care products. It is commonly found in anti-dandruff shampoos because it inhibits the overgrowth of a fungal species called Malassezia, thereby alleviating itching, dandruff, and oily scalp. This ingredient can also be used in skincare products; its antibacterial effect can benefit acne-prone skin.
Piroctone Olamine is preferred in anti-dandruff shampoos as an alternative to antifungal agents such as Zinc Pyrithione and Ketoconazole. It helps maintain a healthy skin barrier by regulating the fungal balance on the scalp.
This ingredient offers effective solutions for both hair and skin health, making it a key component in hair care products.
ADVANTAGES OF PIROCTONE OLAMINE
1. More Gentle and Skin-Friendly
Piroctone Olamine has a more skin-friendly composition compared to anti-dandruff active ingredients such as Zinc Pyrithione and Ketoconazole. It minimizes the risk of irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.
2. Broad Antifungal Spectrum
Pirocton Olamine is effective not only against Malassezia fungus, but also against other fungi and microorganisms. Its broad-spectrum antifungal properties help control dandruff while keeping the scalp healthy.

3. Supports Scalp Health
Piroctone Olamine not only eliminates dandruff, but is also effective in maintaining the microbiome balance of the scalp. Being less drying than Zinc Pyrithione, it helps preserve scalp moisture and health.
4. Potential to Reduce Hair Loss
Some studies suggest that piroctone olamine may reduce hair loss. Its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties may offer beneficial effects on hair follicles.
5. Less Toxic Effects
Piroctone Olamine is considered a safer option because it is thought to have lower toxicity compared to other antifungal agents such as Ketoconazole in long-term use.
6. Aesthetic Advantages
Piroctone Olamine leaves no white residue in products and does not create a greasy feeling in the hair. It provides a cleaner and lighter application compared to Zinc Pyrithione.
Thanks to these advantages, Piroctone Olamine has become a preferred ingredient for individuals with sensitive skin and for hair care products requiring long-term use. Its anti-dandruff effectiveness and skin-friendly nature help maintain scalp health while minimizing the risk of irritation. Its low toxicity over long-term use and aesthetic advantages, offering a cleaner and gentler application in products, are factors that make it stand out compared to other antifungal ingredients.
PIROCTONE OLAMINE FORMULATION
Concentration Ratios
Piroctone Olamine is used in hair care products at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1.0%. For an effective formulation, the concentration is adjusted according to the product type. For example:
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In shampoos: 0.5% - 1.0%
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In hair conditioners: 0.1% - 0.5%
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In hair lotions: 0.1% - 0.8%
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Solvent Use
Piroctone Olamine is dissolved in a solvent (such as propylene glycol, ethanol, or PEG-400) and added homogeneously to the formulation. This process ensures that the active ingredient is evenly distributed throughout the product.
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pH-balanced operation
For effective results, Piroctone Olamine stabilizes within a pH range of 4-7. It is important to adjust the pH balance in the formulation using citric acid or sodium hydroxide.
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Formulation Stages
Piroctone Olamine is typically added during the cold phase of the formulation. This preserves the effectiveness of the component without exposing it to high temperatures.
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Compatibility with Other Components
Piroctone Olamine works compatibly with components such as surfactants, softeners, and preservatives. However, high temperatures or extreme pH conditions can reduce the effectiveness of the component, so the formulation must be prepared to accommodate these elements.
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Effectiveness and Usage Period
Piroctone Olamine, used to control dandruff and prevent fungal growth, helps maintain scalp health when used regularly. It is important to adjust the concentration to ensure effectiveness without causing hair or skin sensitivity.
Piroctone Olamine – Anti-Dandruff Benefits
Anti-dandruff products containing Piroctone Olamine help control the growth of fungi associated with dandruff formation. Piroctone Olamine supports scalp cleanliness, helps reduce itching, and helps prevent the recurrence of dandruff.
Piroctone Olamine – Recommended Usage Levels
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Anti-Dandruff Rinse-Off Products: 0.1–1.0%
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Anti-Dandruff Leave-On Products: 0.05–0.5%
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Anti-Acne Rinse-Off Products: 0.1–1.0%
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Anti-Acne Leave-On Products: 0.05–0.5%
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Pet Care Rinse-Off Products: 0.1–1.0%
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Pet Care Leave-On Products: 0.05–0.5%
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Deodorant Sprays: 0.2–0.5%
Piroctone Olamine Applications
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Shampoos
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Deodorants (including pet care products)
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Soaps
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Aftershave Balms
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Anti-Irritation Creams
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Anti-Acne Creams
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Hair Masks
Piroctone Olamine Technical Specifications
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Appearance: White to slightly yellowish crystalline powder
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Odor: Characteristic
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Water Solubility: Insoluble (0.10 g in 10 mL of water)
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Methanol Solubility: Soluble (1.00 g in 10 mL of methanol)
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pH (1% in water, 20°C): 9.0–10.0
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Melting Point: 133–136°C
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Molecular Weight: 298.43 g/mol
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Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₃₀N₂O₃
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Formaldehyde-Free
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Paraben-Free
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Antimicrobial Activity: Broad-spectrum
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CAS Number: 68890-66-4
INCI Name: Piroctone Olamine
Piroctone Olamine for Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Formulations
Piroctone Olamine is an antifungal active ingredient used in the development of anti-dandruff shampoos and scalp care formulations. Its activity against Malassezia species makes it a relevant raw material for manufacturers developing products for dandruff-prone scalps.
In shampoo formulations, Piroctone Olamine can help control dandruff-associated microorganisms while supporting scalp care performance.
For cosmetic manufacturers, selecting the appropriate concentration and formulation system is essential to achieving the desired product performance. Compatibility, solubility, and applicable regulatory requirements should be evaluated during product development.
ACTA Chemicals supplies Piroctone Olamine for professional cosmetic formulation and industrial manufacturing applications.
FOR MORE INFORMATION & INQUIRIES
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