If you’ve ever struggled with an itchy scalp, dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, you know how frustrating it can be to find a product that truly works. After trying countless shampoos and scalp treatments, I discovered zinc pyrithione soaps—a game-changer for soothing irritation and reducing flakes. Zinc pyrithione is a powerful antifungal and antibacterial agent that helps combat conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and fungal acne. While there are many options available, not all zinc pyrithione soaps are created equal.
After extensive testing, I’ve narrowed it down to the five best options that have helped me the most. Below, I’ll share my honest experiences with each—both the good and the not-so-good—so you can find the best fit for your needs.
1. Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) Bar Soap

Read full review >>
Pros:
- Contains 2% zinc pyrithione, the highest concentration available over-the-counter
- Made with olive oil, emu oil (in some variants), and oatmeal for added moisture and gentle exfoliation
- Mild and non-irritating, even for sensitive skin
- Helps with fungal acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and back acne
- Can be used on the scalp, face, and body
Cons:
- Can be drying if used too frequently—moisturizing afterward is a must
- Slight “purging” effect in the first few days for some users
- More expensive than some alternatives ($8-$13 per bar)
My Experience:
Noble Formula’s creamy lather feels luxurious on the skin, and I love that it doesn’t contain any artificial fragrances. After just a week of use, my scalp felt significantly less itchy, and my dandruff was noticeably reduced. However, I did experience a bit of dryness, so I made sure to alternate with a gentler cleanser. If you have stubborn scalp issues or fungal acne, this soap is worth trying.

2. DermaHarmony 2% Zinc Pyrithione (ZnP) Bar Soap
Pros:
- Also contains 2% zinc pyrithione for powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties
- Fragrance-free and made with minimal additives, great for sensitive skin
- Helps with seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne
- Affordable compared to other options (around $8.69 per bar)
- Available in smaller travel-friendly sizes
Cons:
- Can be drying, so using a moisturizer afterward is recommended
- Not explicitly labeled hypoallergenic, though many with sensitive skin tolerate it well
- Some users experience a mild burning or tingling sensation upon first use
My Experience:
I found DermaHarmony to be a great alternative to Noble Formula, especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. It lathers quickly and feels gentle on the skin. I saw a noticeable improvement in scalp flakiness within a few washes. The only drawback was the mild tingling sensation upon first use, but it disappeared after a few days. If you have seborrheic dermatitis or scalp acne, this is a solid pick.
3. Vanicream Z-Bar Medicated Cleansing Bar

Read full review >>
Pros:
- Dermatologist-recommended, especially for sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free—perfect for those with allergies
- Contains 2% zinc pyrithione, effective for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis
- Gentle enough for daily use on the face and body
- Helps with fungal acne, back acne, and perioral dermatitis
Cons:
- More expensive than some competitors ($7-$10 per bar)
- May not be as effective for stubborn cases of seborrheic dermatitis
- Can feel slightly drying with frequent use
My Experience:
I loved that Vanicream’s unscented formula didn’t irritate my skin. Unlike some medicated soaps, this one doesn’t have a strong “medicinal” smell, which I appreciated. After using it a few times per week, my scalp felt calmer, and the flakiness improved significantly. It’s also a great facial cleanser if you struggle with fungal acne. If you have sensitive skin and want a gentle yet effective option, this is a fantastic choice.
4. JJ CARE Zinc Soap with 2% Zinc Pyrithione
Pros:
- Contains natural ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin, which provide added hydration
- Effective against seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and fungal acne
- Affordable, typically priced lower than other zinc pyrithione soaps ($4.95 per bar)
- Can be used on both face and body
Cons:
- Strong aloe vera scent, which may not be for everyone
- Some users report a slightly sticky residue after rinsing
- Can be drying for certain skin types
My Experience:
JJ CARE’s zinc soap was surprisingly moisturizing, thanks to its inclusion of glycerin and aloe vera. I noticed my scalp felt less irritated after just a few washes. However, the scent was a bit stronger than I’d like, and the bar left a slightly sticky feeling if I didn’t rinse thoroughly. Despite that, it’s an affordable and effective option for those on a budget.
5. DermaZinc Zinc Therapy Soap
Pros:
- Infused with oatmeal, shea butter, and cocoa butter for extra moisture
- Helps with eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis
- Has gentle exfoliating properties due to oatmeal
- Creates a rich lather and rinses off easily
- Long-lasting bar, making it cost-effective
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point ($7-$10 per bar)
- Can feel too moisturizing for those with oily skin
- Some users experienced mild stinging initially
My Experience:
DermaZinc was one of the most soothing bars I tried, thanks to its rich, creamy formula. My scalp felt hydrated and itch-free after just a few washes. The oatmeal provided gentle exfoliation, helping with flakiness. However, for those with oily scalps, this might feel too heavy. If you have dry or sensitive skin, this could be the perfect choice.
Concluding Thoughts
After testing these five soaps, I found that each had its strengths. If you need a high-strength formula, Noble Formula and DermaHarmony are great choices. If you want a gentler option, Vanicream Z-Bar is ideal. JJ CARE is the best budget-friendly choice, while DermaZinc offers a moisturizing and soothing alternative.
No matter which one you choose, zinc pyrithione soaps are a fantastic way to combat scalp irritation and stubborn dandruff. Just remember to follow up with a good moisturizer, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, itch-free scalp!