When it comes to skincare, finding a product that truly works can be a challenge, especially for those dealing with conditions like psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and fungal acne. I decided to try the Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc (ZnP) Bar Soap after reading numerous reviews praising its effectiveness. This soap is formulated with 2% zinc pyrithione, a well-known antifungal and antibacterial ingredient, making it an appealing choice for anyone struggling with stubborn skin issues.
After using it for several weeks, I want to share my honest experience—both the good and the not-so-good—so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you. I’ve tested it in multiple ways—on my face, scalp, and body—and I’ll cover everything from packaging to effectiveness and overall value.
Packaging
The packaging is simple and clinical, which makes sense for a medicated skincare product. It comes in a basic cardboard box that feels functional rather than luxurious. While it might not be visually appealing, it does its job well.
One thing I appreciate is that the label provides clear and comprehensive information about the ingredients and usage, making it easy to understand its purpose. The soap itself is a rectangular bar, making it easy to hold and use. Depending on the variant, the color ranges from off-white to light yellow. While the design isn’t particularly eye-catching, it aligns with its practical and medicinal nature.
Ingredients
One of the reasons I chose this soap was its blend of natural and synthetic ingredients. The active ingredient is 2% pyrithione zinc, known for its ability to combat fungal and bacterial skin issues.
Beyond that, it contains moisturizing agents like olive oil, emu oil (in some variants), and cocoa butter, which help counteract potential dryness. Some versions also include oatmeal as a mild exfoliant. The soap isn’t certified organic or explicitly labeled hypoallergenic, but it is designed to be gentle on sensitive skin.
However, everyone’s skin is different, so I highly recommend doing a patch test before fully incorporating it into your routine.
Scent
I opted for the emu oil version, which is unscented or very lightly scented. Other variants may have a subtle natural fragrance from ingredients like cocoa butter or mango butter, but this soap doesn’t contain artificial fragrances.
The scent is mild and doesn’t linger, which I personally prefer. It’s unisex and suitable for year-round use, making it ideal for those who are sensitive to strong fragrances. However, if you enjoy heavily scented soaps, this one may seem too plain.
Effectiveness
Now, onto the most important part—does it actually work? I found that it produces a creamy lather rather than a foamy one, which I like because excessive foam can sometimes indicate harsh ingredients. It lathers quickly, rinses off cleanly, and leaves the skin feeling refreshed.
- For fungal acne: I noticed an improvement in small breakouts within a couple of weeks.
- For seborrheic dermatitis: I tried using the lather on my scalp, and it helped reduce flakiness.
- For back acne (bacne): With consistent use, it significantly reduced breakouts.
- For sensitive skin: While many people tolerate it well, I did find it slightly drying, so I recommend using a moisturizer afterward.
- For long-term use: Some people experience a temporary “purging” phase where breakouts worsen before improving. I noticed some initial irritation, but it subsided after a few days.
Overall, I was impressed with its effectiveness, but I found that using it once a day or every other day worked best to avoid excessive dryness.
Size and Lifespan
The bar weighs 3.25 oz (92 g), which is a standard size for specialty soaps. I found it to be hard and durable, meaning it lasts a long time compared to softer bars.
A single bar can last several weeks with regular use. To extend its lifespan, I recommend storing it in a dry place and using a soap dish with drainage to prevent it from dissolving too quickly.
Brand Reputation
Noble Formula has built a strong reputation in the skincare community for creating high-quality products targeted at problem skin. While it may not be as widely recognized as some mainstream skincare brands, it is well-regarded by those who have tried its products.
The company is known for using effective, research-backed ingredients and manufactures its products in the USA. Additionally, they have a no animal testing policy, which is a major plus for those who prioritize cruelty-free skincare.
Price and Value
The price of a single bar typically ranges between $8 and $13, depending on the retailer and any discounts available. While it’s not the cheapest soap on the market, its high-quality ingredients and effectiveness make it worth the cost. Compared to other medicated soaps, it’s competitively priced and can save money in the long run by reducing the need for additional treatments.
Availability
One of the conveniences of this soap is that it’s readily available online through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Noble Formula’s official website. Some specialty skincare stores also carry it, but it may be harder to find in local drugstores or supermarkets.
If you plan on using it regularly, consider buying in bulk to ensure you don’t run out.
- Effective for fungal acne, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis
- Gentle yet powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties
- Long-lasting, durable bar
- Unscented or lightly scented options available
- Cruelty-free and made in the USA
- Can be used on both face and body
- Can be slightly drying, especially for sensitive skin
- Not widely available in physical stores
- Lacks a luxurious feel compared to other high-end soaps
- May take a few weeks to show significant improvement
Overall Rating
After weeks of testing, I’d rate the Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc Bar Soap an 8.5/10. It delivers great results for problem skin, lasts a long time, and is affordable given its quality. The only downside is its potential dryness, but that can be managed with a good moisturizer.
Important Notes
While this soap has worked well for me, everyone’s skin is different. If you have sensitive skin, start by using it once every other day and monitor how your skin reacts. Also, if you experience excessive dryness or irritation, try alternating it with a gentler cleanser. Lastly, if you have persistent skin issues, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist before making any major changes to your skincare routine.
Would I repurchase it? Absolutely! It’s become a staple in my skincare routine, and I’d recommend it to anyone dealing with similar skin concerns.
