Urgent warning over shampoo and conditioner that contain chemical

A shampoo brand has been pulled from sale and anyone who has bought it has been urged not to use it, as it contains a dangerous chemical. The Office for Product Safety and Standards has issued a warning about the shampoo and conditioner which were on sale in the UK.

The Pilgrim Anti-Dandruff Shampoo and Conditioner Set has been taken off sale on Amazon after a banned ingredient was discovered. It contains Zinc Pyrithione, which is not permitted in cosmetic products. The affected products carries the code: HS5130 Jul 2025 395.00 1.98.

Amazon's codes are B0D5DBM7G7 for the shampoo and B0D5D9BF3Q for the conditioner. Pilgrim's shampoo and conditioners sell for between £12 and £20.

The OPSS said: "The product presents a serious chemical risk as the ingredients list indicates it contains Zinc Pyrithione, which is prohibited for use in cosmetic products. It also includes the following undeclared allergens: hydroxycitronellal, hexyl cinnamal, and limonene. This could lead to consumers with sensitivities using these products and having an allergic reaction."

They added: "The product does not meet the requirements of the Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on Cosmetic Products."

Zinc pyrithione (ZPT) is a coordination complex of zinc. It possesses powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is also used in paints to prevent algae and mildew growth, and in some skin treatments for acne or eczema.. For decades, it was considered a gold-standard ingredient. However, recent regulatory shifts - particularly in the European Union - have changed its status.

The primary reason for the "danger" label is that the EU classified ZPT as a substance presumed to be toxic to human reproduction. In animal studies, high doses of ZPT were linked to potential developmental issues. While the amount absorbed through shampoo is extremely low, the EU's "precautionary principle" led to a total ban on its use in cosmetics (effective March 2022).

Zinc pyrithione is incredibly effective at killing microorganisms. It is highly toxic to fish, algae, and other aquatic organisms. Because shampoo is washed down the drain, it eventually enters the water system, where it can disrupt local ecosystems. For those with sensitive skin, it can cause:

• Contact dermatitis
• Redness or burning sensations
• Eye irritation (if you get it in your eyes while rinsing).

In the United States, the FDA still considers zinc pyrithione safe for over-the-counter use in dandruff shampoos. The "danger" cited by the EU is based on high-exposure laboratory settings rather than typical daily use.

If you're looking to move away from ZPT, look for these ingredients in dandruff treatments:

• Ketoconazole: A potent antifungal.
• Selenium Sulfide: Effective, though it can be a bit "smelly."
• Salicylic Acid: Great for exfoliating flakes.
• Piroctone Olamine: The main replacement used in European shampoos.