This section focuses on an overview of piroctone olamine as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to piroctone olamine manufacturers, supply chain issues, piroctone olamine suppliers, and piroctone olamine prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality piroctone olamine in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on CAS 68890-66-4.
Table of Contents
What is Piroctone Olamine?
Piroctone olamine, also known as octopirox, is a synthetic antifungal compound that has become increasingly important in medical, personal care, and cosmetic applications. Known for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and gentle nature, it has found its way into numerous personal care products and therapeutic formulations worldwide. Piroctone olamine is the ethanolamine salt of piroctone. It was first developed in the 1970s as part of research into new antifungal agents. Piroctone olamine works by disrupting the cellular processes of fungi and certain bacteria. It interferes with fungal metabolism by inhibiting key enzymes involved in cellular respiration and energy production. Piroctone olamine 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. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved piroctone olamine to be used in the pharmaceutical, personal care, and cosmetic industries. It has also been evaluated by relevant regulatory authorities like SCCNFP, EUR-Lex, ECHACHEM, and GSRS. For cosmetic applications, piroctone olamine users typically follow International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) guidelines and comply with regional cosmetic regulations such as the EU Cosmetics Regulation or FDA guidelines in the United States.
CAS No.: 68890-66-4
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of piroctone olamine is 68890-66-4.
CAS Name: Piroctone olamine
Molecular Formula: C14H23NO2.C2H7NO
Molecular Mass: 298.42
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder
Solubility: Easily soluble in ethanol (10%); Insoluble in water, 18.75 mg/L @ 25 °C (est).
pH stability: Stable in slightly acidic to neutral conditions
Other Names:
♦ 68890-66-4
♦ Octopirox
♦ Kopirox
♦ Octopyrox
♦ Piroctone ethanolamine
♦ Piroctone ethanolamine salt
Bulk Piroctone Olamine Manufacturers
The global piroctone olamine manufacturing sector consists of specialized chemical companies that focus on active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and cosmetic actives. Top piroctone olamine manufacturers like Clariant AG typically operate under strict quality control standards, as piroctone olamine is used in products that come into direct contact with consumers’ skin and scalp. Major manufacturing regions include Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America, with each region serving both domestic and international markets. European manufacturers often emphasize regulatory compliance with EU cosmetic regulations, while Asian producers frequently focus on cost-effective production to serve price-sensitive markets. Manufacturing facilities typically employ multi-step synthesis processes that require specialized equipment and expertise in organic chemistry. Bulk piroctone olamine manufacturers must adhere to stringent quality standards that vary by intended application and target market.
Sinofi is a bulk piroctone olamine manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of personal care and cosmetic grades of piroctone olamine. We supply high-quality piroctone olamine at bulk prices and serve pharmaceutical, personal care, and cosmetic manufacturers worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Piroctone Olamine
The manufacturing of piroctone olamine involves a multi-step synthetic process that requires careful control of reaction conditions, purification steps, and quality assurance measures. It includes the following steps:
- Step 1: Reacting isononanoyl chloride and 3,3-dimethacrylate methyl under the catalysis of a solid acid catalyst to obtain 3,7,9,9-tetramethyl-2-decene-5-keto acid methyl ester;
- Step 2: Subjecting the 3,7,9,9-tetramethyl-2-decene-5-keto acid methyl ester obtained by S1 to a ring-closing reaction to obtain 4-methyl-6-2-pyrone;
- Step 3: Mixing the 4-methyl-6-2-pyrone obtained by S2 with hydroxylamine hydrochloride for hydroxylation reaction to obtain 1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2-pyridone;
- Step 4: Subjecting the 1-hydroxy-4-methyl-6-(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl)-2-pyridone obtained by S3 to a salt-forming reaction with ethanolamine, obtaining piroctone olamine.
The manufacturing of piroctone olamine represents a sophisticated chemical synthesis process that requires careful attention to reaction conditions, purification methods, and quality control measures. Success in production depends on maintaining consistent process parameters, implementing robust quality systems, and adhering to regulatory requirements. The future of piroctone olamine manufacturing will likely see continued emphasis on sustainability, process intensification, and digital technologies to enhance production efficiency while maintaining the high-quality standards required for consumer safety and satisfaction.
Bulk Piroctone Olamine Suppliers
The global piroctone olamine supply is dominated by specialized chemical companies in Europe, India, and China. Top piroctone olamine suppliers like Clariant AG provide high-quality piroctone olamine, leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies and strict regulatory frameworks. They often command premium pricing but deliver superior product consistency and comprehensive technical support. Many European suppliers also offer custom formulation services and regulatory assistance for multiple markets. Asian piroctone olamine suppliers, particularly those based in China and India, have expanded their market presence by offering competitive pricing. Many have invested significantly in manufacturing infrastructure and quality systems to meet international standards.
Sinofi is a bulk piroctone olamine supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality piroctone olamine. We sell different grades of piroctone olamine at wholesale prices to pharmaceutical, personal care, and cosmetic manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Piroctone Olamine
The piroctone olamine supply chain represents a sophisticated network that balances complex manufacturing requirements with growing global demand.
Supply Chain Structure Overview
Raw Material Suppliers
The piroctone olamine supply chain begins with the procurement of two primary raw materials: isononanoyl chloride and 3,3-dimethacrylate methyl.
Piroctone Olamine Manufacturers
This tier involves specialized chemical companies that synthesize piroctone olamine through a complex manufacturing process. These manufacturers have strong R&D capabilities and a global distribution network
Distributors and Trading Companies
- Global chemical distributors: Collaborative networks with Indian and Chinese manufacturers.
- Specialized chemical trading companies.
End-User Industries
Personal Care and Cosmetics (Primary Market)
- Anti-dandruff shampoo manufacturers.
- Hair care product companies.
- Skincare formulation companies.
- Premium beauty brands.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Topical antifungal medication manufacturers.
- Dermatological product companies.
As the market continues to expand, driven by increasing consumer awareness and expanding applications, supply chain resilience and innovation will become increasingly critical. Success in this market requires understanding the intricate relationships between raw material suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and end users, while navigating regulatory requirements and market dynamics.
Wholesale and Buy Piroctone Olamine in Bulk
The piroctone olamine market continues to evolve, driven by increasing consumer awareness of scalp health and growing demands. Bulk purchasing of piroctone olamine offers significant advantages for manufacturers and formulators in the pharmaceutical, personal care, and cosmetic industries. The cost savings, supply security, and operational efficiencies make it an attractive option for piroctone olamine buyers with adequate storage facilities and consumption volumes. However, success requires careful supplier management and a thorough understanding of regulatory requirements. Selecting the right bulk piroctone olamine supplier requires careful evaluation of quality standards, regulatory compliance, manufacturing capabilities, and technical support services. While price remains an important factor, successful partnerships are built on reliability, quality, consistency, and shared commitment to regulatory compliance and customer satisfaction.
Advantages of Wholesale and Bulk Purchasing
Cost Efficiency
Purchasing piroctone olamine in bulk quantities typically reduces the per-unit cost significantly. Manufacturers and formulators can achieve cost savings of 20-40% compared to smaller quantity purchases, depending on volume and supplier relationships.
Supply Chain Stability
Bulk purchasing of piroctone olamine ensures consistent supply availability, protecting against potential shortages that could disrupt production schedules. This is particularly important given the specialized nature of piroctone olamine and the limited number of certified manufacturers.
Quality Consistency
Purchasing larger quantities from the same batch ensures consistent quality parameters across production runs, reducing formulation variability and maintaining product performance standards.
As a bulk piroctone olamine manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality piroctone olamine for the pharmaceutical, personal care, and cosmetic industries. We also wholesale piroctone olamine to small customers. Normally, they want to buy piroctone olamine in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale piroctone olamine at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Piroctone Olamine Prices (USD/Kg)
Personal Care Grade Piroctone Olamine Prices (GC Purity: >=99%)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 13 USD | Express |
| 500g | 63 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 90 USD/Kg | Express |
| 20Kg | 30% cheaper | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Currently, the premium European piroctone olamine price is $40–65 per kilogram, with purity, regulatory compliance, and supply chain risk determining which price point fits each buyer’s needs. The piroctone olamine market presents a dynamic pricing landscape characterized by steady growth. The EU ban on zinc pyrithione in March 2022 has fundamentally reshaped the anti-dandruff ingredients market, positioning piroctone olamine as the leading replacement active and driving prices upward across North America and Europe. The piroctone olamine prices are expected to remain relatively stable in the near term; long-term growth prospects remain positive, driven by increasing awareness of scalp health and the compound’s superior efficacy compared to traditional alternatives.
The future of piroctone olamine pricing will largely depend on technological advancements in production processes, regulatory developments, and the ongoing shift toward premium personal care products. Market participants should remain vigilant to these trends while leveraging opportunities in high-growth segments and emerging markets.
Furthermore, the above price quotations of piroctone olamine, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of piroctone olamine may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of piroctone olamine will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Piroctone Olamine Uses
Hair Care Uses
Anti-Dandruff Shampoos
Piroctone olamine is most commonly recognized for its use in anti-dandruff shampoos. It effectively targets Malassezia furfur, the yeast responsible for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Unlike some harsher anti-dandruff ingredients, piroctone olamine provides gentle yet effective treatment suitable for regular use.
Scalp Treatments
Beyond basic dandruff control, piroctone olamine is incorporated into specialized scalp treatments designed to address various scalp conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis and scalp irritation.
Hair Growth Products
Some hair care formulations include piroctone olamine to maintain a healthy scalp environment that supports optimal hair growth by preventing fungal interference with hair follicles.
Skincare Uses
Anti-Acne Products
The antimicrobial properties of piroctone olamine make it valuable in acne treatment formulations, where it helps control the bacterial populations that contribute to acne development.
Body Washes and Cleansers
Many body washes incorporate piroctone olamine to provide ongoing protection against fungal and bacterial overgrowth, particularly beneficial for individuals prone to body acne or fungal skin conditions.
Foot Care Products
Given its antifungal properties, piroctone olamine is commonly found in foot care products designed to prevent and treat athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Cosmetic Uses
Product Preservation
Piroctone olamine serves as a preservative booster in cosmetic formulations, helping to extend product shelf life and maintain stability by preventing microbial contamination.
Deodorants and Antiperspirants
Its antimicrobial properties make it useful in deodorant formulations where controlling bacterial growth is essential for odor prevention.
Piroctone Olamine Benefits
Antifungal Benefits
The most significant benefit of piroctone olamine lies in its potent antifungal properties. It effectively combats Malassezia species, the yeast responsible for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and various scalp irritations. By inhibiting fungal growth, it addresses the root cause of these conditions rather than merely treating symptoms.
Anti-Dandruff Benefits
Clinical studies demonstrate that piroctone olamine significantly reduces dandruff formation and associated scalp flaking. Regular use can lead to measurable improvements in scalp health, with many users experiencing reduced itching and visible flakes within weeks of consistent application.
Antimicrobial Benefits
Beyond its antifungal capabilities, piroctone olamine exhibits broad antimicrobial activity against various bacteria that can contribute to scalp and skin infections. This dual action makes it particularly valuable in comprehensive skincare formulations.
Gentle Yet Effective Formula
Unlike some traditional antifungal agents that can be harsh or irritating, piroctone olamine is known for its gentleness. It provides therapeutic benefits without causing excessive dryness or irritation, making it suitable for regular use and sensitive skin types.
Safety and Tolerance Profile
Piroctone olamine boasts an excellent safety record when used as directed. Clinical trials indicate minimal side effects, with most users experiencing no adverse reactions. The compound is generally well-tolerated across different skin types and ages, though individuals with known sensitivities should perform patch tests before full application.
The ingredient is considered safe for long-term use, unlike some antifungal agents that may lose effectiveness over time or cause skin sensitization with prolonged application.
Comparing Piroctone Olamine to Other Antifungal Agents
When compared to other common antifungal ingredients like zinc pyrithione, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole, piroctone olamine offers several advantages. It tends to be less irritating while maintaining comparable efficacy. Additionally, it doesn’t cause the hair discoloration sometimes associated with selenium sulfide, nor does it require the prescription status of ketoconazole. The compound also demonstrates better cosmetic elegance in formulations, meaning products containing piroctone olamine often feel more pleasant to use and don’t leave residues or strong odors.
Piroctone Olamine Used in Personal Care Products
An Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Include the following ingredients (by weight):
Phase A: Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, 0.1%; Sodium fatty alcohol ether sulfate (AES), 20%; Sodium ammonium lauryl sulfate, 5%; Sodium acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, 0.1%; Piroctone olamine, 0.5%; Pepper extract, 1%; Avocado oil, 1%;
The first conditioning agent is 2.5%, including: Polyquaternium-10, 0.5%; Cetearyl alcohol, 0.5%; Salicylic acid, 0.5%; Allantoin, 0.5%; DL-Panthenol, 0.5%.
Surfactant 6%, includes: Sodium lauroyamphoacetate, 5%; Coconut oil fatty acid monoethanolamide (CEMA), 1%.
Carbomer, 0.5%.
Phase B: DMDM hydantoin, 0.5%;
Second conditioning agent, 4.5%, includes: Monoglyceride citrate, 1%; PEG-7 Glyceryl cocoate 122, 1%; Arginine, 0.5%; Guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, 1%.
Softener, 1%, includes: Polydimethylsiloxane, 0.2%; C12-15 Pareth-3, 0.3%; TEA dodecylbenzenesulfonate, 0.5%.
Fragrance, 0.5%.
Phase C: Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, 5%; Selenium sulfide, 2%;
And the balance of water to 100%
In conclusion, piroctone olamine represents a significant advancement in cosmetic chemistry, offering effective antimicrobial protection while maintaining the gentleness required for consumer personal care products. Its versatility and proven safety profile have made it a preferred ingredient for formulators seeking reliable antifungal and antimicrobial solutions. As a bulk manufacturer and supplier of piroctone olamine in China, we sell different grades of piroctone olamine at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.