Zinc pyrithione is the active ingredient present in a variety of mainstream anti-dandruf shampoos such as Head and Shoulders, Tigi Bed Head Shampoo, Herbal Essences, Selsun Salon, Redken, Pantene Pro V and Biolage. Due to its anti-fungal and antibacterial nature, zinc pyrithione has been confirmed as an effective treatment for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

Similar scalp treatments include chloroxine and selenium sulfide.

Zinc pyrithione also seems to slow the production of skin cells, which is one of the main symptoms of psoriasis.

Skin Cap (available through BeautyWorks.com) is one of the main products you can buy over the counter that offers therapeutic concentrations of zinc pyrithione for the purpose of treating psoriasis.  It comes in the form of aerosol spray, shampoo and lotion.  Recommended dosage is twice daily.  Several sources report dramatic reductions in scaling, itchiness and inflammation within a few weeks of using this compound.

Zinc pyrithione is intended for topical use only.

Side effects of this product seem to be mild, but you should consult your dermatologist to make sure.