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Quick answer: Coal tar carries the heavier risk profile. Coal tar is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Zinc pyrithione is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Coal tar | Zinc pyrithione |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | medium |
| Banned in | European Union | European Union |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | cmr | cmr |
| Where it hides | anti-dandruff shampoo, hair dye, psoriasis products | anti-dandruff shampoo, anti-acne products |
Coal tar is a complex byproduct of coal processing used in dandruff and psoriasis products and dyes.
Zinc pyrithione is an antifungal and antibacterial active in dandruff shampoos.
Coal tar: A known human carcinogen. Restricted in the EU (banned in hair dye); permitted in US OTC products.
Zinc pyrithione: Reclassified as a reproductive toxicant in the EU and banned as a cosmetic preservative in 2022; still a key US OTC dandruff active.
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