Pyrithione is widely used for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It is commonly found in medicated shampoos and skin treatments to control dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp psoriasis. Its effectiveness against Malassezia yeast makes it a key ingredient in anti-dandruff formulations.

In industrial applications, pyrithione is used as a biocide in paints, coatings, and textiles to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Zinc pyrithione, in particular, is popular in water-based paints to provide long-term protection against microbial degradation. It is also incorporated into personal care products such as soaps and cleansers for its skin-conditioning and odor-control benefits. Due to its low toxicity to humans and strong efficacy, pyrithione remains a preferred choice in both consumer and industrial products.