
Interactions
- increased sensitivity to the sun
- staining of skin, nails, or clothing
- stinging
Warnings
- Rugby Sebex Shampoo.
- MG217 3% Coal Tar Formula Shampoo.
- P&S Shampoo.
- Denorex Extra Strength Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner.
What are the side effects of coal tar shampoo?
What are the uses of coal tar?
- Coal tar is a remedy for itching, scaling and skin diseases.
- It gets used to treat dandruff and lice and gets used for medicated shampoos and soaps.
- Various phenolic coal tars have analgesic properties.
- Coal tar gets used to protect and beautify pavements, roads and parking lot seal-coat products.
- Coal tar is flammable. ...
What is the strongest coal tar shampoo?
What does shampoo have tar? A coal tar shampoo is a shampoo with up to 5% coal tar added as an active ingredient. It’s is a much loved, much-used treatment that has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Despite its usage, there’s still an air of mystery with this ingredient.
What are the uses of coal tar?
What does shampoo have tar?
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Coal Tar Shampoo?
How is this medicine (Coal Tar Shampoo) best taken?
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Coal Tar Shampoo?
What are some other side effects of Coal Tar Shampoo?
What to do if you swallow coal tar shampoo?
How to get rid of coal tar?
Can you use coal tar shampoo on your skin?
See 4 more
About this website

What are the benefits of coal tar shampoo?
Uses. This medication is used on the hair/scalp to treat dandruff and other scaly, itchy skin conditions (psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis). Coal tar belongs to a class of drugs known as keratoplastics. It works by causing the skin to shed dead cells from its top layer and slow down the growth of skin cells.
How often should I use coal tar shampoo?
For shampoo dosage form: Adults—Use once a day to once a week or as directed by your doctor. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
Is coal tar healthy for hair?
In some cases, coal tar shampoo can aggravate an already sensitive scalp. Side effects include irritation, burning, redness, and itchiness. If you experience such effects, stop using the product and call your doctor. Coal tar shampoo can also increase your scalp's sensitivity to the sun, increasing your risk of burns.
What are the side effects of coal tar?
However, coal tar may have side effects, including unpleasant odor, skin irritation, rashes, swelling, burning or stinging, sun sensitivity, stains, and dry and brittle hair. Studies show that coal tar may cause cancer after exposure to very high concentrations of the substance.
Is coal tar an antifungal?
Coal tar is used in medicated shampoo, soap and ointment. It demonstrates antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and antiparasitic properties. It may be applied topically as a treatment for dandruff and psoriasis, and to kill and repel head lice.
Can I use conditioner after coal tar shampoo?
Coal tar shampoo works best if you leave it in for a full ten minutes after lathering. You can even rinse and repeat if necessary. Don't use conditioner afterwards.
Does tar shampoo cause hair loss?
This can cause temporary hair loss. Also, tar products can be effective, but they can stain fabric and gray hair. Other medical shampoos treat psoriasis, but they may not help with managing your hair otherwise.
Why is there no coal tar shampoo?
Even after further studies found that the links between coal tar and cancer were unfounded, there is still a shortage of manufacturers making coal tar shampoos. The pharmaceutical companies are accrediting this to two things: the cost of the specialist equipment. the shortage of the natural elements.
Will coal tar shampoo darken my hair?
If you have blond or other light-colored hair, shampoo with coal tar could make it darker. Treatments with coal tar also can stain clothes or skin. Some people don't like the way coal tar shampoos smell.
Is coal tar cancerous?
Occupational exposure to coal tar or coal-tar pitch increases the risk of skin cancer. Other types of cancer, including lung, bladder, kidney, and digestive tract cancer, have also been linked to occupational exposure to coal tar and coal-tar pitch.
Does coal tar reduce inflammation?
Coal tar products are most often used topically for a variety of skin conditions, including psoriasis. Coal tar is one of the oldest known treatments for psoriasis, as it reduces scaling, itching, and inflammation.
Is tar shampoo safe?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acknowledges that coal tar is carcinogenic but says that the over-the-counter coal-tar shampoos are safe for both adults and children. Shampoo makers agree.
What happens if you use T gel everyday?
Long-term use of this product can cause hair follicle problems (tar acne). Contact your doctor if you notice new skin bumps and/or acne in the treated area.
Which is better coal tar or salicylic acid?
Coal tar and salicylic acid address different issues. Coal tar appears to reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling as well as slowing down skin cell regeneration, while salicylic acid helps to dissolve dead skin cells. Research suggests that salicylic acid can improve the effectiveness of coal tar.
How do you use tar shampoo for psoriasis?
Shampoos with coal tar help with scaling, hardening, and thickening of the skin on your scalp by slowing down the growth of skin cells. They also can ease itching and make your scalp look better overall. To use this kind of shampoo, massage it into your scalp, leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes, and then rinse.
How often should you shampoo your hair?
every 2 to 3 daysFor the average person, every other day, or every 2 to 3 days, without washing is generally fine. “There is no blanket recommendation. If hair is visibly oily, scalp is itching, or there's flaking due to dirt,” those are signs it's time to shampoo, Goh says.
What Do I Need to Tell My Doctor Before I Take Coal Tar Shampoo?
1. If you have an allergy to coal tar or any other part of coal tar shampoo. 2. If you are allergic to any drugs like this one, any other drugs, fo...
What Are Some Things I Need to Know Or Do While I Take Coal Tar Shampoo?
1. Tell all of your health care providers that you take coal tar shampoo. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists. 2. This me...
How Is This Medicine (Coal Tar Shampoo) Best Taken?
Use coal tar shampoo as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely. 1. Do not take coal tar shampoo...
What Are Some Side Effects That I Need to Call My Doctor About Right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor o...
What Are Some Other Side Effects of Coal Tar Shampoo?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help i...
How Do I Store and/or Throw Out Coal Tar Shampoo?
1. Store at room temperature. 2. Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom. 3. Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the rea...
Over The Counter Availability of Coal Tar Products
There’s been a number of controversies over coal tar in recent decades.Coal tar contains as many as 10,000 different chemicals, but only about half...
Possible Side Effects of Coal Tar Shampoo Treatment
Although most people do not experience significant side effects, coal tar shampoos may cause skin irritation or rashes that were not present before...
Coal Tar For Seborrheic Dermatitis
Although the root cause of Seborrheic Dermatitis is still unknown, recent research suggests seb derm to be associated with a type of fungus called...
12 Best Coal Tar Shampoos for 2022 - Healthline
Price: $ Key ingredients: 3% coal tar Free of: N/A Pros: It has a higher coal tar strength compared with other OTC shampoos. Cons: It contains parabens, sulfates, and fragrances. MG217 psoriasis ...
Polytar Scalp Shampoo coal tar solution - Boots
Hazards and Cautions. Avoid using the product if you are sensitive to any of the ingredients. Tar products may cause skin irritation, rashes, and rarely, photosensitivity.
The 9 Best Coal Tar Shampoos for Treating Dandruff And Psoriasis
We may still not understand all of the 10000+ chemicals present in coal tar, it may have been used since biblical times to treat skin conditions, and it may have recently undergone a cancer scare causing the product to briefly disappear from our shelves, but coal tar remains on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines, is an FDA approved treatment for seb derm and ...
Coal Tar Shampoos: the Good, the Bad and the Smelly
Several of our readers have mentioned that they use coal tar shampoo as an over-the-counter (“OTC”) treatment to control their scalp psoriasis, scalp eczema and dandruff. Coal tar is one of the few old-fashioned psoriasis treatments that has stood the test of time. While many people have seen positive results from coal
Coal tar products | Prescribing information | Psoriasis | CKS | NICE
Coal tar products, Prescribing information, Psoriasis, CKS. The method of application depends on the coal tar product: Creams, ointments, and pastes — these are generally applied by wiping onto the entire plaque once or twice a day (away from flexural areas).
DHS Tar Shampoo Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com
Coal tar side effects. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.. DHS Tar Shampoo may cause serious side effects. Stop using DHS Tar Shampoo and call your doctor at once if you have:
How to Use Coal Tar Shampoo?
Coal tar shampoo is safe and advisable as long you follow the correct dosage. It is best to stick to the guidelines on the label. You should also consult a general physician or a specialist regarding the same as coal tar shampoo is known to cause side effects.
Why Choose Coal Tar Shampoo?
Coal tar shampoo is a standard medical treatment for psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, and other skin diseases for decades. It is known to help with the hardening and thickening of the scalp skin to decelerate the growth of skin cells. It improves the composure of your hair and scalp while also reducing itching due to dead skin.
Who Can Use Coal Tar Shampoo?
Coal tar shampoo is safe and effective for anyone above two years of age. For infants under the age of two, the efficacy is undetermined. The core constituents include coal tar paired with salicylic acid.
FAQs
Ans. It is best to inform your doctor about any allergies, as the compound may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger reactions. Pharmacists can tell you about the chemical composition before your purchase.
Conclusion
Coal tar shampoo may require caution and proper procedure for practical application, but it is a stepping stone for better hair care. The key is to avoid using too little or too much by sticking to the prescribed dosage. Increased amounts also strengthen the medication, which may render the treatment counter-productive.
How do you get rid of the coal tar shampoo smell?
Some brands contain added fragrances to help mask the strong smell of coal tar. However, coal tar has a strong scent that may still linger despite fragrances. Moreover, sensitive skin may react negatively to perfumes added to shampoo.
What is DHS tar shampoo?
DHS Tar Shampoo is a gentler formula of coal tar shampoo that’s designed to help remove flakes while adding moisture to your hair.
Will coal tar shampoo bleach my hair?
Coal tar shampoo isn’t recommended for color-treated hair, as well as naturally gray or blonde hair colors. This is because coal tar may discolor light-colored hair.
Can using coal tar shampoo lead to hair loss?
It’s not clear whether long-term, daily use of coal tar shampoo leads to hair loss. However, hair loss itself may be seen in scalp psoriasis due to dry hair and from scratching your scalp.
What type of conditioner should I use?
Ideally, you should opt for a moisturizing conditioner to counteract the drying effects of coal tar.
What is the best shampoo for psoriasis?
Neutrogena T-Gel Therapeutic Shampoo is perhaps one of the best-known brands of coal tar shampoos, and is designed for treating psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.
What is a medicated shampoo?
This medicated shampoo is considered a maximum strength product that helps control scales and treats psoriasis symptoms.
How does coal tar shampoo work?
Coal tar shampoo is a keratolytic. It works by slowing bacterial growth and loosening and softening scales and crust. While the concentration of tar varies from product to product, the greater the concentration of tar, the more effective the shampoo.
Is coal tar good for psoriasis?
The Good. Coal tar products are regulated by the F DA and are a recognized treatment for psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, “Tar can help slow the rapid growth of skin cells and restore the skin’s appearance. In addition, it can help reduce the inflammation, itching and scaling of psoriasis.”.
Does coal tar stain clothes?
Also, be aware that coal tar may stain clothing and sheets.
Is coal tar shampoo good for eczema?
Several of our readers have mentioned that they use coal tar shampoo as an over-the-counter (“OTC”) treatment to control their scalp psoriasis, scalp eczema and dandruff. Coal tar is one of the few old-fashioned psoriasis treatments that has stood the test of time.
Is coal tar bad for you?
The Bad. As with most treatments, the use of coal tar does not come without potential risks and side effects. According to the NPF, coal tar may irritate, redden or dry the skin. It also makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight. However, use of sunscreen and avoiding the sun within 24 hours of using coal tar products may help control sun exposure ...
Can you use coal tar shampoo more than once a week?
However, we would not use the coal tar shampoos more than once a week, limit our sun exposure, and mix it up with all-natural shampoos and scalp treatments. Coal tar shampoos are not right for everyone. If you are interested in trying coal tar shampoos, always consult a doctor prior to use. So tell us: have you seen positive results ...
What percentage of coal tar is safe?
Salicylic Acid to enhance the overall performance of the shampoo. The FDA maintains that OTC products with coal tar concentrations between 0.5 percent and 5 percent are safe.
How many chemicals are in coal tar?
Coal tar contains as many as 10,000 different chemicals, but only about half of these have actually been identified. Many people have expressed concern over the unknown components that could be potential carcinogens or cancer-causing substances.
What is the best shampoo for dandruff?
DHS Fragrance-Free Coal Tar Shampoo is our favorite shampoo that contains this most enigmatic of anti-dandruff active ingredients and truly deserves the accolade of “Best Coal Tar Shampoo”.
What shampoo is used for psoriasis?
Most shampoos aimed at treating seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis are targeted at mild to moderate cases. Sebcur-T Medicated Shampoo is different. Sebcur-T Medicated Shampoo contains a very helpful concentration of 10% coal tar solution and 4% w/w salicylic acid. This does come at a cost.
What is the best shampoo for psoriasis?
Psoriatrax Coal Tar Psoriasis Relief shampoo a 5% coal tar solution - the highest concentration deemed safe by the FDA.
What is capasal shampoo?
Capasal is a combination shampoo, combining coal tar, salicylic acid and coconut oil in a unique highly targetted shampoo for mild to moderate scalp psoriasis sufferers. It would have likely been a winner if the formula didn't contain so many harsh surfactants, but that aside this is still an outstanding shampoo.
Is coal tar shampoo stronger than 5%?
It is worth noting that stronger isn’t necessarily better when it comes to a coal tar shampoo. Quite the opposite in fact. A recent study suggests that a 1% coal tar solution is more effective than a 5% solution when treating mild to moderate psoriasis [3].
What is coal tar used for?
Dermatologists prescribe coal tar to patients with skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, to reduce redness, itching, and inflammation. Skin care specialists may still use the substance in its crude form to treat people with chronic plaque psoriasis. In these situations, they may prescribe a 2–5% coal tar in an emollient base using dressings ...
How effective is coal tar?
The effectiveness of coal tar treatments varies, and a person cannot tell how effective a product will be simply from the amount of coal tar it contains. One study found that patients using a lotion containing 1% coal tar extract had better results than people using a lotion with 5% coal tar extract.
Why is coal tar added to the psoriasis notice?
Authorities required manufacturers to add this notice due to animal studies, where researchers exposed animals to far higher amounts of coal tar than people would normally use to treat psoriasis.
Does coal tar help with eczema?
People use coal tar to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. It can also help reduce inflammation, scaling, and itching. Crude coal tar has a strong and unpleasant smell — dermatologists do not often use it. However, people can find a more refined version of the product in shampoos, creams, gels, soaks, and lotions.
Does coal tar hurt?
Coal tar can effectively treat symptoms of skin conditions, including itching, inflammation, thickened skin, and hard-to-treat sole and palm psoriasis. People can also use it as a topical treatment. However, coal tar may have side effects, including unpleasant odor, skin irritation, rashes, swelling, burning or stinging, sun sensitivity, stains, ...
Is coal tar safe to use?
It may cause some side effects, while certain treatments require that they carry a cancer warning in some locations. However, experts generally consider it safe to use.
Can a dermatologist prescribe coal tar?
Dermatologists may prescribe coal tar treatments alone or as part of a treatment plan that includes phototherapy, other medications, or both.
What is coal tar foam used for?
Zeichner J. A. (2010). Use of Topical Coal Tar Foam for the Treatment of Psoriasis in Difficult-to-treat Areas. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic dermatology, 3(9), 37–40. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2945847/
How long does it take for a scalp to heal after shampooing?
Following that, your scalp should remain free of plaque and residue for at least a few weeks until you might need to reach for it again, so consider this more of a treatment than a daily shampoo.
Does menthol shampoo help with psoriasis?
So if you have a particularly sensitive nose, you may prefer a fragrance-free shampoo or even one with menthol, which can help cover up the medicinal odor, and, according to Dr. Shamban, is also great to further help with itch relief.
Is coal tar shampoo good for psoriasis?
Coal tar has been used for centuries to address various skin conditions, and it's especially effective in hair care products as a soothing agent for symptoms of psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff. However, the best coal tar shampoos will be fast-acting and able to effectively treat both itchy and flaky skin. Bonus points if it has an endorsement of the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) on the label and/or comes highly recommended by a dermatologist.
Does menthol help with coal tar?
Plus, the invigorating menthol scent also helps counterbalance any noticeable coal tar smell. Because it's formulated as a shampoo and conditioner in one, you're basically getting two products here — and its conditioning properties help prevent it from drying out your hair.
Is Neutrogena shampoo safe for psoriasis?
Shamban, and thousands of Amazon shoppers (it has earned a five-star rating from more than 6,700 users). The effective formula is intended to be nonirritating and safe for people with psoriasis, plus it's gentle enough to be used every day and starts to work after just one use. If there’s one downside, it’s that there is a distinct medicinal smell, however, with so much positive feedback surrounding this shampoo, it’s worth it for the results.
Does coal tar help with itch?
Ava Shamban, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist. "Coal tar has anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties, so as it slows down the growth of cells, it eliminates discomfort from inflammation and itching ," she explains to Bustle, adding that coal tar can also help shed the skin and slow down the production of flakes, be it from dandruff or from psoriasis-induced scales caused by plaque buildup.
What is coal tar used for?
You’ll find coal tar in many different products used to treat psoriasis. Coal tar can be an effective treatment for scalp psoriasis and is found in psoriasis shampoos. You’ll also find it in bath solutions, ointments, and many other forms.
How long has coal tar been used for psoriasis?
Prescribing coal tar: Dermatologists have been prescribing coal tar for more than 100 years to treat psoriasis.
How to increase the effectiveness of coal tar?
To increase the effectiveness of coal tar, your dermatologist may have you wrap the treated area. Only do this when your dermatologist recommends it. Wrapping greatly increases the strength of coal tar.
Why does tanning bed cause rash?
Cause a rash or acne-like breakout. Lead to easily burned skin from the sun or a tanning bed because it makes your skin more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light. Stain skin, light-colored hair, and clothing. Leave an unpleasant odor. Make hair dry and brittle when used to treat scalp psoriasis. Worsen psoriasis.
Can you use coal tar shampoo on your scalp?
When using a coal tar shampoo to treat scalp psoriasis, make sure that the shampoo gets on your scalp. Coal tar can also be applied to the skin with psoriasis. When treating the skin, you massage the coal tar into the psoriasis. Your dermatologist will tell you how often to do this. To increase the effectiveness of coal tar, ...
Does coal tar help with scalp psoriasis?
Coal tar can clear scalp psoriasis and increase remissions on the scalp. How well coal-tar products work varies. You cannot always tell which product will work best by looking at how much coal tar the product contains.
Is coal tar effective?
Effectiveness: Coal tar can be very effective. Some people see complete clearing with coal tar and long remissions (time without psoriasis).
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Coal Tar Shampoo?
Tell all of your health care providers that you take coal tar shampoo. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
How is this medicine (Coal Tar Shampoo) best taken?
Use coal tar shampoo as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Coal Tar Shampoo?
If you have an allergy to coal tar or any other part of coal tar shampoo.
What are some other side effects of Coal Tar Shampoo?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
What to do if you swallow coal tar shampoo?
If coal tar shampoo is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using coal tar shampoo while you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.
How to get rid of coal tar?
Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen and wear clothing and eyewear that protects you from the sun. Do not use coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) unless told to do so by the doctor. Use of other skin products while using coal tar shampoo may cause more irritation.
Can you use coal tar shampoo on your skin?
Use of other skin products while using coal tar shampoo may cause more irritation.
