Coal tar: What does it treat and is it safe to use?

Coal tar is one of those ingredients that sounds like it belongs in a railroad yard, not your shower caddy.
And yetthere it is, quietly doing its job in medicated shampoos, creams, and ointments for some stubborn
skin and scalp problems. If you’ve ever dealt with itchy flakes, thick patches, or a scalp that behaves like
it’s auditioning for a snow-globe commercial, coal tar has probably popped up on your radar.

This guide breaks down what coal tar treats, how it works, how to use it without turning your towels into
“modern art,” and what the safety conversation actually looks like in real life. Spoiler: it’s not as scary
as the namebut it isn’t a free-for-all, either.

What is coal tar (in plain English)?

Coal tar is a thick, dark mixture created during the processing of certain types of coal. In skin care and
dermatology, it’s been used for a long timewell over a centurybecause it can calm inflammation, reduce
itching, and help slow down the “too-fast” skin-cell turnover that drives some scaly conditions.

In over-the-counter (OTC) products, coal tar shows up in controlled concentrations and in user-friendly
formats like shampoos, creams, lotions, gels, and ointments. It’s not the same thing as industrial exposure
in heavy manufacturing settings, which matters a lot when people ask the big question: “Is this safe?”

What does coal tar treat?

Coal tar is used for several common skin and scalp conditionsespecially those that involve inflammation,
itching, redness, and flaking. Here are the big ones.

1) Psoriasis

Coal tar is most famously used for psoriasis, including scalp psoriasis. Psoriasis can cause thick, raised
plaques with silvery scale, and it often itches or burns. Coal tar may help soften scale, reduce itch, and
slow the rapid growth of skin cells that contributes to plaque buildup.

Example: Someone with plaques on the elbows, knees, or scalp may use a coal tar ointment for body plaques or
a coal tar shampoo for scalp symptoms, often as part of a broader plan that includes moisturizers and other
targeted treatments.

2) Dandruff

Dandruff isn’t just “dry scalp.” It often involves faster shedding of scalp skin cells, irritation, and
flaking. Coal tar shampoos can help reduce flaking and itching, especially when dandruff is persistent or
keeps coming back like an uninvited party guest.

3) Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory condition that can affect the scalp and sometimes the face
(eyebrows, sides of the nose) or chest. It can look like redness plus greasy or dry flaking. Coal tar can
help reduce scaling and itch in mild-to-moderate cases, particularly on the scalp.

4) Eczema and other itchy, scaly rashes

Some coal tar preparations are used for eczema (atopic dermatitis) and other itchy, irritated skin
conditionsthough eczema treatment often focuses first on gentle skin care, moisturizers, and anti-inflammatory
options. Coal tar may be recommended when itching and scaling are hard to control, but it’s not always the first pick.

How coal tar works (why your skin calms down)

Coal tar has several effects that can be useful in scaly inflammatory skin conditions:

• Slows skin-cell overgrowth: Helpful when skin is producing and shedding cells too quickly (a hallmark of psoriasis).
• Helps loosen and soften scale: Makes thick buildup easier to wash or gently remove.
• Reduces itch and inflammation: Can improve comfortespecially when the itch is the worst part.
• Supports symptom control over time: Some people find it helps reduce recurrence when used consistently as directed.

It’s not magic. It doesn’t “cure” chronic conditions like psoriasis. But it can be a practical tool in a
long-term management plan.

What coal tar products look like (and how strong they are)

Coal tar shows up in multiple formats. The right one depends on where symptoms are and how much mess you’re
willing to tolerate.

Common forms

• Shampoos: For dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp psoriasis.
• Creams/ointments/lotions: For body plaques or irritated patches.
• Gels/foams: Sometimes preferred for hairy areas or areas where you don’t want thick grease.
• Soaps/washes: Used on affected body areas in place of regular soap in some formulations.

Typical OTC concentration range

In the U.S., coal tar in OTC products for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis is commonly found
in the 0.5% to 5% range. Higher concentrations can be more potent, but also more irritating
and… let’s be honest… more likely to leave your clothes looking like they lost a fight with a printer cartridge.

How to use coal tar (the “don’t hate it after day one” tips)

Always follow the product label directions or a clinician’s instructions. That said, these practical
guidelines can help you use coal tar effectively and comfortably.

If you’re using a coal tar shampoo

1. Wet hair and scalp thoroughly.
2. Massage the shampoo into the scalp (focus on skin, not just hair).
3. Leave it on for a few minutes if the label recommends it (many do).
4. Rinse well. Then rinse again for good luck and better towel outcomes.
5. Use on the schedule recommended (often a couple times per week, not necessarily daily).

If you’re using a cream/ointment/lotion

• Apply a thin layer to affected areas (more is not always better).
• Wash hands after applying unless your hands are the treatment area.
• Protect clothing and bedding if the product stainsold T-shirts and “sacrificial towels” are your friends.

Sun caution (yes, even if you “never burn”)

Coal tar can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight for a period after application. That means you may
burn more easily. If you’re using it on exposed areas, consider timing your application (like evening use),
and be more deliberate about sun protection.

Is coal tar safe to use?

For many people, coal tar is considered a reasonable option when used as directedespecially in OTC-strength
preparations. But “safe” in skincare always means “safe for the right person, used the right way.”

Common side effects

• Skin irritation: redness, stinging, or drynessespecially early on or with higher strengths.
• Folliculitis-like bumps: occasional inflammation around hair follicles.
• Odor: unmistakable. Some people say “campfire.” Others say “freshly paved parking lot.” Both can be true.
• Staining: can discolor clothing, bedding, and sometimes skin temporarily.
• Hair discoloration: some products can temporarily discolor light, bleached, or tinted hair.

Who should be extra cautious or ask first?

Coal tar is not a “try it everywhere, all at once” ingredient. Consider talking with a clinician before use if:

• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding (data is limited and some references recommend avoiding or choosing alternatives, especially while nursing).
• You’re treating a large body area or have widespread symptoms.
• You have broken, severely inflamed, or infected skin where absorption and irritation risk may be higher.
• You’re treating sensitive areas like groin/genital skin unless specifically directed.
• You’re using other psoriasis therapies (particularly those involving ultraviolet light) unless directed by a clinician.

The cancer question: what people worry about (and what matters)

Coal tar and related industrial substances are associated with increased cancer risk in certain occupational
settingsespecially when exposure is intense, prolonged, and involves inhalation of coal tar pitch volatiles.
That’s the basis for “carcinogen” classifications you may see discussed.

Here’s the key nuance: occupational exposure is not the same as topical, OTC-strength use.
In dermatology, coal tar has been used for a long time, and many clinicians consider it acceptable when used
appropriately. Still, caution is built into labeling guidance: avoid prolonged use without medical advice,
and don’t combine with certain light-based therapies unless directed.

If you’re the type who wants “zero controversy” in your medicine cabinet, coal tar may feel emotionally
complicated. If you’re the type who wants “something that actually calms this itch,” coal tar can feel like
an old reliable tool. The best choice is the one that balances benefits, comfort, and your personal risk tolerance
ideally with guidance if symptoms are persistent or severe.

Coal tar vs. other common OTC scalp and skin ingredients

Coal tar is one option in a crowded lineup. Depending on your symptoms, another active ingredient might be
a better first stepor a helpful partner.

• Salicylic acid: helps lift and loosen scale (great for buildup); often paired with other treatments.
• Antifungal ingredients: often used when yeast overgrowth plays a role in seborrheic dermatitis.
• Other anti-dandruff actives: help reduce flaking through different mechanisms.
• Topical steroids (prescription or OTC in low strength): reduce inflammation quickly, but long-term use needs guidance.

Translation: if coal tar isn’t your match (or you hate the smell), you’re not out of options.

How long does it take to work?

Some people notice less itch and flaking within a week or two, especially with consistent use. For psoriasis
plaques, visible improvement can take longer. Coal tar often works best when you’re patient and steadythink
“marathon,” not “one-and-done.”

When to see a clinician

Consider getting medical guidance if:

• Your symptoms are severe, painful, or spreading rapidly.
• You have bleeding, cracking, swelling, pus, or signs of infection.
• You’ve tried OTC treatments for a few weeks with no improvement.
• You’re pregnant or breastfeeding and need symptom control.
• You suspect psoriasis but haven’t been diagnosed (because other conditions can mimic it).

Bottom line

Coal tar is an old-school, science-backed option for managing psoriasis, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis
and sometimes eczema-related itching and scaling. It can be effective, but it comes with trade-offs: odor,
staining, and the need to follow sun and usage cautions.

Used as directed, coal tar is commonly viewed as a reasonable OTC tool for symptom control. If you’re using it
often, treating large areas, combining it with other therapies, or you’re pregnant/breastfeeding, it’s smart
to check in with a clinician and tailor the plan to your situation.

Medical note: This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace personalized medical advice.

Real-world experiences with coal tar (about )

If you ask a room full of people what coal tar is like, you’ll usually get the same three themesoften in this order:
“It works,” “It smells,” and “Why is my towel… that color now?” Real-world use is less about chemistry and more about
learning the rhythm of the product so you get the benefits without the frustrations.

Experience #1: The scalp “snowstorm” finally slows down.
Many people trying coal tar shampoo are coming from a cycle of flaky scalp that keeps returning no matter how often
they wash. A common report is that coal tar doesn’t always feel dramatic on day one, but after a week or two,
flaking becomes less aggressive and itching calms down. The biggest “aha” moment is often realizing that the shampoo
needs time on the scalp. People who lather and immediately rinse sometimes assume it “did nothing,” then see better
results after leaving it on for a few minutes (as many labels suggest).

Experience #2: The smell is… an experience.
Coal tar has a strong scent that some folks describe as smoky, earthy, or “like a campfire that got a job in a pharmacy.”
Others are less poetic. The good news: many modern formulations are less intense than older versions, and the smell
usually fades after rinsing and drying. The practical workaround people love: use it at night, follow with a conditioner
(if the label allows), and let your pillowcase do the heavy lifting while you sleep.

Experience #3: Staining is real, but manageable.
A frequent first-timer mistake is using a bright white towel or wearing a favorite light-colored shirt immediately after
applying a leave-on product. Coal tar can stain fabrics, so experienced users often keep “designated coal tar towels”
and wear older clothing during application. For scalp products, thorough rinsing reduces residue that can transfer.
People with blond, bleached, or tinted hair sometimes notice temporary discoloration, so they may patch-test or choose
a different option if cosmetic change is a dealbreaker.

Experience #4: It’s not always love at first use.
Some people get mild irritation or dryness early onespecially if they jump into a stronger product or use it too often.
In those cases, the best experiences tend to come from dialing back frequency, using a gentle moisturizer on body areas,
and keeping the routine simple. The goal isn’t to “power through” discomfort. The goal is steady, sustainable improvement.

Experience #5: It becomes part of a routine, not a rescue mission.
Coal tar tends to shine when it’s used consistently, the way it’s meant to be used. People often describe it as a tool
they keep on hand for flare-ups or maintenanceespecially for scalp symptoms that come and go. Some alternate it with other
medicated products (or rotate ingredients) based on how their skin behaves seasonally. Many also say it works best when paired
with basics that aren’t glamorous but matter: regular moisturizing, gentle cleansing, avoiding harsh scratching, and getting a
proper diagnosis when symptoms don’t fit the “typical” pattern.

The overall vibe from real-world use is simple: coal tar can be very effective for the right condition, but the best results
come when you treat it like a targeted medicationnot an everyday cosmetic product. If you can tolerate the smell and respect
the directions, it may earn a permanent spot in your “this actually helps” shelf.