10 Best Coal Tar Shampoos To Get Rid Of Psoriasis And Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

Enhance your scalp health and reduce dryness with effectively formulations.

Reviewed by Bill Schrlau, Hairstylist
Written by Pooja Karkala, BA (Psychology & Mass Communication)  • 

Troubled by serious issues such as seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis? Are they giving you dandruff and making your scalp itch? Are you looking for the best possible solution to tackle these issues? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.

Have you ever heard of coal tar shampoos? Coal tar is a byproduct of the carbonization and gasification of coal. It is found in many hair care products like shampoos, soaps, and gels. Coal tar is a keratolytic agent that prevents rapid multiplication of epidermal cells. Therefore, it serves as an elixir for dry, scaly, flaky, and itchy scalp conditions due to its antiseptic and disinfectant properties. Here are the 10 best coal tar shampoos available on the market right now.

ProductsCheck Price
Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic ShampooPrice On Amazon
PsoriaTrax Psoriasis Relief Anti-Dandruff Tar ShampooPrice On Amazon
MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Coal Tar ShampooPrice On Amazon
Art Naturals Scalp 18 Medicated Coal Tar ShampooPrice On Amazon
Denorex Maximum Itch Relief Dandruff Shampoo ConditionerPrice On Amazon
DHS Tar ShampooPrice On Amazon
Clean Buds Coal Tar & Salicylic Acid Scalp ShampooPrice On Amazon
Polytar Scalp Coal Tar ShampooPrice On Amazon
Karissa K-TAR Coal Tar shampooPrice On Amazon

10 Best Coal Tar Shampoos You Need To Try Out

1. Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo

3.8
Neutrogena TGel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo Image: Neutrogena

Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo is popular for its strong formula containing Neutar technology and 1% coal tar extract that are proven to enhance scalp health. It reduces dryness, redness, and intense itching of the scalp, besides providing relief from the symptoms of chronic psoriasis, dandruff, and seborrhoeic dermatitis. This deep cleanser is certified by the National Psoriasis Foundation as an effective scalp therapy.

Pros
  • Delivers quick results
  • Long-lasting results
  • A little product goes a long way
  • Recommended by dermatologists and trichologists
Cons
  • Expensive

2. PsoriaTrax Psoriasis Relief Anti-Dandruff Tar Shampoo

PsoriaTrax Anti-Dandruff Tar Shampoo is claimed to be the most effective shampoo for relieving the symptoms of psoriasis. It contains 5% coal tar and other potent ingredients that help control the symptoms of psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis. It imparts strength to your roots and controls hair fall. It also improves the texture of your hair. However, this shampoo can be used only after consulting a dermatologist.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.38 x 2.44 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 2.4 Ounces
Pros
  • Heals your scalp quickly
  • Makes your hair manageable
  • Gives you soft and silky hair
  • Eliminates dandruff
Cons
  • Can dry out your scalp if used too often

3. MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Coal Tar Shampoo

MG217 Psoriasis Medicated Coal Tar Shampoo helps in reducing redness, irritation, inflammation, and dryness on the scalp. It contains 3% coal tar, and it doubles up as a conditioner. It nourishes your hair, making it appear smooth and healthy. This shampoo not only controls the symptoms of psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis but also prevents their recurrence.

Hair Type: All | Product Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 7.3 inches | Weight: 1.3 Pounds
Pros
  • Reduces flakiness
  • Mild herbal fragrance
  • Conditions dry ends
  • Adds shine to your hair
  • Moisturizes your scalp
Cons
  • Takes time to show results

4. Art Naturals Scalp 18 Medicated Coal Tar Shampoo

Art Naturals Scalp 18 Medicated Coal Tar Shampoo is infused with all-natural oils and is known for its hydrating properties. Its coal tar component helps in treating a flaky and itchy scalp. It also helps in controlling the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema. This shampoo is enriched with 100% natural oils. It repairs your damaged hair and restores its health, thereby adding luster to it.

Pros
  • Gentle cleanser
  • Contains 100% natural oils
  • Exfoliates your scalp
  • Strengthens your roots
  • Cruelty- and paraben-free
Cons
  • Expensive

5. Denorex Therapeutic Maximum Itch Relief Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner

Denorex Therapeutic Maximum Itch Relief Shampoo heals your scalp and conditions your hair simultaneously. It helps in controlling severe dandruff and provides maximum strength to fight an itchy scalp. It soothes and moisturizes your scalp and reduces dryness and itching. It makes your scalp tingle while foaming, which indicates that it is working perfectly.

Pros
  • Provides maximum relief in a single-use
  • Clears build-up
  • Hydrates your scalp
  • A little product goes a long way
  • Makes your hair soft and manageable
Cons
  • Can cause a burning sensation initially
  • Expensive

6. DHS Tar Shampoo

This dermatologist-recommended shampoo helps in treating dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis. It claims to lessen the dryness, itching and flaking on your scalp in a single hair wash. It also conditions dry and damaged cuticles, leaving you with soft, silky, and shiny hair. It clears bacteria and keeps your scalp healthy and refreshed.

Hair Type: Dry, Damaged | Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 1.5 x 1.9 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces
Pros
  • Recommended by dermatologists
  • Delivers quick results
  • Reduces dryness of scalp
  • Prevents breakage
Cons
  • Causes mild irritation
  • Expensive

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 1,069 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

7. Clean Buds Coal Tar & Salicylic Acid Scalp Shampoo

Clean Buds Coal Tar & Salicylic Acid Scalp Shampoo is an effective shampoo that acts as a scale lifter by softening and removing them. It slows pore expansion, reducing the hardening and thickening of pores in the scalp. It also helps remove dandruff and flakes, prevents further buildup, and leaves the scalp itch-free and healthy. It is a gentle formula that cleanses the scalp efficiently.

Pros
  • Acts as a scalp lifter
  • Effective results
  • Works for dandruff and flakes
  • Reduces hardening of the scalp

Cons

None

8. Polytar Scalp Coal Tar Shampoo

Polytar Scalp Coal Tar Shampoo is an antiseptic shampoo that is widely known for treating dandruff, psoriasis, eczema, and seborrhoeic dermatitis. It eliminates flaking and reduces the drying on your scalp. It reduces inflammation instantly and keeps your scalp hydrated for hours. This formula is created for sensitive scalp and hair types. It conditions your hair while being mild on your scalp.

Pros
  • Reduces scalp infection
  • Soothes dry scalp
  • Repairs damaged hair
  • A little product goes a long way
Cons
  • Availability issues

9. Karissa K-TAR Coal Tar shampoo

The Karissa K-TAR Coal Tar Shampoo is a medicated shampoo that treats scalps that are prone to dandruff, itchiness, and flakiness. It sheds away the dead skin cells and decreases dryness. It is enriched with coal tar, an active ingredient that decreases itching and flaking. It also controls the hair fall caused by dandruff.

Pros
  • Reduces itching and flaking
  • Removes dandruff
  • Reduces hair fall
  • Reduces dryness

Cons

None

10. Tar Excel 1% Coal Tar Hair Wash

The Tar Excel 1% Coal Tar Hair Wash is a foaming shampoo that gently cleanses your scalp and helps you get rid of dandruff and flakiness. It contains 1% coal tar that treats severe scalp issues like dandruff, scalp inflammation, psoriasis, itching, scaling, and seborrheic dermatitis. It has a conditioning formula that is free from artificial fragrances.

Pros
  • Reduces itching and flaking
  • Treats dandruff and psoriasis
  • Conditions the hair
  • Maintains the scalp’s pH balance
  • Paraben-free
  • No artificial fragrances

Cons

None


Remember the following vital points before buying a coal tar shampoo.

Things To Consider When Buying A Coal Tar Shampoo

  • Ingredients And Additives

Coal tar shampoos are made with additives like mineral oils, emulsifiers, and lanolin that help in treating psoriasis and other skin problems. These additives may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, check the label for ingredients that you may be sensitive to. The concentration of coal tar content in the shampoo should also be considered for effective results.

  1. Coconut Oil: It contains healthy fats that help moisturize the scalp and enhance hair texture.
  2. Sulfur: It helps in removing the scales and flakes from the scalp caused by psoriasis.
  3. Salicylic Acid: It helps in getting rid of scalp build-up to reduce the effects of psoriasis. It also cleanses the scalp thoroughly by removing dirt and impurities.
  4. Ketoconazole: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in treating psoriasis flare-ups.
  • Clinically Tested

Look for a coal tar shampoo that is dermatologically approved or clinically tested. Also, consult your dermatologist before using any shampoo.

  • User Reviews

Scanning the customer reviews not only tells you about the quality and effectiveness of the product but also its ill effects.

Treat your dry, scaly, and itchy scalp right away with any of these amazing coal tar shampoos and let us know about your experience in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can coal tar shampoo be used as a standalone treatment or should it be used in conjunction with other therapies?

Coal tar shampoo can be used as a standalone treatment for certain scalp conditions like psoriasis, dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis. However, in more severe cases, it may be used in conjunction with other therapies or under the guidance of a healthcare professional for the best results.

Are there any specific precautions for using coal tar shampoo in hot or humid climates?

In hot or humid climates, using coal tar shampoo may cause the scalp to become more sensitive to the sun. It’s essential to protect the scalp from direct sunlight by wearing a hat or using sunscreen on exposed areas.

Can coal tar shampoo be used alongside light therapy or phototherapy for psoriasis treatment?

Yes, coal tar shampoo can be used alongside light therapy or phototherapy for psoriasis treatment, as combining these treatments may enhance their therapeutic effects. However, it’s crucial to follow healthcare professionals’ guidance and recommendations for an effective and safe treatment plan.

How does coal tar shampoo compare to salicylic acid-based shampoos for these skin conditions?

Coal tar shampoo is effective for treating psoriasis, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis, while salicylic acid-based shampoos are better suited for scalp conditions like dandruff and mild psoriasis. However, consulting a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations is essential for making the right choice.

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