How does coal tar work?
It's not completely understood how coal tar works to treat scalp and skin conditions. It appears to have antimicrobial, anti-itching and keratolytic effects.
Keratolytic agents loosen and help to shed dead cells from the top layer of the skin. This reduces scaling, flaking, dryness and itchiness. They also help dry skin conditions by keeping the skin moist. They help reduce and slow down the growth of skin cells and the thickening and scaling of the skin.
Coal tar's antibacterial properties help prevent the skin from becoming infected.
How long does it take to work?
Symptoms should improve within 4 weeks of starting a new coal tar treatment (2 weeks for children). If there is no improvement speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Are there any long-term side effects?
Coal tar is safe to use for a long time.
If you have a long-term condition such as psoriasis, the choice of medicine you use will be based on how your skin reacts to the medicine, and where the irritation is on your body.
Why can I not use some coal tar products on my face?
Not all products containing coal tar are suitable to use on your face. The leaflet that comes with it will tell you if you can.
If you can use it on your face, be careful around your eyes and mouth as it can cause irritation.
Can using coal tar cause cancer?
Studies have shown that some of the chemicals in coal tar may increase the risk of cancer, but only in very high concentrations, such as in what is used in industrial paving.
An increased risk of skin cancer in patients with psoriasis treated with a combination of coal tar and UVB radiation has been reported.
However, using coal tar alone to treat skin conditions has not been shown to increase the risk of cancer.
Will it affect my contraception?
Coal tar does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Coal tar does not make you sleepy, so it's safe to drive, ride a bike, or use tools and machinery when using this medicine.
Can I drink alcohol while using coal tar?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using coal tar.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, you can eat and drink normally while using coal tar.
Can I still have vaccinations?
Yes. Using coal tar does not stop you or your child having vaccinations.
But tell the healthcare professional if you're also using hydrocortisone cream so they can give the vaccine in an untreated area of your skin.