How Does Coal Tar Work?
Psoriasisis anautoimmune diseasein which theimmune systemattacks skin cells with inflammation.
Coal tar shampoos are also available to treat scalp psoriasis.
B. Boissonnet / Getty Images
How to Choose
There are hundreds of coal tar preparations found online and on drugstore shelves.
Like most OTC products, they are not strictly regulated by the FDA.
How to Use Coal Tar
Coal tar is intended for external use only.
To ensure safety and effectiveness, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
You should also speak with your healthcare provider ordermatologistto ensure that it is a safe and appropriate option.
This should only be performed by adermatologistusing specialized phototherapy equipment.
Allergic reactions are rare but can occur.
There are no known drug interactions associated with coal tar.
Can Coal Tar Make Psoriasis Worse?
You should stop treatment immediately if you develop severe burning or stinging, swelling, or worsening psoriasis.
How Effective Is It?
For moderate to severe cases, oral drugs likeHumira (adalimumab)are far more effective.
Results can vary, but adults will usually see a visible response to coal tar treatment within four weeks.
In children, the response tends to be quicker, more along the lines of two weeks.
The effectiveness can vary from one person to the next.
For some people, coal tar can completely clear psoriasis and achieve long-term remission.
Others may not respond as well.
Are Stronger Formulations Better?
The potency of coal tar in a product does not influence how well it works.
Other Considerations
Coal tar preparations should never be applied to inflamed, broken, or infected skin.
Doing so can cause pain and trigger a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms.
Do not use tanning beds.
Some coal tar preparations can stain clothes, towels, bedding, and even light-colored hair.
To avoid this, apply the preparation in the shower and wash and rinse thoroughly afterward.
Any hair discoloration will usually return to normal after a few shampoos.
Coal tar products made with liquor carbonis distillate (LCD) are less likely to cause staining.
For safety, coal tar should only be used in children under the direction of a dermatologist.
Summary
Coal tar has been used for centuries to treat psoriasis and other chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
It works by slowing the rapid turnover of skin cells that lead to the formation of plaques.
Use coal tar as directed by the manufacturer.
Severe psoriasis or psoriasis that does not respond to OTC treatment should be seen by a dermatologist.
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