What Is a Tar Shampoo?
Tar shampoo is a keratolytic, meaning a peeling agent to treat scalp irritation due to psoriasis, seborrhea or dandruff. Tar soap is derived from coal or juniper or pine wood, though the coal-based variety is usually what is prescribed to treat psoriasis.
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Treating Skin Irritation
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Coal tar shampoo slows bacterial growth causing the irritation, reducing inflammation. It softens and loosens crusting, scaly skin, restoring the skin.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
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Seborrheic dermatitis is often treated with coal tar shampoo.
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Side Effects
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Tar shampoos may discolor blonde, gray or bleached hair.
Sensitivity to Sunlight
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A person using coal tar shampoo may also develop an increased sensitivity to sunlight, therefore exposure to the sun, or tanning lamps should be avoided. Also, a person with a condition that is affected by sunlight, such as lupus or sun allergies, should not use this product.
Negative Aspects
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Tar shampoo may stain hair, skin, bed linens and clothing. Coal tar products contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which have been linked to cancer. Research into any increased risk of cancer from using coal tar products is inconclusive.
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References
Resources
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