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.

10 Best Coal Tar Shampoos You Need To Try Out

1. Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength Therapeutic Shampoo

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.

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

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.

Heals your scalp quickly Makes your hair manageable Gives you soft and silky hair Eliminates dandruff

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.

Reduces flakiness Mild herbal fragrance Conditions dry ends Adds shine to your hair Moisturizes your scalp

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Recommended by dermatologists Delivers quick results Reduces dryness of scalp Prevents breakage

Causes mild irritation Expensive

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.

Reduces scalp infection Soothes dry scalp Repairs damaged hair A little product goes a long way

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

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.

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.