Coal Tar Shampoo
All of us know of the basic hair care routine of oil massaging and then washing the hair with a good shampoo. There are so many shampoos in the market, right from those containing exotic fruit extracts to those containing coal tar. Yes, you heard it right - coal tar shampoo! This isn't the latest fad that is causing a sensation in vain circles, but instead it is a medicinal shampoo that is used in certain diseases and disorders. Given below are details regarding the same.
What is Coal Tar Shampoo Used for?
Coal tar shampoo is used to treat conditions where there is excessive itching of the scalp. In cases, where a person complains of dryness, itchiness, flaking of skin, excessive dandruff, psoriasis, etc. So, why is shampoo containing coal tar used to treat these conditions? Well, coal tar is said to be a keratolytic agent. It makes the skin shed the superficial dead skin cells that hang on as skin tags. It slows down the growth of skin cells, all of which in turn, leads to a decrease in the scaling and dryness of the scalp. It consequently also decreases the itchiness of the scalp, which is the reason why coal tar shampoo for lice is also being evaluated as a possible use of this shampoo.
How to Use the Shampoo?
Ideally, the package will guide you on how to use this product, which is to be used on the hair and scalp only. Take the coal tar shampoo and apply it on wet hair. Then, massage it so that it forms lather and then allow it to remain on the scalp for a while. You have to ensure that the product reaches the scalp, or else, if it only remains on the hair and does not reach the scalp, it will be of no use. Never let the product enter or come in contact with the eyes, because it can prove to be a strong irritant for the eye. The dose and frequency of use will be told you by your dermatologist. Ensure that you follow his instructions strictly, because overzealous use of this product could lead to less effectiveness and in fact, more side effects.
Side Effects of the Shampoo
There are quite a few side effects that some individuals may feel on using this medicinal shampoo. Firstly, there may be slight skin or scalp irritation. This may mean that you could be allergic to it, in which case, you should immediately stop using the shampoo. Some people may have a reaction to it and may develop acne due to clogging of the pores containing hair follicles. Other side effects include dizziness, rashes, itching and swelling in the head region, etc. There is speculation that coal tar shampoo and cancer may be related, that is, excess of coal tar usage may lead to cancer. However, these claims are still being investigated and yet, there is no proof to quantify them.
Usually, this is a shampoo whose keratolytic effects help to bring down the severity of symptoms of psoriasis and eczema to a considerable extent. Always ensure that you follow your dermatologist's advice regarding the use of this shampoo. Keep this shampoo at a safe distance from children because it is poisonous if swallowed. And keep it away from your clothing as well, because coal tar quite understandably stains clothes. This shampoo should ideally be stored at room temperature. I hope this information regarding coal tar shampoo was helpful to you. However, if you wish to use this product, please ensure that it is prescribed for you by a certified dermatologist.
