Coal Tar

1. Definition Coal Tar:

Coal tar is a viscous liquid derived from the distillation of bituminous coal. It is a byproduct of the production of coke, a fuel used in steel production. Coal tar contains various compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which give it its characteristic dark color and strong odor.

2. Use:

Coal tar has been used in various cosmetic products for its anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and anti-microbial properties. It is commonly found in shampoos, scalp treatments, and skin creams designed to treat conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff. Coal tar helps to slow down the rapid growth of skin cells and reduce inflammation, itching, and scaling associated with these skin conditions.

3. Usage Coal Tar:

When using cosmetics containing coal tar, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Coal tar products should be applied only to the affected areas of the skin or scalp and should not be used on broken or irritated skin. It is recommended to perform a patch test before using coal tar products to check for any allergic reactions or skin irritation. Additionally, prolonged or excessive use of coal tar products may increase the risk of skin irritation, sensitivity to sunlight, and staining of fabrics.

4. References:

- National Psoriasis Foundation. (n.d.). Coal Tar. https://www.psoriasis.org/treatment/coal-tar

- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). Coal Tar and Coal-Tar Pitch. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/coal-tar-and-coal-tar-pitch

- American Academy of Dermatology. (2018). Coal Tar. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/psoriasis/treatment/medications/coal-tar