Coal tar has decades of history for the topical treatment of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD). Dermatologists prescribe coal tar to patients with skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, to reduce redness, itching, and inflammation. Unlike topical steroids, coal tar has little effect on unaffected/normal skin, which makes application easier and less damaging to surrounding skin.

[1] Why do dermatologists prescribe coal tar for psoriasis?

Dermatologists have been prescribing coal tar for more than 100 years to treat psoriasis, and it is considered safe for long-term use.

Like all medicines, some patients should avoid coal tar. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding may want to use a different treatment. We have too little information about how coal tar can affect an unborn baby or a child who is nursing.

People who are sun sensitive or take medicine that makes them more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) light should also use a different treatment.

Coal tar can be very effective. Some people see complete clearing with coal tar and long remissions (time without psoriasis).

Coal tar can effectively treat:

· Plaque-type psoriasis

· Itch

· Scalp psoriasis (especially if itch is the main symptom)

· Difficult-to-treat psoriasis on the palms and soles

· Scale

[1].

Case Study:

Topical Tar: Back to the future [2]

Abstract

The use of medicinal tar for dermatologic disorders dates back to the ancient times. Although coal tar is utilized more frequently in modern dermatology, wood tars have also been widely employed. Tar is used mainly in the treatment of chronic stable plaque psoriasis, scalp psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis, either alone or in combination therapy with other medications, phototherapy, or both. Many modifications have been made to tar preparations to increase their acceptability, as some dislike its odor, messy application, and staining of clothing. One should consider a tried and true treatment with tar that has led to clearing of lesions and prolonged remission times. Occupational studies have demonstrated the carcinogenicity of tar; however, epidemiologic studies do not confirm similar outcomes when used topically. This article will review the pharmacology, formulations, efficacy, and adverse effects of crude coal tar and other tars in the treatment of selected dermatologic conditions [2].

Psoriasis treatment: Coal tar (aad.org) [1]

Topical tar: back to the future - PubMed (nih.gov) [2]

Paghdal KV, Schwartz RA. Topical tar: back to the future. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009 Aug;61(2):294-302. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.11.024. Epub 2009 Jan 31. PMID: 19185953.