Polytar 4% Coal Tar Medicated Scalp Shampoo Review – Psoriasis, Dandruff & Itching Relief

Lately, I've been spending hours on my hair, braiding it, slicking it down with gel, and just playing around with new looks. It’s been fun, but honestly, my scalp is paying for it. It’s started feeling so irritated, itchy, and flaky lately.

I’ve realized that as much as I love styling my hair, I have to actually take care of my scalp too. I truly love my hair. I’m that person who is obsessed with her hair because I see every part of my body as a gift from God, and my hair is the one accessory I get to wear every single day.

That’s when the brand Polytar offered me their 4% Coal Tar Medicated Scalp Shampoo, a product designed specifically for people dealing with scalp issues like psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, and itching. I was open to trying it.

Using a quality medicated shampoo isn’t just about clean hair. It’s about restoring the health of your scalp. Polytar shampoo reduces redness, flakiness becomes manageable, and the scalp is soothed. For anyone struggling with scalp irritation, this product could be a game-changer.

What Does Polytar 4% Coal Tar Scalp Shampoo Do?

Polytar is clinically proven to tackle multiple scalp conditions. Here’s a breakdown of its benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation. It is particularly beneficial for conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
• Antiseptic: Cleanses the scalp and prevents infection, keeping your scalp healthy.
• Keratolytic: Breaks down excess keratin to reduce thick, scaly skin.
• Antipruritic: Soothes persistent itching, offering much-needed relief.
• Exfoliating: Promotes natural shedding of dead skin cells, reducing buildup and dryness.

This combination makes it ideal for anyone struggling with chronic scalp conditions or dryness caused by styling and product buildup.

How to Use Polytar for Maximum Effect

• Wet Hair: Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
• Apply Shampoo: Use enough to create a rich lather.
• Massage: Gently massage the scalp and surrounding areas with your fingertips.
• Leave On: Keep the shampoo on for 3–5 minutes to allow it to work.
• Rinse & Repeat: Rinse thoroughly and repeat once.

For best results, use once or twice a week. If symptoms persist, consult your GP.

Polytar Ingredients and Their Benefits
Active Ingredient:

Coal Tar Solution 4% (w/w)

• A natural, thick oil with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-itch properties.
• Slows excessive skin cell growth, reducing scaling and irritation.
• Cleanses and soothes the scalp while controlling flakiness.

Other Ingredients:

• Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate: Cleansing agent that removes dirt, oil, and styling product residue.
• Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Gentle surfactant that foams and cleans without stripping moisture.
• Disodium Phosphate Dihydrate & Citric Acid Monohydrate: Maintain pH balance for scalp health.
• Benzyl Alcohol (1% w/w): Preservative with antiseptic properties.
• Macrogol 150 Distearate & Hexylene Glycol: Emollients that smooth hair and prevent dryness.
• Oleyl Alcohol: Conditioning agent that softens hair and scalp.
• Polyquaternium-10: Helps detangle hair and reduces static.
• Fragrance oil (including Linalool, Alpha-Isomethyl ionone, Citronellol, Hexyl cinnamal, and others): Adds a fresh scent while some compounds also have mild soothing effects.
• Purified Water: Base for the shampoo, ensures even distribution of active ingredients.

Allergens and Cautions

Do not use Polytar if:

• You’re allergic to coal tar or any listed ingredients.
• You have infected, open, or pus-filled skin.
• You’re under 12 years old.

Use with caution if:

• You have sensitive or inflamed skin—discontinue if irritation occurs.
• It comes into contact with eyes—rinse immediately.
• Exposed to strong sunlight or sunbeds, as coal tar may increase sun sensitivity.
• Contact with clothing or bedding, as it may stain and is flammable.

Safety Note:

• Rarely, Polytar may temporarily alter hair color.
• Fabrics exposed to the product may pose a fire risk—wash thoroughly, but some residue may remain.

Why This Shampoo Is Worth It

Polytar 4% Coal Tar Medicated Scalp Shampoo goes beyond just cleaning your hair. It addresses the root causes of scalp irritation, whether from psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, or styling damage. With a combination of anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, keratolytic, and antipruritic properties, it soothes and protects your scalp while promoting healthier hair.

For anyone who spends time styling hair, braiding, or using gels and waxes, adding Polytar to your routine is a step toward scalp restoration and long-term hair health.

For anyone who spends time styling hair, braiding, or using gels and waxes, adding Polytar to your routine is a step toward scalp restoration and long-term hair health.