Tar Shampoo: How It Helps Soothe Psoriasis and Eczema on the Scalp
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Living with scalp psoriasis or eczema can be exhausting. The itching, burning, persistent flaking, and embarrassment caused by visible scale build-up can affect confidence and quality of life. Many Australians search endlessly for solutions—creams, oils, serums, home remedies—but few treatments have the long-standing clinical history and proven effectiveness of tar shampoo.
At Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies, we understand how important the right scalp product can be. For many of our customers, the right tar shampoo becomes a turning point—something that finally helps calm the inflammation, reduce scaling, relieve itch, and restore comfort.
This guide explains how tar shampoo works, why dermatologists continue to recommend it, and how to incorporate it safely and effectively into your daily scalp-care routine. We also highlight tar-based scalp solutions available at www.psoriasisandeczema.com.au, so you can confidently choose a product that suits your needs.
What Is Tar Shampoo?
Tar shampoo is formulated using coal tar, a thick, dark ingredient derived from carbon-rich organic materials. Though it may sound unusual, coal tar has been used in dermatology for over a century because of its natural anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and keratolytic effects.
Coal tar helps:
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Slow down excess skin cell growth
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Reduce thick scale build-up
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Calm redness and inflammation
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Relieve itching
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Support long-term management of chronic scalp conditions
For individuals with psoriasis or eczema, where the scalp becomes inflamed and forms thick, stubborn plaques or flaky irritated patches, tar shampoo can provide substantial relief.
How Tar Shampoo Helps Psoriasis on the Scalp
Psoriasis causes the skin to multiply up to 10 times faster than normal, leading to:
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Thick, silvery scale
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Hard, crusted plaques
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Intense itching or burning
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Tightness or soreness
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Scalp sensitivity
Tar shampoo works by slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells, allowing the scalp to shed normally and reducing scale formation.
Benefits of Tar Shampoo for Psoriasis
Slows Excess Skin Growth
Coal tar normalises the rate at which skin cells regenerate. This makes plaques softer, thinner, and less inflamed over time.
Reduces Scaling and Flaking
The keratolytic (scale-removing) action helps lift and loosen stubborn scale so the scalp can breathe.
Relieves Itching
Persistent itch can interfere with sleep and daily life. Tar shampoo naturally reduces itch by calming irritated nerve endings and decreasing inflammation.
Minimises Redness
Inflamed patches often appear angry and red. Tar helps reduce this noticeably with consistent use.
Customers with chronic scalp psoriasis often report that tar shampoo becomes a stabilising product—something they rely on during flare-ups or as part of long-term management.
How Tar Shampoo Helps Eczema on the Scalp
Eczema on the scalp can cause:
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Dryness
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Redness
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Irritation
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Itching
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Flaky patches similar to dandruff
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Weeping or cracking skin in severe cases
While the causes differ from psoriasis, the symptoms overlap, and tar can still be helpful.
Benefits of Tar Shampoo for Eczema
Calms Inflammation
Coal tar reduces inflammatory pathways that trigger itch and redness.
Helps Break the Itch-Scratch Cycle
Eczema sufferers often scratch unconsciously, worsening the skin barrier. Tar’s anti-itch properties help disrupt this cycle.
Supports Skin Barrier Function
Consistent use helps the scalp stay more hydrated and less reactive, creating a healthier environment for new skin to heal.
Reduces Flaking
Tar shampoos help lift flaky skin associated with eczema, reducing visible irritation and discomfort.
Tar-Based Scalp Care Available at Australian Psoriasis and Eczema Supplies
We stock effective scalp-care solutions designed specifically for psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, and chronic flaking conditions. These products use high-quality ingredients with targeted formulations suitable for Australian skin and climate.
Pine Tar Shampoo (Available on our website)
Our Pine Tar Shampoo, available at www.psoriasisandeczema.com.au, contains natural pine tar—known for its soothing, calming, and anti-inflammatory properties. Pine tar is often gentler in scent and feel compared to traditional coal tar, making it a preferred option for everyday scalp care.
Key Benefits of Pine Tar Shampoo
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Reduces redness and itch caused by psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis
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Helps soften and loosen thick scale
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Naturally soothes irritated skin
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Suitable for regular use
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Supports long-term scalp health
Customers often pair Pine Tar Shampoo with our scalp treatment creams and moisturisers for a more complete routine.
Other Supportive Products on Our Website
While not tar-based, many people combine tar shampoo with additional supportive items available in our store, such as:
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Therapeutic scalp moisturisers to prevent dryness
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Anti-inflammatory creams to relieve irritation at the hairline
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Bee Venom products for inflammatory skin conditions
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UVB lamps for targeted psoriasis treatment when recommended by a healthcare professional
All products on our site are carefully selected and tested for quality, making them suitable companions for tar-based scalp routines.
How to Use Tar Shampoo Safely and Effectively
Tar shampoo is generally safe when used correctly, but it must be applied with care for best results.
Step-by-Step Routine
Wet Your Hair Thoroughly
Tar shampoo works best when distributed evenly through damp hair.
Apply and Massage Gently
Massage the shampoo into the scalp—not just the hair. Focus on areas with the most scaling, redness, or irritation.
Allow It to Sit
Let the shampoo remain on the scalp for 3–5 minutes (or as directed on the product label). This allows the active tar ingredients time to absorb.
Rinse Well
Rinse thoroughly to remove loosened scale and excess product.
Use Regularly
Most people use tar shampoo 2–3 times per week during flare-ups, then reduce frequency as symptoms improve.
Tips for Better Results
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Alternate tar shampoo with a gentle daily shampoo to avoid dryness.
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Avoid scratching the scalp before or during washing.
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Pair with a scalp moisturiser to prevent irritation.
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Speak to a dermatologist if symptoms do not improve.
Possible Side Effects of Tar Shampoo
Tar products have an excellent safety profile, but mild effects may occur:
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Temporary scalp dryness
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Slight lingering scent
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Increased sun sensitivity
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Rare skin irritation
To reduce the risk:
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Avoid direct sun exposure on the scalp after use
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Do not apply to broken skin
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Patch test if you have sensitive skin
Most users experience no issues and enjoy significant relief after consistent use.
Why Tar Shampoo Remains a Trusted Solution
While modern treatments exist—steroid creams, UVB therapy, medicated gels—tar shampoo remains one of the most affordable, accessible, and effective options for chronic scalp issues.
Its benefits are backed by decades of dermatology research, and it remains a frontline solution recommended by healthcare professionals across Australia.
Tar shampoo is particularly valuable because it:
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Can be used long-term
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Is safe for repeated weekly use
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Complements other psoriasis and eczema treatments
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Helps maintain results after flare-ups subside
For many, it becomes a stable part of their scalp-care routine—something they keep in their bathroom year-round.
Final Thoughts
Scalp psoriasis and eczema can be persistent, frustrating, and emotionally draining. But with the right products and consistent care, many sufferers experience significant, long-term relief.
Tar shampoo—especially gentle, effective pine tar formulations—is a reliable option that calms inflammation, reduces redness, softens scale, and soothes irritation. If you are dealing with ongoing scalp issues, incorporating a quality tar shampoo from www.psoriasisandeczema.com.au could make a meaningful difference.
Our Pine Tar Shampoo and complementary scalp-care products provide a natural and effective approach for anyone managing chronic scalp conditions. Explore our full range and take an important step toward a calmer, healthier scalp.