For generations, individuals seeking relief from persistent and challenging skin conditions have turned to traditional remedies. One such ingredient, with a long history of use, is Coal Tar. Here at Ossie Naturals, we believe in the power of nature, combined with a commitment to transparency and safety. We understand that you might have questions about certain traditional ingredients, especially when it comes to their safety profile. This article aims to shed some light on Coal Tar, particularly addressing common concerns, including those around cancer risk, to help you make informed choices for your skin’s well-being.
What Exactly is Coal Tar and How Does it Help the Skin?
Coal Tar is a by-product that results from the processing of coal. It’s a thick, dark liquid and has been recognised for its distinctive properties for over a century in dermatological applications. In skincare, refined versions of coal tar are typically used.
So, how does it work to help skin that’s feeling particularly troubled? Coal Tar is known as a keratoplastic. In simple terms, this means it works by:
Slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells: In conditions like psoriasis, skin cells can multiply too quickly, leading to the build-up of thick, scaly patches. Coal tar helps to normalise this process.
Helping the skin shed dead cells from its top layer: This action reduces scaling and can improve the skin’s texture and appearance.
Reducing inflammation and itching: These are common and distressing symptoms of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Coal tar can offer significant comfort by calming these sensations.
Due to these actions, products containing coal tar are often used to help manage the appearance and discomfort associated with:
Psoriasis (especially plaque psoriasis and scalp psoriasis)
Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
Seborrheic dermatitis
General itching and scaling
Addressing the Elephant in the Room: The Cancer Concern
One of the most significant concerns often voiced about coal tar is its potential link to cancer. It’s a valid question, and it’s important to look at where this concern originates and what current understanding tells us.
The apprehension largely stems from two areas:
Studies on animals: Some animal studies have shown a cancer risk when animals were exposed to very high concentrations of coal tar, far exceeding what would be used in typical human topical treatments.
Occupational exposure studies: Research has also looked at individuals who work with crude coal tar in industrial settings (like paving or roofing) and experience prolonged, high-level exposure. These situations are very different from the controlled, topical application of refined coal tar products in low concentrations.
What does the research say about typical therapeutic use?
It’s crucial to differentiate between high-level industrial exposure and the use of coal tar in regulated skincare and medicinal preparations. According to Medical News Today, drawing from various dermatological sources:
Dermatologists have been prescribing coal tar for over 100 years to help manage conditions like psoriasis, and experts generally consider it safe to use in the concentrations typically found in these treatments.
Crucially, researchers have found no evidence to suggest that coal tar with a concentration of between 0.5% and 5% (the typical range for therapeutic products) causes cancer in humans.
Whilst some ingredients within coal tar could be problematic at very high concentrations, the levels used in topical treatments designed for skin conditions are significantly lower and are generally considered safe when used as directed.
In some regions, like California, products containing coal tar may carry a cancer warning. This is often due to regulations (like Proposition 65) that require warnings for a broad list of chemicals, even if the risk in a specific product’s intended use is very low or not established for typical human exposure levels in that context.
The consensus amongst many dermatological organisations, like the American Academy of Dermatology, is that coal tar, when used appropriately for conditions like psoriasis and eczema, is a valuable and safe option.
Understanding Potential Side Effects and Using Coal Tar Wisely
Like many effective ingredients, coal tar can have some side effects, though many people use it without serious issues. Being aware of these helps ensure you use it correctly:
Skin Irritation: Some individuals might experience mild skin irritation, redness, or a stinging/burning sensation, particularly when first starting to use a coal tar product. This often subsides with continued use. Performing a patch test before applying any new product widely is always a sensible precaution, especially with potent ingredients.
Photosensitivity: Coal tar can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight (UV radiation) for up to 24 hours after application. This means it’s important to:
Avoid prolonged sun exposure on treated areas.
Wear protective clothing.
Use a mineral-based sunscreen (look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) on any treated skin that might be exposed to the sun.
Avoid sunlamps or tanning beds.
Staining: Coal tar has a distinctive dark colour and can stain skin, hair (especially lighter shades), and clothing or bedding. Apply it carefully and allow products to dry or absorb as much as possible before letting them come into contact with fabrics.
Odour: Coal tar has a strong, characteristic medicinal or smoky smell. Whilst many formulations try to make this more pleasant, the underlying scent is often noticeable. This is a hallmark of the ingredient’s presence.
Hair Follicle Issues (Tar Acne): With long-term use, some people might develop irritation around hair follicles in the treated area, sometimes referred to as “tar acne.” If you notice new skin bumps, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
Making an Informed Choice
At Ossie Naturals, we believe that knowledge empowers you. Coal tar is a traditional ingredient with a long track record of helping individuals manage the distressing symptoms of certain chronic skin conditions. Whilst concerns about its safety, particularly regarding cancer risk, are understandable, the available evidence suggests that when used in the low, refined concentrations found in reputable skincare and topical treatments, and with proper precautions, it is generally considered safe and effective by dermatological experts.
As with any potent skincare ingredient, it’s about using it responsibly:
Always follow the product directions carefully.
Perform a patch test.
Be mindful of photosensitivity.
If you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s always best to consult with your doctor or a dermatologist before introducing new potent skincare products.
We hope this article has provided some clarity and reassurance regarding Coal Tar. Our aim is to offer you effective, natural-leaning solutions, backed by honest information, so you can care for your skin with confidence.
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