Polytar Scalp Shampoo 150ml is a medicated shampoo containing coal tar solution 4% w/w, formulated to treat a range of itchy, flaky and scaly scalp conditions, including psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema and dandruff.

Coal tar helps reduce excessive scaling, itching and inflammation associated with these conditions. Polytar combines medicinal treatment with scalp cleansing, helping remove flakes and improve scalp comfort.

The 150ml bottle provides a convenient treatment option for adults and children aged 12 years and over who need targeted relief from troublesome scalp symptoms.

Key Benefits

  • Coal Tar 4% Formula: Contains a medicated ingredient used to treat inflammatory and scaly scalp conditions.
  • Helps Relieve Itching: Reduces discomfort associated with dandruff, eczema and other scalp conditions.
  • Reduces Flaking and Scaling: Helps manage the build-up of scalp scales.
  • Suitable for Scalp Psoriasis: Helps relieve scaling and itching associated with psoriasis.
  • Helps Manage Seborrhoeic Dermatitis: Treats associated flaking, inflammation and irritation.
  • Supports Eczema Management: Helps relieve symptoms of eczema affecting the scalp.
  • Medicated Scalp Cleansing: Cleanses the hair while delivering treatment to the affected scalp.
  • Convenient Treatment Routine: Usually used once or twice weekly.
  • 150ml Bottle: Practical size for a course of treatment.

Active Ingredient

Coal Tar Solution 4% w/w: Helps reduce scalp scaling, inflammation and itching.

Other Ingredients

  • Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine
  • Disodium Phosphate Dihydrate
  • Citric Acid Monohydrate
  • Benzyl Alcohol
  • Macrogol 150 Distearate
  • Hexylene Glycol
  • Oleyl Alcohol
  • Polyquaternium-10
  • Fragrance oil, containing fragrance allergens
  • Purified Water

Allergy information:

  • Contains benzyl alcohol and fragrance allergens that may cause allergic reactions or local irritation.
  • Consult the patient information leaflet for the full list of fragrance components.
  1. Wet the hair thoroughly with warm water.
  2. Apply enough shampoo to produce a lather covering the scalp and affected surrounding areas.
  3. Massage gently into the scalp using your fingertips.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with water.
  5. Repeat the application and rinse again.
  6. Ensure the total contact time across both applications is 3–5 minutes.
  1. Wet the hair thoroughly with warm water.
  2. Apply enough shampoo to produce a lather covering the scalp and affected surrounding areas.
  3. Massage gently into the scalp using your fingertips.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with water.
  5. Repeat the application and rinse again.
  6. Ensure the total contact time across both applications is 3–5 minutes.

Important Instructions

  • For external use only.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes.
  • Rinse immediately with clean water if contact occurs.
  • Follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet.

Treatment Frequency

  • Use once or twice weekly.
  • The usual treatment period is approximately 4 weeks.
  • Symptoms should generally improve during this period.

Additional Advice

  • Do not exceed the recommended frequency unless advised by a healthcare professional.
  • Consult a pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist after 4 weeks.
  • Seek advice if the scalp condition worsens or significant irritation develops.

Possible Side Effects

  • Skin irritation or redness.
  • Burning or stinging sensations.
  • Itching or skin rash.
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
  • Temporary staining of skin or hair.
  • Rare changes in hair colour.
  • Allergic reactions to ingredients or fragrance components.

What Should You Do?

  • Stop using Polytar if significant irritation or an allergic reaction occurs.
  • Speak to a pharmacist or GP if symptoms persist.
  • Seek urgent medical attention if you experience breathing difficulties, facial swelling or other symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.
  • Do not use if allergic to coal tar or any other ingredient.
  • Do not use on infected, open or damaged skin, or areas with pus-filled blisters.
  • Not suitable for children under 12 years.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes.
  • Stop use if significant irritation develops.
  • Coal tar may increase sensitivity to sunlight; avoid excessive sun exposure and sunbeds.
  • Seek medical advice if taking medicines that increase sensitivity to sunlight.
  • Do not use during the first trimester of pregnancy.
  • Seek medical advice before use during later pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
  • Polytar may stain skin, clothing and bedding.

Fire hazard: Fabrics contaminated with the product may ignite more easily. Keep away from naked flames and do not smoke near contaminated fabrics.

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is Polytar Scalp Shampoo used for?

    • Scalp psoriasis.
    • Seborrhoeic dermatitis.
    • Scalp eczema.
    • Dandruff.
    • Itching and scaling associated with these conditions.

  • How often should I use Polytar?

    • Usually once or twice weekly.
    • Follow the patient information leaflet or professional advice.

  • How long should I leave Polytar on my scalp?

    The total contact time across the two applications should be 3–5 minutes.

  • Can Polytar help with scalp psoriasis?

    Yes. It helps manage itching and scaling associated with scalp psoriasis.

  • Can I use Polytar every day?

    • Daily use is not normally recommended.
    • The usual schedule is once or twice weekly.

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