What is Polytar?
Polytar is a medicated scalp shampoo containing coal tar as its active ingredient. It is used to treat various scalp conditions, including psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema, dandruff, scaling, and itchiness. Coal tar has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-itch properties that help cleanse and soothe the scalp while slowing down rapid skin cell growth associated with these conditions
How Should I Use Polytar?
To ensure that these shampoos work at maximum effectiveness the user should apply the treatment in the following steps:
- Firstly wet your hair with warm water.
- Use enough shampoo to cover all of the scalp and hair.
- Apply thoroughly by gently massaging the treatment into your scalp using your fingertips.
- Rinse the shampoo out with warm water.
- Repeat the application process but this time leaving the shampoo in for 3-5 minutes before rinsing.
It is important not to overuse the shampoo and only use it once or twice a week.
Are Medicated Shampoos safe?
Yes, Medicated shampoos are safe and most people respond fine to the treatment given that they are over 12 years old without an allergy to coal tar. However, you can not and should not apply this shampoo on infected, open or damaged skin.
In rare cases, some users experience side effects including:
- Skin irritation
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Eye irritation
- Unusual hair loss or thinning
- Eczema-like rashes
- Changes in hair texture or colour
- Burning sensations on the skin.
If you experience any of the above side affects, stop using the shampoo and consult a medical professional before continuing with the treatment.
What is the difference between Polytar and alternatives like Selsun?
Their key difference is the active ingredients, Polytar uses Coal tar where as Selsun has Selenium Sulphate. These active ingredients specialise at tackling different skin conditions. Coal tar is proven to fight Psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema, where as Selenium sulfide is more for antifungal conditions and dandruff. Both can be used for seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Although both of these shampoos are used for very similar scalp conditions and are equally as effective they work in slightly different ways due to their active ingredients. If you are unsure it's always best to consult a healthcare professional to decide which treatment is best for you.
Our pharmacy team is always happy to help!
| Feature | Polytar | Selsun |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Coal tar | Selenium sulfide |
| Primary Uses | Psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema | Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis |
| Mechanism | Slows rapid skin cell growth; reduces inflammation | Reduces fungal growth; controls oil production |
| Side Effects | Skin irritation, sensitivity to sunlight | Rare; may include mild irritation |
| Age Restrictions | 12 years and older | 5 years and older |
Has Polytar shampoo been discontinued?
No, Polytar has not been discontinued. However, there was recently a long term issue in the supply chain causing the treatment to be out of stock everywhere in the UK. This issue has now been resolved and you can now Purchase Polytar from us at medino.