Best Coal Tar For Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition where your immune system mistakenly speeds up skin cell growth. This causes thick, red, itchy patches with silvery scales. Coal tar ointment slows skin cell growth and reduces redness, scaling, itching, and swelling. It's applied externally and is generally considered safe for psoriasis but can cause mild irritation or sun sensitivity.

What Causes Psoriasis?

Psoriasis happens because your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. This makes new skin cells grow way too fast, piling up on the surface and forming those characteristic red and scaly patches.

How to use coal tar for psoriasis?

• Clean Skin First: Wash and dry the affected area.
• Apply Thin Layer: Spread a thin coat on the patches.
• Rub Gently In: Lightly massage until absorbed.
• Protect Clothing: It can stain and cover treated skin.
• Follow the Doctor's Advice: Use exactly as prescribed.
• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Keep away from the eyes and mouth.
• Wash Hands Well: Clean hands thoroughly after use.

Benefits of coal tar for psoriasis:

• Slows Skin Growth: Coal tar helps normalize rapid skin cell production. This reduces the thick, scaly patches characteristic of psoriasis, making skin smoother and less built-up.
• Reduces Inflammation: It calms the redness and swelling associated with psoriasis flare-ups. This anti-inflammatory action helps lessen discomfort and improve the skin's appearance, bringing relief.
• Calms Itching: Many psoriasis sufferers experience intense itching. Coal tar ointment can significantly reduce this irritating symptom, providing much-needed comfort and preventing further skin damage from scratching.
• Affordable Option: Compared to some newer psoriasis treatments, coal tar is often a more budget-friendly choice. This makes effective relief accessible to a wider range of patients.

When to use?

Use coal tar ointment when psoriasis causes thick, scaly patches and itching. It's often for mild to moderate cases, applied directly to affected areas. Always use it exactly as your doctor tells you for the best and safest results.

How does coal tar for psoriasis work?

Coal tar ointment works by slowing down the fast-growing skin cells seen in psoriasis patches. It also helps reduce the inflammation and itching. Essentially, it normalizes how quickly new skin forms, leading to smoother, less scaly patches.

Safety Advice:

• Follow Doctor's Orders: Use precisely as prescribed; do not overuse.
• Sun Sensitivity: Avoid strong sun exposure; coal tar increases sunburn risk.
• Patch Test First: Apply to a small area; check for irritation before full use.
• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Keep away from eyes, mouth, genitals, and broken skin.
• Staining Possible: Can stain clothes, bedding, and light hair temporarily.
• Report Side Effects: Tell your doctor if stinging, burning, or worsening irritation occurs.
• Not for Infection: Do not use on infected, blistered, or oozing skin.
• Keep from Children: Store safely away from kids and pets always.

When seeking medical advice?

• Psoriasis Worsens Significantly
• Symptoms Don't Improve With Treatment
• Severe Itching or Pain Develops
• Psoriasis Spreads Rapidly
• Joint Pain or Swelling Appears
• Signs of Skin Infection Emerge
• Coal Tar Causes Severe Irritation
• New, Unusual Symptoms Occur
• Concerns About Appearance or Quality of Life

Is coal tar ointment for psoriasis effective?

Yes, coal tar ointment is effective for psoriasis. It helps slow skin cell growth and reduce redness, itching, and scaling, offering good relief for many people.

Conclusion:

Psoriasis is challenging, but coal tar ointment offers effective relief by slowing skin growth. If symptoms worsen or persist, seek professional guidance; self-treating advanced cases isn't advisable. Awareness of triggers, prevention strategies, and choosing the right medicine with a doctor ensures better management. Ongoing care and education are key to living well with psoriasis.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: What is coal tar ointment used for?
A: Coal tar ointment is used to relieve itching, scaling, and inflammation caused by skin conditions like psoriasis.

Q: How does coal tar ointment help psoriasis?
A: It slows skin cell growth, reduces scaling, and calms inflammation to relieve psoriasis symptoms effectively.

Q: Is coal tar ointment safe for long-term use?
A: It’s generally safe, but long-term use should be under medical advice to avoid side effects.

Q: Can I use coal tar ointment on my face?
A: Avoid using it on the face unless a doctor advises, as facial skin is sensitive and may react.

Q: Does coal tar ointment have side effects?
A: Possible side effects include skin irritation, dryness, itching, or a mild burning sensation after use.

Q: Can coal tar ointment increase my skin’s sensitivity to sunlight?
A: Yes, it may increase sun sensitivity, so use sunscreen or avoid sun exposure after application.

Q: How much time does coal tar ointment need to show results?
A: Improvement usually appears in a few days to weeks, depending on skin response and condition severity.

Q: Is it safe to use coal tar ointment along with other psoriasis treatments?
A: Yes, but always consult your doctor to safely combine treatments without causing skin reactions.

Q: Is a prescription needed for coal tar ointment?
A: No, most coal tar ointments are available over-the-counter, but strong ones may need a prescription.

Q: Does coal tar ointment stain clothes or skin?
A: Yes, it may temporarily stain skin and permanently stain clothes, so wear old clothing during use.