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The Original Coal Tar Shampoo since 1960

Clinically proven to treat stubborn scalp conditions.

Our coal tar formula provides long-lasting relief from stubborn scalp conditions such as psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, eczema and dandruff.

Why Martine McCutcheon swears by Polytar

Martine has been a devoted Polytar user for years, relying on its scalp-soothing formula to keep dandruff firmly under control. We sat down with her to uncover her Scalp Story, from the frustrations she once faced to the confidence she feels today. Discover how Polytar transformed Martine’s scalp and hair health, and how it can do the same for you.

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Active Ingredient

What is Coal Tar and how does it help my scalp?

Coal Tar is a natural, thick oil with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-itch properties. It cleanses and soothes the scalp while slowing excessive skin cell growth to reduce itching and irritation.

Anti-inflammatory
Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation from scalp conditions.

Antiseptic
Cleanses the scalp and helps prevent infection.

Keratolytic
Breaks down excess keratin to reduce thickened, scaly skin.


Antipruritic
Soothes the scalp to relieve persistent itching.

Exfoliating
Promotes natural shedding of dead skin cells to reduce build up and dryness.

Common Scalp Conditions

Polytar Medicated Scalp Shampoo formulated with Coal Tar Solution 4% helps soothe and treat many scalp condition symptoms by targeting the root causes of irritation and flakiness.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff)

Minimise dry flakes and soothe 
scalp discomfort.

Eczema

Calm dryness, itching, and inflammation to restore comfort.

Psoriasis

Reduce redness, scaling, and
thick patches for clearer skin.

Flaking and Itching

Manage flaking and scaling to 
relieve irritated skin.

Scalp Build Up

Remove dead skin and residue to 
keep scalp clean and refreshed.

Helpful advice

Check out our articles for advice on skin conditions such as Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, Psoriasis and Eczema.

Common Questions

Polytar is formulated to help manage scalp conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

For best results, use Polytar 1-2 times per week or as directed by your healthcare provider.

Polytar is designed for use 1-2 times a week, but for daily concerns, consult with your dermatologist.

Yes, Polytar is generally safe for colour-treated hair, but a patch test is recommended.

Polytar has a distinctive coal tar scent, which fades after rinsing.

Leave the shampoo on for 3-5 minutes before rinsing for maximum effectiveness.

Polytar is suitable for adults and children over 12 years of age. Consult a healthcare provider for younger children.

Talk to your GP before using Polytar if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
*Do not use if you are in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Active ingredient: Coal tar solution 4% (w/w).

Other ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Disodium Phosphate Dihydrate, Citric Acid Monohydrate, Benzyl Alcohol (1% w/w), Macrogol 150 Distearate, Hexylene Glycol, Oleyl Alcohol, Polyquaternium-10, Fragrance oil (contains: Linalool, Alpha-Isomethyl ionone (3-Methyl-4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one), Citronellol, Hexyl cinnamal (Hexyl cinnamaldehyde), Benzyl salicylate, Benzyl benzoate, Coumarin, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Isoeugenol, Limonene, Benzyl alcohol, Amyl cinnamal, Amylcinnamyl alcohol, Anisyl alcohol (Anise alcohol), Benzyl cinnamate, Cinnamal, Cinnamyl alcohol, Citral, Farnesol) and Purified Water.

Is hard water damaging your scalp?

Many parts of the UK have hard water, rich in calcium and magnesium. This disrupt your scalp’s natural barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Check the water hardness in your area to see if it could be contributing to your scalp concerns. If hard water has left your scalp feeling uncomfortable, Polytar offers proven relief, soothing irritation and helping your scalp feel healthy again.

75–150 150–250 250–350 350+