How to Stop Psoriasis Itching and Break the Scratch Cycle
Can Stress Trigger Psoriasis Flare-Ups? Understanding the Stress-Psoriasis Cycle
Scalp Psoriasis vs Dandruff: How to Tell the Difference
Are Sunbeds Good for Psoriasis? Risks, Myths and How UV Therapy Actually Works
Is Sunlight Good for Psoriasis? Benefits, Risks and How UV Exposure Affects Flare-Ups
Can Stress Trigger Psoriasis Flare-Ups? Understanding the Link Between Stress and Inflammation
Psoriasis vs Eczema vs Dermatitis: How to Tell the Difference
Can Scalp Psoriasis Cause Hair Loss? What's Temporary, What's Not, and What May Help
How to Soothe Scalp Psoriasis During Flare-Ups
Best Dandruff Treatments Explained: Choosing the Right Shampoos and Ingredients for Your Scalp
What Causes Dry Scalp? Understanding Dryness, Flakes and Underlying Scalp Conditions
Plaque psoriasis: symptoms, causes and how it affects the scalp
How to Choose the Right Shampoo for a Sensitive Scalp
Natural Approaches to Psoriasis: What May Help Manage Symptoms and Flare-Ups
How to Remove Psoriasis Scales from the Scalp Safely and Effectively
How to Treat Scalp Psoriasis: Shampoos, Steroids and Treatment Pathways Explained
Our Expert Team
Our insights are supported by a panel of dermatologists and trichologists with specialist knowledge in scalp health.
Marta Teixeira IAT, BN (Hons), RN (Adult), PGCert, MSc
Marta is a highly qualified Prescribing Clinical Trichologist and NHS Dermatology Specialist Nurse, with extensive experience diagnosing and treating scalp conditions such as psoriasis and dandruff. She is one of the few UK trichologists qualified to prescribe medication, allowing her to deliver evidence-based, medical-grade treatments. Alongside her clinical work, Marta is also a lecturer in trichology and hair sciences, contributing to research and education in scalp health.
Amy Hunt Polytar Trichologist
Amy is a qualified trichologist and hair dresser, having trained with one of the leading trichology education providers, the Institute of Trichologists on Harley Street. She has over six years’ experience in the hair industry, where she was having difficult conversations with clients on a daily basis about common hair and scalp conditions seen in the salon. It was through these real-life interactions that she developed a strong passion for educating people about what they were experiencing and how best to support their needs.
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.
Yes, Polytar can be used alongside other treatments, but consult your dermatologist to ensure compatibility.
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.
Coal tar solution 4% (w/w)
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.
You have had an allergic reaction to coal tar or any other listed ingredients.
You have infected, open, or damaged skin or pus-filled blisters (pustules).
You are under 12 years old.
You have sensitive, broken, or inflamed skin, as it may cause irritation.
Discontinue use if irritation develops.
Contact with eyes occurs rinse thoroughly with clean water.
You are exposed to strong sunlight or sunbeds, as coal tar may increase sun sensitivity.
You are wearing clothes or using fabrics (like bedding) exposed to Polytar, as it may cause staining or increase flammability.
You are taking medications that increase sun sensitivity, such as:
- Thiazide diuretics (water tablets)
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Phenothiazine tranquilisers