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Polytar Medicated Scalp Shampoo

Trusted for over 60 years by dermatologists, pharmacists, and families to help soothe and treat common scalp conditions.

Clinically Proven

Polytar is effective for psoriasis, eczema, dandruff, and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Our Tar Solution 4% formula is a time-tested ingredient known for its healing properties

and has been trusted by experts for generations.

4% Shampoo

Cleanses and soothes the scalp while slowing excessive skin cell growth.

Coal Tar

A natural, thick oil with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-itch properties.

How To Use

Using Polytar 4% Coal Tar Shampoo is easy and straightforward.

See how Polytar helps treat
common scalp conditions.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff)

Minimise dry flakes and soothe 
scalp discomfort.

Psoriasis

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

Eczema

Calm dryness, itching, and inflammation to restore comfort.

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.

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