How does strong coal tar and tar pomade work?
Tar treatments work by loosening skin flakes, reducing inflammation and slowing the production of new skin cells that are reproducing too quickly in psoriasis. Before starting treatment with coal tar or tar pomade, scaling should ideally be removed by adequate application of emollient.
Strong coal tar comes in three strengths, 1%, 2.5% and 5%. The lowest strength is used first and if tolerated for a week the strength is increased and so on until 5% is used. Sometimes tar pomade is prescribed instead and it comes in one strength only. Whichever ointment is prescribed it should be applied one to two times a day to areas of psoriasis on the arms, legs, front and back, as directed by your doctor or specialist nurse.
Tar should not be used in the genital area or face (unless instructed by the dermatologist) as it may cause irritation.
What are the side effects?
- One of the side effects may be irritation of the skin. If this occurs, reduce the strength you are using. If irritation occurs when you are using the lowest strength of coal tar or using the tar pomade stop the treatment. If irritation persists despite stopping the treatment, contact your doctor or specialist nurse.
- Tar products can be messy and smelly. It may be useful to wear old clothes after application. Sometimes we use special cotton bandages to stop the tar getting onto your clothes.
- Tar treatments also dry the skin so it is important to use an emollient in between times to keep your skin comfortable and moisturised.
- Tar treatments can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is important to cover up with clothes, use a sunscreen and a hat if you are in the sun.
Precautions
- These products contain paraffin which is flammable. Do not smoke, use naked flames (e.g. candles, BBQs, be near people who are smoking or using naked flames) or be near anything else which may cause a fire whilst these products are in contact with your skin, clothes dressings or bandaged.
- If you are having ultraviolet light treatment or radiotherapy, check with your medical and nursing team if there is any specific guidance on your strong coal tar or tar pomade use prior to starting treatment.
Useful sources of information
For Further Information
Medicines Information Patient Helpline:
Tel: 0191 282 3016. Available 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays). This helpline is available for patients of the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals, to answer any questions they may have regarding their medicines.
Dermatology:
Tel: 0191 282 0098. Available 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays).
Out-of-hours Advice:
Contact NHS 111 or visit your nearest NHS Walk-in Centre.
