Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid is a combination topical treatment containing Coal Tar (a keratolytic agent), Dithranol (an anti-proliferative), and Salicylic Acid (a skin softener). It is primarily used to treat psoriasis, reduce scaling, and slow excessive skin cell growth.

Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid is a topical medication that combines three active ingredients to manage psoriasis. Coal Tar works by reducing itching, scaling, and inflammation while slowing skin cell production. Dithranol normalises rapid skin cell growth and has anti-inflammatory effects. Salicylic Acid acts as a keratolytic to break down thick scales and soften hardened skin. Together, these ingredients help clear plaques, reduce redness, and improve skin appearance in plaque psoriasis.

This treatment should be applied only under medical supervision. Your doctor will guide application frequency, duration, and contact time based on your condition, skin sensitivity, and response. It is typically used once or twice daily on affected areas after cleaning, with short contact periods to minimise irritation. Improvement often begins within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Extra care is needed if you have sensitive skin, open wounds, or are pregnant, as monitoring for irritation or staining is essential.

Although Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid does not cure psoriasis, it effectively controls symptoms and promotes clearer skin. By combining keratolytic action, cell growth regulation, and anti-inflammatory benefits, it offers a targeted approach to managing chronic plaque psoriasis and enhancing skin comfort.

Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid is typically indicated by a doctor for

Psoriasis

To reduce plaques, scaling, itching, and thickening in plaque psoriasis.

Chronic plaque psoriasis

To clear stubborn scaly patches and slow skin cell overgrowth.

Scaly skin conditions

To soften and remove excess keratin buildup on affected areas.

Inflammatory skin plaques

To decrease redness and inflammation associated with psoriasis.

Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid supports psoriasis management by targeting multiple symptoms, providing benefits such as:

• Removes scales and softens skin through Salicylic Acid, promoting a smoother texture.

• Slows rapid skin cell growth with Dithranol, reducing plaque thickness.

• Reduces itching, scaling, and inflammation with Coal Tar for greater comfort.

• Clears plaques and improves skin appearance with consistent use.

• Minimises redness and irritation in psoriasis-affected areas.

• Enhances overall skin health when used as directed under supervision.

Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

• These are usually mild and often improve with adjusted use:

• Skin irritation or burning sensation

• Temporary redness at the application site

• Skin staining (brownish discolouration)

• Dryness or peeling of skin

• Mild itching

• Follicular irritation

Uncommon Side Effects

• These occur less often but can affect some users:

• Increased sensitivity to light

• Skin discolouration persists after use

• Follicular pustules

• Mild allergic rash

• Stinging upon application

• Temporary hyperpigmentation

Serious Side Effects (Require Immediate Medical Attention)

• Rare but serious; seek help promptly if you notice:

• Severe burning or blistering

• Widespread allergic reaction, such as swelling or hives

• Signs of infection, such as pus or fever

• Unusual skin changes suggesting sensitivity

• Prolonged severe irritation or ulceration

• Apply Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid exactly as suggested by your doctor, based on your skin condition, age, and other treatments you may be using.

• It is usually applied once or twice daily to clean and dry affected areas.

• Wash hands before and after application unless treating hands.

• Use a thin layer and gently rub in; avoid healthy skin.

• Do not cover with bandages unless advised.

• Do not change the amount or frequency on your own. Always follow medical advice.

Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid combines three active ingredients (Coal Tar, Dithranol, and Salicylic Acid) that act through complementary pathways to manage psoriasis:

• Coal Tar: Reduces DNA synthesis in skin cells and has anti-inflammatory properties. This slows excessive cell turnover and relieves itching and scaling.

• Dithranol: Inhibits keratinocyte proliferation and normalises skin cell growth. It reduces plaque thickness by targeting abnormal cell division in psoriatic skin.

• Salicylic Acid: A keratolytic agent that breaks down corneocyte bonds. This softens scales, promotes desquamation, and enhances penetration of other ingredients.

• Together, these provide a multi-targeted approach: keratolysis, cell growth regulation, and anti-inflammatory action. This combination helps clear plaques, reduce inflammation, and restore normal skin turnover in psoriasis patients.

• Use Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid exactly as prescribed and apply it only to the affected skin. It works best when used consistently, and you should avoid using more than the recommended amount because that may increase irritation without improving results.

• If your skin becomes redder, more burning, or more sensitive, reduce use and speak with your doctor. Coal Tar may also stain skin, hair, clothing, and bedding, so take care during and after application.

• Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and broken skin unless your doctor advises otherwise. After use, wash your hands well unless your hands are being treated.

• Coal Tar may increase sensitivity to sunlight, so limit strong sun exposure and use protective clothing when needed.

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and do not freeze it. Keep Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid out of the reach of children, and do not use it after the expiry date.

• Food does not usually affect this medicine because Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid is for external use only.

• Meals do not change how it works on the skin, and there are no known meaningful food interactions.

• Alcohol does not directly interact with the medicine, but alcohol-based skin or hair products may worsen dryness or irritation.

• Keep your routine gentle if your skin is already sensitive.

Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid may interact with certain medicines or skin products that increase irritation or dryness.

• Other topical acne, exfoliating, or anti-psoriatic products may make the skin more sensitive if used together, so medical guidance is important before combining treatments.

• Steroid creams, retinoids, and other keratolytic agents should not be mixed casually unless advised by your doctor.

• If you use multiple scalp or skin treatments, tell your doctor or pharmacist so the regimen can be checked for overlap and irritation risk.

Certain skin and medical conditions may change how well Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid is tolerated. Psoriasis and other scaly skin conditions may improve with this treatment, but very inflamed, cracked, or infected skin may need separate medical care first.

People with a history of skin sensitivity, allergy to any ingredient, or severe irritation from coal tar or salicylic acid products should use this medicine only after medical advice. If the treated area becomes more painful, swollen, or develops oozing, contact your doctor promptly.

Using too much Coal Tar + Dithranol + Salicylic Acid may cause stronger burning, redness, peeling, dryness, or staining of the skin and nearby materials. Excessive use may also increase irritation without improving the result. If too much is applied, wash the area gently and stop using the product until you speak with your doctor. Seek medical advice if the reaction is severe, widespread, or does not improve.

• If you miss an application, apply for it as soon as you remember.

• If it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed one.

• Do not apply extra to make up for a missed application.