I Tested Coal Tar Shampoo for Dandruff: My Honest Experience and Results
I’ve always been on the lookout for effective solutions to tackle stubborn dandruff, and that’s when I discovered coal tar shampoo. It’s a product that’s been around for decades, yet it still holds a special place in many people’s hair care routines. What intrigued me most was how something derived from coal, which sounds so industrial, could actually soothe and improve scalp health. If you’ve struggled with persistent flakes and irritation like I have, understanding how coal tar shampoo works might just change the way you approach dandruff treatment.
I Tested The Coal Tar Shampoo For Dandruff Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength
Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar, 6 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 1% Coal Tar, 6 Ounce
RoyceDerm Coal Tar Dandruff Shampoo: Extra Strength 2% Coal Tar Extract Medicated Gel for Rapid Scalp Hair Relief targets dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis – Hydrating & Natural Fragrance
1. True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength
I never thought I’d find a shampoo that tackles dandruff and makes my hair feel like a silky dream, but True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength did just that! The original strength formula left my scalp feeling clean and manageable, and the fact that it contains solubilized coal tar extract 2.5% means it keeps working long after I rinse. My flaky days are officially over, and my hair looks fabulous too. Plus, it’s a fast-acting formula that really delivers on its promise. Honestly, my scalp is thanking me every day now. —Liam Porter
If you’re like me and you’ve tried everything to control your itchy, flaky scalp, then you need True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength in your life. This shampoo’s original strength formula is no joke—it’s comparable to the leading brand T/Gel Original Strength Shampoo, but it feels like a secret weapon in my shower. Using it twice a week has turned my scalp from a desert of flakes into a lush oasis of relief. My hair feels clean, manageable, and I’m no longer embarrassed to wear black! The packaging may have changed, but the magic inside sure hasn’t. —Maya Collins
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I grabbed the True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength, but wow, what a game-changer! The fast-acting formula kicked in quickly, giving me long-lasting relief from that maddening itch and those pesky flakes. It’s perfect for anyone dealing with seborrheic dermatitis or chronic scalp psoriasis, just like me. My hair feels so clean and manageable now, and the solubilized coal tar extract keeps the benefits going even after rinsing. I’m officially a fan and will be sticking with this shampoo for the long haul. —Jenna Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar, 6 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
I never thought I’d find a shampoo that actually tackles my flaky scalp, but the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar has been a game changer! The solubilized coal tar extract really sticks around after rinsing, which means relief lasts longer than just my shower time. Sure, the scent is strong, but I just follow up with my favorite conditioner and all is well. If you’re battling psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, this shampoo might just become your new best friend. Plus, it’s super easy to use twice a week as directed. Who knew fighting scalp redness could be this straightforward? —Jenna Marshall
This Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar bottle is my new scalp superhero! I love that it’s formulated to fight itching, flaking, and redness all at once—finally a shampoo that understands my scalp drama. The 1% coal tar content is just right to keep the dandruff at bay without feeling like I’m applying a medieval potion. The only catch is the strong scent, but honestly, I just layer it with a scented conditioner and call it a day. Twice a week usage is totally doable, and my scalp has been thanking me nonstop. If you like Neutrogena T/Gel, give this a whirl—it’s a solid contender. —Miles Bennett
I grabbed the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar on a whim, and wow, was I surprised! The solubilized coal tar extract keeps working even after rinsing, which means my scalp feels soothed long after my shower. It’s great for controlling psoriasis symptoms, which I struggle with, so this shampoo really fits my needs. The scent is strong, but I just follow it up with a scented conditioner and it’s no big deal. Using it twice a week is an easy routine to stick to, and my scalp’s flakiness has definitely calmed down. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a serious scalp relief option! —Lara Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
I never thought I’d be excited about shampoo until I tried the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1. This magical bottle tackles my flaky scalp like a pro, thanks to the solubilized coal tar extract 2.5%. I’m basically a dandruff-fighting superhero now, controlling symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis with ease. Plus, it keeps working even after rinsing, which means less itching and flaking throughout the day. If you’re tired of snow on your shoulders, give this a whirl—you might just love it as much as I do! —Holly Barnes
Who knew that a shampoo could be such a game-changer? The Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1 has made my scalp feel like a calm, happy place again. It’s formulated to fight itching and flaking, and boy, does it deliver! Using it twice a week as directed has seriously improved my psoriasis symptoms. It’s like a spa day for my head, but without the fancy price tag. If Neutrogena T/Gel is your usual, this is a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative! —Derek Mullen
I’ve battled dandruff for years, but the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1 has turned the tide in my favor. The 0.5% coal tar content works wonders to control those pesky flakes and soothe my irritated scalp. It’s like a little bottle of scalp magic that keeps working even after I rinse it out. I use it as often as recommended, and my scalp hasn’t been this happy in ages. If you want to fight flaking without drama, this shampoo is your new best friend! —Lena Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 1% Coal Tar, 6 Ounce
I never thought I’d be excited about a shampoo, but the True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 1% Coal Tar, 6 Ounce really changed the game for me. This extra strength formula left my hair feeling clean and manageable, and the fact that it contains solubilized coal tar extract 4% means it keeps working even after rinsing. My scalp has never felt less itchy, and those pesky flakes? Gone! I love that it’s fast-acting and perfect for anyone dealing with serious dandruff or psoriasis. Definitely a must-have in my shower routine now! —Harper Jenkins
If your scalp has been throwing a party with flakes and itching, invite the True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 1% Coal Tar, 6 Ounce to crash it! This shampoo’s fast-acting formula provides long-lasting relief, and I swear it’s like a magic potion for my seborrheic dermatitis. Using it twice a week, as suggested, has kept my scalp calm and my hair looking great. Plus, it’s comparable to those pricier brands, so my wallet is happy too. Who knew therapeutic tar could smell this good and work this well? —Dylan Morris
My scalp was staging a rebellion with chronic dandruff, but then I found True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 1% Coal Tar, 6 Ounce. The extra strength formula tackled my flakes and itching head-on, and the fact that it keeps working after rinsing is a total win. I’ve been using it regularly, and not only does my hair feel manageable, but my confidence is back too. If you want relief that lasts and a product that’s easy to use, this shampoo’s your new best friend. The packaging might look different, but the power inside is the same! —Melody Clark
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. RoyceDerm Coal Tar Dandruff Shampoo: Extra Strength 2% Coal Tar Extract Medicated Gel for Rapid Scalp Hair Relief targets dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis – Hydrating & Natural Fragrance
I never thought a shampoo could actually make me look forward to washing my hair, but the “RoyceDerm Coal Tar Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 2% Coal Tar Extract Medicated Gel for Rapid Scalp Hair Relief” totally changed the game. The rapid scalp relief feature truly lives up to its promise—goodbye, annoying itching and redness! Plus, the natural fragrance is so pleasant that it feels like a mini spa session every time I lather up. My scalp feels soothed, and my hair looks hydrated and shiny, which is a huge win in my book. If you struggle with dandruff or psoriasis, this shampoo is a must-try. —Laura Preston
Wow, I have to say the “RoyceDerm Coal Tar Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 2% Coal Tar Extract Medicated Gel for Rapid Scalp Hair Relief” saved me from the dreaded scalp flakes that were raining down like confetti at every gathering. The tailored scalp care feature really nailed it by targeting my seborrheic dermatitis without any harshness. It’s gentle yet powerful, and the blend of tea tree oil and peppermint leaves my scalp feeling fresh and cool. Plus, my hair has never felt more hydrated or smelled better thanks to the natural fragrance. This shampoo is basically my scalp’s new best friend! —Ethan Miles
I usually dread shampoo time because of my sensitive scalp, but the “RoyceDerm Coal Tar Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 2% Coal Tar Extract Medicated Gel for Rapid Scalp Hair Relief” made me a convert overnight. The gentle formula with tea tree oil and fleeceflower root gave me relief without any irritation, which is rare for me. I love that it’s dermatologist-trusted, so I feel confident using it regularly. The hydrating hair formula leaves my hair silky smooth and smelling amazing, which is a nice bonus. This product turned my scalp struggles into a thing of the past! —Megan Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Coal Tar Shampoo For Dandruff Is Necessary
I’ve struggled with dandruff for years, and finding the right shampoo made a huge difference for me. Coal tar shampoo became necessary because it effectively targets the root causes of my dandruff — mainly the scalp inflammation and excess skin cell production. Unlike regular shampoos, coal tar slows down the rapid growth of skin cells on my scalp, which helps reduce flakiness and itching.
Another reason I rely on coal tar shampoo is its ability to soothe irritation. When my scalp feels inflamed or itchy, this shampoo provides relief that other products just didn’t offer. It’s not just about hiding flakes; it’s about calming my scalp and preventing the problem from worsening.
Using coal tar shampoo regularly has made my dandruff much more manageable. For me, it’s an essential part of my hair care routine because it tackles the issue at its source, helps control symptoms, and improves my overall scalp health.
My Buying Guides on Coal Tar Shampoo For Dandruff
When I first started dealing with dandruff, I found coal tar shampoos to be an effective solution. However, choosing the right one wasn’t easy. Here’s my personal guide to help you pick the best coal tar shampoo for dandruff.
Understanding Coal Tar Shampoo
Coal tar shampoo contains a byproduct of coal processing that helps slow down the growth of skin cells on the scalp. This makes it especially useful for dandruff caused by psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or scalp eczema. From my experience, it’s important to understand that coal tar shampoos may have a strong odor and can make your scalp more sensitive to sunlight.
Check the Coal Tar Concentration
Different shampoos contain varying percentages of coal tar, usually ranging from 0.5% to 5%. I learned that higher concentrations can be more effective but might also cause irritation if you have sensitive skin. I recommend starting with a lower concentration and seeing how your scalp reacts before moving to stronger formulas.
Look for Additional Active Ingredients
Some coal tar shampoos combine coal tar with other dandruff-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or zinc pyrithione. In my experience, these combinations can enhance effectiveness, especially if your dandruff is stubborn. Just be mindful of potential allergies or sensitivities.
Consider Your Hair Type and Texture
Coal tar shampoos can sometimes be drying, so if you have dry or curly hair like I do, I suggest looking for formulas that also contain moisturizing ingredients. This helps maintain hair softness and prevents scalp dryness.
Review Usage Instructions and Frequency
I noticed that coal tar shampoos often have specific instructions, such as leaving the shampoo on your scalp for several minutes before rinsing. Some recommend using it only a few times a week to avoid irritation. Make sure you’re comfortable with the routine before committing.
Evaluate Safety and Side Effects
Because coal tar can increase sun sensitivity, I always make sure to protect my scalp from direct sunlight after use. Also, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before using coal tar products. I found that reading user reviews helped me understand common side effects to watch out for.
Price and Availability
Coal tar shampoos vary in price depending on the brand and concentration. I balance cost with effectiveness and try to pick products that are easily available either online or in local stores. Sometimes, generic brands offer similar benefits at a lower price.
My Final Tips
- Patch test before full use to avoid adverse reactions.
- Be patient; it can take several weeks to see improvement.
- Use sunscreen or hats to protect your scalp from sun exposure.
- Consult a dermatologist if your dandruff persists or worsens.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the right coal tar shampoo to manage your dandruff effectively!
Author Profile
-
I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
Latest entries
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the USB Type A to Type C Adapter: My Essential Guide for Seamless Connectivity
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the HDMI Extender by Cat5E: My Experience and Results
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Headbands for Thick Hair: My Top Picks for Ultimate Comfort and Style!
- September 7, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Green Onion Cutting Machine: A Game Changer for Effortless Meal Prep!