Coal Tar
Preparations containing coal tar (gels and ointments) may be applied directly to the skin, added (as a liquid) to the bath, or used on the scalp as a shampoo. Coal tar products are available in different strengths, and many are sold over the counter (not requiring a prescription).
Coal tar is less effective than corticosteroids and many other
psoriasis medications and, therefore, is sometimes combined with ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy for a better result.
The most potent form of coal tar may irritate the skin, is messy, has a strong odor, and may stain the skin or clothing. Thus, it is not popular with many patients.
Anthralin
Anthralin reduces the increase in skin cells and inflammation. Doctors sometimes prescribe a 15- to 30-minute application of anthralin ointment, cream, or paste once each day to treat chronic psoriasis lesions. Afterward, anthralin must be washed off the skin to prevent irritation.
This psoriasis medication often fails to adequately improve the skin, and it stains skin, bathtubs, sinks, and clothing brown or purple. In addition, the risk of skin irritation makes anthralin unsuitable for acute or actively inflamed eruptions.
Salicylic Acid
This peeling agent, which is available in many forms such as ointments, creams, gels, and shampoos, can be applied to reduce scaling of the skin or scalp. This type of psoriasis medication is often more effective when combined with topical corticosteroids, anthralin, or coal tar.
Clobetasol Propionate
This is a foam-based topical psoriasis medication (Olux®). It has been approved for the treatment of scalp and body psoriasis. The foam penetrates the skin very well, is easy to use, and is not as messy as many other topical psoriasis medications.
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