Coal Tar
Also known as: coal tar solution, crude coal tar, coal tar extract, pix carbonis, liquor carbonis detergens
A thick, dark liquid derived from the processing of coal. Used in some hair dyes, anti-dandruff shampoos, and psoriasis treatments. Coal tar is a known human carcinogen containing hundreds of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
1 = low concern, 10 = avoid
Risk by Usage Frequency
How risk changes depending on how often you use products containing Coal Tar.
Short-term medicated use under doctor supervision may be acceptable for severe psoriasis.
Daily topical application of a known carcinogen is strongly discouraged. Seek safer dermatological alternatives.
Unacceptable risk. Cumulative PAH exposure from repeated application poses serious cancer risk.
Health Risks
Classified as a known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1). Contains numerous PAHs linked to skin, lung, and bladder cancers.
IARC Monographs — Coal-tar pitches, Group 1 carcinogen
Increases photosensitivity, making skin more vulnerable to UV-induced damage and skin cancer.
Causes skin irritation, folliculitis, and allergic reactions. Long-term topical use is associated with skin cancer in occupational studies.
British Journal of Dermatology — occupational skin cancer from coal tar exposure
Global Regulatory Status
How coal tar is regulated in cosmetics and personal care products around the world.
100% of countries with data ban or restrict this ingredient
Details
Hair dye exemption with caution label; anti-dandruff use regulated as OTC drug.
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Coal tar banned under Annex II (entry 518); coal tar dyes regulated separately.
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Banned under retained Annex II.
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Permitted only in specific hair dye products with warnings.
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Coal tar colors regulated under strict positive list.
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Coal tar banned as cosmetic ingredient.
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Higher concentrations scheduled as medicine.
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Banned per Safety Technical Standards.
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Banned as cosmetic ingredient per ANVISA.
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Permitted in anti-dandruff products at limited concentrations.
Details
Banned under ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, aligned with EU.
Why Brands Use Coal Tar
Has anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties that help treat psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. Also used as a base for hair dye pigments.
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Better alternatives exist. Brands choose coal tar because it's cheap and effective, but safer options like salicylic acid (for dandruff/psoriasis), zinc pyrithione, tea tree oil deliver similar results without the health concerns.
Coal Tar in Product Categories
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Safe Alternatives
What Numbrrrz Uses Instead
Numbrrrz never uses coal tar or coal tar-derived ingredients. Our lip balms rely exclusively on organic plant oils, beeswax, and vitamin E for nourishment and protection.
