Tar-SM Shampoo is a medicated hair treatment
designed to manage chronic scalp conditions such as dandruff,
seborrheic dermatitis, and scalp psoriasis. It works by slowing down
skin cell growth and reducing inflammation and itching. Tar-SM is a medicated
shampoo containing active ingredients like coal tar and salicylic acid, which
are classified as keratoplastic and keratolytic agents, respectively. It is
used topically on the scalp to provide relief from persistent itching, flaking,
scaling, and redness associated with various scalp conditions. The formulation
aims to cleanse the scalp and condition the hair, leaving it manageable while
effectively treating underlying issues.
Benefits of Tar-SM Shampoo
Ø Reduces Itching and Inflammation: It effectively soothes
an irritated scalp, providing relief from discomfort and redness.
Ø Controls Flaking and Scaling: The shampoo helps to
shed dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin, controlling the buildup of
flakes and scales.
Ø Slows Skin Cell Growth: Coal tar slows the rate
at which skin cells grow and multiply, which is particularly beneficial for
conditions like psoriasis where cell turnover is too fast.
Ø Cleanses the Scalp: It provides a thorough
cleanse, removing excess oil, dirt, and product residues.
Ingredients of Tar-SM Shampoo
The
primary active ingredients in Tar-SM or similar medicated shampoos are:
Ø
Coal Tar: A dark, thick
by-product of coal processing known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-itch
properties. In medical forms, it is typically used in concentrations between
0.5% and 5%.
Ø
Salicylic Acid: A
keratolytic agent that helps to break down keratin clumps and enhance moisture
levels in the skin, facilitating the removal of dead skin cells.
Ø
Inactive ingredients: May include water,
detergents, and other conditioning agents (exact inactive ingredients vary by
specific brand).
Usage Instruction of Tar-SM Shampoo
It
is important to follow the directions provided by a healthcare professional or
the product labeling when using this type of medicated shampoo. General steps
for use include:
Ø
Wet
the hair and scalp completely with water.
Ø
Apply
a sufficient amount of shampoo and massage it into the scalp to create a
lather.
Ø
Rinse
the hair and scalp well.
Ø
Repeat
the application, ensuring a rich lather, and allow the shampoo to remain on the
scalp for the time specified in the product instructions or by a healthcare
provider.
Rinse
thoroughly with water. Precautions include avoiding contact with the eyes,
nose, or mouth, and rinsing thoroughly with water immediately if contact
occurs. This type of product may cause temporary discoloration in light-colored
hair.
Side Effects of Tar-SM Shampoo
Common
side effects are typically not severe, but if they continue or worsen, medical
advice should be sought:
Ø Scalp or Skin Irritation: Possible reactions
include a burning feeling, redness, or acne-like breakouts.
Ø Increased Sun Sensitivity: Areas treated with this
shampoo may become more reactive to sunlight, making protective measures like
clothing or sunscreen important when outdoors.
Ø Staining: There
is a potential for this type of shampoo to stain clothing, bedding, and lighter
shades of hair.
Ø Unusual Hair Loss or Thinning: This is a less frequent but potentially more serious side effect that requires medical evaluation.