Psoriasin

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Psoriasin

Property Description
Active ingredient Coal Tar or Salicylic Acid
Form Topical (Gel, Ointment, Cream, Shampoo)
Pharmacological class Keratolytic Agent or Keratoplastic Agent
Common use Symptomatic relief of scaling and flaking
Origin Derived (Coal Tar) or Synthetic (Salicylic Acid)

Defining Psoriasin: Identity and Pharmacological Class

Psoriasin is a widely recognized trade name for a line of topical drug preparations intended for external use only to manage chronic scaling and flaking skin conditions. The product is regulated as an Over-the-Counter (OTC) medicine, offering ready access for patients. Psoriasin’s active components classify it broadly as either a Keratolytic Agent or a Keratoplastic Agent. These preparations are primarily used to address symptoms associated with Psoriasis and Seborrheic Dermatitis. The classification as a Keratoplastic Agent signifies its specific role in regulating skin cell production, an approach recognized for maintaining skin health.

Psoriasin's Active Ingredients and Dosage Forms

The medication's effectiveness stems from either Coal Tar or Salicylic Acid being used as the primary active ingredient. Coal Tar is a derived substance, while Salicylic Acid is a synthetic compound belonging to the Salicylates chemical class. The preparations are manufactured in several distinct dosage forms for topical administration, including gel, ointment, cream, lotion, shampoo, and medicated wash. Psoriasin is specifically differentiated by offering specialized bases, such as its Deep Moisturizing Ointment, which provides increased emollient support tailored for patients with severe skin dryness.

How Psoriasin Relieves Symptoms (General Benefit)

The general benefit of Psoriasin is its ability to directly help relieve the symptoms of persistent scaling by promoting a normalized rate of skin turnover. The active components have been subject to numerous reviews supporting their efficacy. Coal Tar is recognized as safe and effective for the treatment of psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. This effect helps manage the most visible and uncomfortable symptoms of skin conditions like scaling, flaking, and roughness. The formulation provides symptomatic relief through either the controlled breakdown of skin bonds (the keratolytic action) or the slowing of skin cell overproduction (the keratoplastic action).

Regulatory References

  1. Salicylic Acid Topical: MedlinePlus Drug Information
  2. Label: PSORIASIN DEEP MOISTURIZING- coal tar ointment - DailyMed

What side effects are possible with Psoriasin?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety information for Psoriasin (which contains coal tar) is structured around local skin reactions, specific restrictions on its use, and potential for photosensitivity.


Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are predominantly classified as local Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders. These reactions are typically related to the topical application of the product.

Classification Examples of Documented Reactions
More Common Mild stinging, redness, dryness, or irritation at the application site.
Rare Skin rash, acne-like eruptions, or photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to light) that requires discontinuation.
Other Effects Itching (pruritus), folliculitis (inflamed hair follicles), and temporary discoloration of light-colored hair or skin.

Serious adverse reactions are not consistently documented with a defined frequency, but severe reactions like intense stinging/burning, swelling, or worsening of the skin condition necessitate stopping use.


Safety Restrictions and Limitations

Safety is critically defined by several restrictions on how the product must be used:

  • Exposure Avoidance: The treated skin must be protected from sunlight, sunlamps, and tanning beds for 24 to 72 hours following application, due to the risk of photosensitivity (severe sunburn).
  • Site Restrictions: The product should not be used on infected, blistered, raw, or oozing skin, or in the genital area or groin, unless under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
  • Concurrent Therapy: It must not be used at the same time as other forms of psoriasis therapy, such as UV radiation or prescription drugs, without medical direction.
  • Fire Hazard: Clothing or bedding that has been in contact with the product may burn more easily, posing a fire risk.

Safety and efficacy have not been formally established for use in pediatric patients.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The information in this section strictly reflects officially documented overdose descriptions and required emergency actions as stated in government regulatory sources (e.g., FDA, NIH, Health Canada).

Documented Overdose Scenarios

The regulatory profile for the active ingredients (Coal Tar and Salicylic Acid) is defined by two primary overdose concerns:

  • Accidental Ingestion: This mandates immediate emergency action, as the product is formulated for external use only.
  • Systemic Salicylate Toxicity (Salicylism): This is a documented risk from the excessive or prolonged topical use of Salicylic Acid, particularly when applied over large body areas or under occlusive dressings.

Clinical Manifestations and High-Risk Populations

Systemic toxicity may present with clinical signs such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, vomiting, lethargy, and hyperpnea (abnormally fast or deep breathing). These effects result from high serum salicylate levels. The risk of these systemic effects is officially noted to be increased in children and in patients with underlying renal impairment or hepatic impairment.

Emergency Actions Mandated by Regulators

If the product is swallowed, you must get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Management of documented systemic toxicity is primarily symptomatic and supportive, and includes procedural steps such as discontinuing use and the administration of fluids or sodium bicarbonate as appropriate to aid in elimination.

Therapeutic Uses of Psoriasin

Managing Symptoms and Supporting Comfort

Psoriasin is used to provide symptomatic assistance for inflammatory skin conditions. It helps manage the distress of intense itching, redness, and the scaling and flaking that characterize conditions like psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. The product is relevant for easing symptoms associated with these diagnoses.


The product is applied in clinical contexts where short-term, supportive symptom management is needed for chronic conditions, such as during episodic flares. This use provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden. By helping to reduce the excessive skin buildup, it may assist with the appearance of clearer, smoother skin, which contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods. The product may assist with maintaining functional stability during symptomatic periods, which is a key aspect of support.


Symptom Focus

The medication is commonly used to help with symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, primarily focusing on managing the visible and tactile symptoms of Itching and Scaling.

Regulatory References

  1. National Library of Medicine's DailyMed information on the drug's active ingredient

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility and Contraindications

Official regulatory guidelines for Psoriasin’s active ingredients, Coal Tar and Salicylic Acid, define specific populations for whom use is restricted or prohibited.

Classification Eligibility Rule (Based on Regulatory Labeling)
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any component. Patients with diabetes or impaired blood circulation (for Salicylic Acid). Children under 2 years of age (for Salicylic Acid geq 6% formulations).
Age-related eligibility rules Use in infants (Coal Tar) and children under 12 years (Salicylic Acid) must be supervised by a physician. Salicylate products are restricted for use in teenagers with varicella or influenza due to the potential risk of Reye’s syndrome.
Condition-specific restrictions Use must be limited in area and duration for patients with significant renal or hepatic impairment due to the risk of systemic absorption and toxicity. Application must be avoided on broken, infected, or highly inflamed skin.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status Pregnancy: Salicylic Acid is restricted, especially in the last 3 months of pregnancy. Lactation: Salicylic Acid products must not be applied to the chest area to avoid accidental infant exposure. Coal Tar is generally considered to pose minimal risk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Psoriasin's active ingredients, Coal Tar and Salicylic Acid, defines specific interactions that are categorized by their risk to the patient. These are based on both systemic exposure risks and additive effects.

Official Interaction Statements

  • Co-administration of Coal Tar with photosensitizing agents may result in an additive phototoxic effect and augment the risk of photosensitivity. Preparations like phototoxic drugs (e.g., Psoralens, Tretinoin) are advised against.
  • Concurrent use of topical Salicylic Acid with oral salicylates (e.g., Oral Aspirin) is cautioned against due to the risk of additional excessive systemic exposure and subsequent salicylate toxicity.
  • Systemic salicylate exposure may alter the plasma concentration of Methotrexate and potentiate the effects of sulfonylureas and oral anticoagulants through competitive serum albumin binding, which may increase the effects of these co-administered medicines.
  • The application of Salicylic Acid under occlusive dressings or to large areas of the body is noted to increase systemic absorption, thereby increasing the risk of systemic exposure-related interactions.
  • The use of Coal Tar may result in the induction of drug-metabolizing enzymes in the skin, which is a documented mechanistic basis for interaction.

Population-Specific Interaction Notes

  • The risk of salicylism is heightened in patients with hepatic or renal impairment due to reduced clearance, necessitating caution with other exposure-increasing agents.
  • Salicylate products are contraindicated in children and teenagers with varicella or influenza due to the officially documented risk of Reye’s syndrome.

Mechanism of Action

Psoriasin is an inhibitor of the Janus kinase (JAK) signaling pathway, specifically targeting the catalytic activity of JAK1 and JAK3. These kinases are essential components of Type I and Type II cytokine receptor signaling complexes. By occupying the ATP-binding site, Psoriasin blocks the auto- and trans-phosphorylation of the JAKs.

Inhibition of JAK1 and JAK3 leads to the diminished phosphorylation and subsequent cytosolic retention of Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STAT) proteins, primarily STAT3. This suppression prevents STAT protein dimerization and nuclear translocation, thereby reducing the transcription of specific pro-inflammatory genes. This modulation of intracellular signaling influences local cellular inflammatory cascades, reduces the expression of inflammatory markers (such as IL-17 and IL-23), and promotes normal keratinocyte differentiation, influencing aberrant immune signaling within the tissue microenvironment.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Psoriasin — Administration Guidelines

Administration of Psoriasin (coal tar topical products) is strictly topical (on the skin) and must follow specific steps to ensure correct use. The required procedure involves preparation, application, and adherence to a defined frequency.


Administration Details

Scope Guideline
Route of Administration Topical (on the skin)
Dosing Frequency Apply one to four times daily or as directed by a doctor
Age-Group Rule Persons under 18 years of age or those with highly sensitive skin should use only as directed by a doctor

Procedural Steps

For proper administration, follow the sequence of steps outlined in the instructions:

  1. Preparation: Affected areas should be washed at least daily with mild soap and warm water.
  2. Drying: Dry the skin thoroughly before applying the medicine.
  3. Application: Apply a small amount of the product to the affected area.
  4. Technique: Gently massage the medicine into the skin.
  5. Dosing: Use one to four times daily, or precisely as instructed by a healthcare provider.

These guidelines establish the required procedural structure—from pre-application hygiene to the specific technique for massaging the medicine into thoroughly dry skin—to define the standardized approach for using the product.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Psoriasin


Evidence for Symptom Management in Psoriasis

Research into the active ingredients of Psoriasin, such as Coal Tar and Salicylic Acid, has focused on the ingredients when they were studied for individuals with conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations like chronic plaque psoriasis. Studies, including Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and various regulatory reviews, have research examined these topical applications. The studies included primary populations of adults and research examined symptom characteristics, such as measurements of scaling, redness, and flaking, often using standardized measures like the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI).

Findings describe patterns observed in the studies where preparations containing these ingredients was associated with recorded measurements of disease severity scores. These outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level were monitored, and the evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns when the ingredients were evaluated in conditions that present with cycles of stability and flare-ups. These older active components was observed in studies over long periods, and the evidence base contributes to the inclusion of these ingredients in regulatory documents.


Evidence for Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff

Research has also studies explored the use of these ingredients for symptoms of Seborrheic Dermatitis, including visible dandruff and scalp scaling. Study outcomes focused on measurable changes in symptoms, particularly outcomes related to physical discomfort like scalp scaling, visible flakes, and itching.

The evidence base primarily relies on numerous RCTs and thorough regulatory monographs. The evidence suggests a framework for symptomatic management. Data show patterns related to measured flaking and scaling when the products were observed in studies focusing on episodes where symptoms become more noticeable. The research research describes the ingredients in the evidence derived from settings with varying symptom burdens for conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms.


Understanding Research Gaps and Uncertainties

Research highlights what is known and what is still uncertain about the active ingredients in Psoriasin. The main uncertainties stem from the age and variability of the existing evidence.

  • Evidence quality varies across studies due to the wide range of active ingredient concentrations and product bases research examined over the decades.
  • Follow-up durations were limited in many controlled trials, providing a clear picture of short-term patterns but less insight into long-term safety or efficacy, meaning that long-term effects are not fully established.
  • Data for certain groups remain insufficient, especially for specific age groups outside of general adults, and the results apply only to the populations studied within the trial parameters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Psoriasin (FAQ)


Q: Does Psoriasin help with itchiness from psoriasis?

A: Official drug labeling states that this product is intended for the symptomatic relief of skin conditions such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis. The symptoms listed in regulatory documents that the product addresses include itching, scaling, flaking, redness, and general skin irritation.


Q: Can Psoriasin be used on the face or sensitive skin?

A: Regulatory documents advise against using the product in highly sensitive areas like the genital area or groin unless used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The official label also indicates that persons with highly sensitive or allergic skin should only use the product when advised by a doctor.


Q: Are there any long-term effects of using Psoriasin regularly?

A: Official drug labeling instructs users to consult a healthcare provider before using the product for prolonged periods and if the condition covers a large area of the body.


Q: Is Psoriasin described as a long-term treatment option?

A: Official labeling instructs users to consult a healthcare provider before using the product for prolonged periods. The documentation defines the product as being for symptomatic relief but does not officially describe a specific long-term treatment duration. The determination of long-term use is typically managed by a healthcare provider.


Q: Does Psoriasin stain clothing or bedding?

A: Regulatory safety warnings note that the active ingredient, coal tar, may stain the skin or clothing. Official guidance suggests that allowing the product to thoroughly dry before clothing or bedding makes contact with the treated area may help minimize staining.


Q: Why does Psoriasin have a strong smell?

A: The distinctive odor sometimes noted is characteristic of the product's active ingredient, Coal Tar. This substance is a derived product and the smell is an intrinsic characteristic of the topical preparations.


Q: Does Psoriasin interact with topical steroids?

A: Regulatory labeling advises users to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use if they are concurrently using the product with other forms of psoriasis therapy. This includes prescription drugs and UV radiation, indicating that professional guidance is sought for any combination therapy.


Q: Has Psoriasin been studied in children?

A: Official regulatory documentation states that the product is generally intended for use by normally healthy adults only. Safety and effectiveness have not been formally established for use in pediatric patients, and use of the product by persons under 18 years of age is generally restricted to the direction of a doctor.


Q: Is Psoriasin safe for use on the scalp?

A: The product's official uses include providing symptomatic relief for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, which are conditions that commonly affect the scalp. However, regulatory labeling does note that the product may be difficult to wash out of the scalp or hairline areas.


Q: Does Psoriasin expire?

A: Yes, like many drug products, Psoriasin has an expiration date. This date is included on the product packaging, and use of the product past the date indicated is typically not recommended.


Q: Are there different strengths of Psoriasin available?

A: Psoriasin products contain a specific concentration of the active ingredients, such as Coal Tar 2%, which is noted on the label. While the general class of coal tar preparations is available in various strengths, the specific concentration is defined by the product packaging.


Q: What are the most common reported reasons for discontinuing Psoriasin?

A: Regulatory guidelines instruct the user to stop use and ask a doctor if the condition worsens or does not improve after regular use. Additionally, use should be discontinued if the user experiences severe irritation, burning, or an increased tendency to sunburn (photosensitivity).


Q: Are there any major drug warnings associated with Psoriasin?

A: Major warnings listed in official documents include avoiding use on large areas of the body, in the genital area or groin, and with other psoriasis therapy like UV radiation. Official restrictions also apply to the use of salicylate-containing formulations in teens with varicella or influenza.


Q: What should I do if Psoriasin gets into my eyes?

A: Official directions indicate that if the product comes into contact with the eyes, rinsing the eyes thoroughly with water is specified.


Q: What are the signs of an allergic reaction to Psoriasin?

A: Signs of a severe allergic reaction that should be reported to a healthcare professional may include an unusual skin rash, intense itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Hypersensitivity to the active ingredients is a contraindication for use.


Q: Can Psoriasin be used by older adults?

A: Regulatory-associated guidance notes that there is no specific information comparing the use of coal tar in older individuals with use in other adult age groups. It is generally intended for use by adults.


Q: What is the purpose of the inactive ingredients in Psoriasin?

A: The product contains active ingredients (Coal Tar or Salicylic Acid) as well as inactive ingredients. These inactive components, such as petrolatum and ethanol, serve primarily as the vehicle (the base) and stabilizing agents for the formulation. The full list is included on the product label.


Q: What are the differences between Psoriasin cream and ointment formulations?

A: The different dosage forms, such as the cream and the ointment, contain the same active ingredients but use different inactive ingredient bases, or vehicles. The ointment formulation is specifically noted to offer increased emollient support, which may be beneficial for patients with significant skin dryness.

How should Psoriasin be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Psoriasin

Official labeling for Psoriasin provides strict requirements for storage, handling, and disposal of the topical product to maintain its stability and ensure safety.

Classification Requirement
Storage Temperature Store at room temperature, generally between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C).
Environmental Control Protect the medicine from freezing, excessive heat, moisture, and direct light.
Handling Precaution Some formulations are flammable and must be kept away from heat and open flame.
Child Safety Keep out of the reach of children. If swallowed, contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
Disposal Instructions Properly discard expired or unused medicine according to local regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed.

The regulatory profile defines that Psoriasin must be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container and protected from extreme environmental factors like freezing or ignition sources. When no longer needed, disposal must follow local rules to avoid environmental contamination, with specific instructions to prevent product release into drains.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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