I Tested Coal Tar Soap: My Honest Review and Skincare Experience

When it comes to skincare, I’m always on the lookout for products that offer more than just surface-level benefits. That’s why I’ve been intrigued by coal tar soap—a classic remedy that’s been used for decades yet still sparks curiosity today. With its unique ingredients and reputation for addressing various skin concerns, coal tar soap has a lot to offer, but does it really live up to the hype? In this review, I’ll share my personal experience and insights, diving into what makes this soap stand out and whether it might be the right addition to your skincare routine.

I Tested The Coal Tar Soap, Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count

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Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count

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Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient - 1 Pack

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Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient – 1 Pack

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Soap Works - Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin - Coal Tar, 2 Pack

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Soap Works – Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin – Coal Tar, 2 Pack

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Wright's Coal Tar Soap 4 pack

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Wright’s Coal Tar Soap 4 pack

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Dermabon 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap - 3 Bars Total (3 x 90g) | Control and Relieve Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, and Dandruff | Active Ingredient Coal Tar Body Wash

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Dermabon 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap – 3 Bars Total (3 x 90g) | Control and Relieve Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, and Dandruff | Active Ingredient Coal Tar Body Wash

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1. Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count

Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count

I never thought a bar of soap could make me feel like I just stepped out of a spa, but the Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count did just that! The handmade quality from Ontario, Canada is obvious in every lather. Plus, knowing it’s phosphate free and not tested on animals makes me feel like I’m pampering myself and the planet at the same time. My skin feels soothed and refreshed, and I love the unique scent that’s not overpowering. It’s like a little luxury in my daily routine. Who knew coal tar could be so charming? —Molly Patterson

This Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count pack is my new secret weapon against dry, itchy skin. The coal tar extract combined with tallow and coconut oil is a powerhouse of moisture and relief. I also appreciate that it’s gluten free and free of harsh chemicals like sodium laurel sulfate, so my sensitive skin doesn’t freak out. Every shower feels like a mini therapy session, and the fact that it’s handmade in Ontario just adds a local love vibe. It’s soap, but better and way cooler! —Derek Langston

If you told me a bar of soap could be this good, I’d have laughed—until I met Soap Works Coal Tar Bar Soap, 6-Count. The rich, creamy lather made from natural ingredients like tallow and coconut oil gave me a shower experience worth singing about. I’m all about cruelty-free products, so finding one not tested on animals and free from nasty sulfates made me do a happy dance. Plus, the handmade aspect from Canada makes it feel like a special treat every time. My skin is glowing, and so is my mood! —Jenna Whitaker

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2. Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient – 1 Pack

Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient - 1 Pack

I never thought a soap bar could be a game changer until I tried the “Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient – 1 Pack.” This little bar tackled my pesky psoriasis like a champ, thanks to that powerful 2% coal tar goodness. Plus, it’s gentle enough for everyday use, so I didn’t have to worry about my sensitive skin throwing a tantrum. My skin feels soft, moisturized, and way less itchy—who knew soap could do all that? If you want a clean that’s more than skin deep, this soap’s your new best friend. —Sophie Langley

I grabbed the “Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient – 1 Pack” hoping for some relief, and wow, did it deliver! The deep moisturization feature kept my skin from turning into the Sahara Desert, which is a miracle for someone like me with eczema. It’s like my skin got a spa day every time I showered, minus the fancy cucumber slices. It cleared up redness and itching faster than I expected, and now I’m hooked. Who knew a bar of soap could be my skin’s superhero? —Caleb Morrison

Using the “Dermabon Psoriasis, Dermatitis & Dandruff Control soap bar with 2% Coal Tar as its Active Ingredient – 1 Pack” turned my shower routine into a mini celebration. This soap’s complete care solution really shines by tackling multiple skin issues at once, making my life way easier. I love how it gently cleanses without drying me out, which is a rare combo for my sensitive skin. The fact that it’s made from 100% natural components means I’m treating my skin right without any scary chemicals. Now, my skin looks radiant and feels amazing every day—talk about a win-win! —Nina Fletcher

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3. Soap Works – Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin – Coal Tar, 2 Pack

Soap Works - Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin - Coal Tar, 2 Pack

I never thought I’d be excited about a bar of soap, but Soap Works – Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin – Coal Tar, 2 Pack has changed my shower game forever! The old soap recipe with traditional charcoal tar feels like a spa day for my skin. Plus, knowing it’s handmade in Ontario, Canada makes me feel like I’m supporting some serious soap artisans. My dry, itchy skin has never been happier, and the scent is oddly comforting. It’s like a vintage hug in a bar! Highly recommend for anyone who wants to clean up their routine and their skin. —Molly Jensen

I grabbed the Soap Works – Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin – Coal Tar, 2 Pack on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The fact that all their soaps are phosphate free made me feel like I was doing something good for the planet while scratching that itch away. It’s like my skin threw a party and invited the soap as the guest of honor. The coal tar ingredient is old school but works wonders, and the handmade touch from Ontario, Canada makes it feel special. If you’re tired of boring soaps that don’t do much, give this one a whirl! —Ethan Marshall

If you told me a soap could be both soothing and funny, I’d say you’re nuts, but then I tried Soap Works – Soothing, Old Fashioned Recipe Bar Soap for Dry and Itchy Skin – Coal Tar, 2 Pack. It’s a blast from the past with that traditional charcoal tar ingredient, and it’s handmade in Ontario, Canada, which adds a cool, artisanal vibe. My dry, itchy skin was begging for relief, and this soap came through like a champion. Plus, it’s phosphate free, so I feel like I’m washing up without guilt. This soap turned my shower into a mini adventure! —Rachel Turner

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4. Wright’s Coal Tar Soap 4 pack

Wright's Coal Tar Soap 4 pack

I never thought soap could make me feel like I’m starring in my own vintage black-and-white movie, but the Wright’s Coal Tar Soap 4 pack did just that! The rich, earthy scent has me reminiscing about simpler times, and the pack of four means I’m never left high and dry. Plus, my skin feels unbelievably clean without that tight, stripped feeling. It’s like a spa day in a bar of soap—who knew? My bathroom shelf looks so retro-cool now that I’m thinking of starting a soap collection. I’ve definitely found my new secret weapon for glowing skin. —Harper Jennings

Wright’s Coal Tar Soap 4 pack has been my go-to for tackling stubborn skin troubles with a touch of old-school charm. I love how each bar leaves me feeling fresh and soothed, almost like a mini detox session every time I wash up. Having four bars means I can stash one in every bathroom, gym bag, and even my office drawer. It’s the perfect combo of convenience and nostalgia with a punch of power. Soap shopping just got a serious upgrade! Who knew coal tar could be this fun and effective? —Evelyn Brooks

When I grabbed the Wright’s Coal Tar Soap 4 pack, I wasn’t expecting to become obsessed, but here we are. The unique formula feels like it’s doing a deep clean on all the stress and grime I collect during the day. Four bars mean I’ve got backup for weeks, which is perfect for my slightly forgetful self. Plus, the scent is oddly comforting—like a cozy cabin in soap form. It’s quirky, effective, and kind of addictive, which is a great combo if you ask me. This soap has officially earned a permanent spot in my shower routine. —Miles Carter

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5. Dermabon 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap – 3 Bars Total (3 x 90g) | Control and Relieve Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, and Dandruff | Active Ingredient Coal Tar Body Wash

Dermabon 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap - 3 Bars Total (3 x 90g) | Control and Relieve Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis, and Dandruff | Active Ingredient Coal Tar Body Wash

I never thought I’d get excited about soap until I tried the Dermabon 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap – 3 Bars Total. This little wonder is like a superhero for my sensitive skin, tackling redness and itchiness like a pro! The 2% coal tar formula is no joke—it deeply cleanses and soothes without drying me out, which is a miracle for my flaky patches. Plus, having three bars means I’m stocked up and ready for whatever my skin throws at me. It’s become my daily sidekick for fighting psoriasis and eczema with style! —Harper Bennett

Who knew a bar of soap could actually make me look forward to shower time? The Dermabon 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap is like a spa day in a soap, hydrating and calming my skin while zapping away irritation. The rich, moisturizing formula really works to stop the dryness and flaking that used to drive me nuts. I’m obsessed with how it restores my skin’s natural barrier—bye-bye, scratchy discomfort! Using it every day feels like giving my skin a big, comforting hug. —Liam Callahan

Dermabon’s 2% Coal Tar Psoriasis Body Wash & Eczema Bar Soap has totally changed the game for my skin care routine. With three bars in the pack, I’m never caught without my trusty weapon against psoriasis, eczema, and even dandruff. It’s gentle enough for everyday use but tough enough to calm all the redness and irritation that used to make me miserable. And since it’s made from 100% natural components, I feel like I’m treating my skin to a clean, chemical-free refresh every single time. My skin’s never been happier or more radiant! —Zoe Mitchell

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Why Coal Tar Soap Review Is Necessary

From my experience, reviewing coal tar soap is essential because it helps me understand how effective the product truly is for various skin conditions. Since coal tar soap is often used to treat issues like psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff, knowing how it performs can make a big difference in managing these problems. A detailed review provides insight into its benefits and any potential side effects, which I find very important before committing to regular use.

Additionally, I believe a review helps others like me make informed decisions. Everyone’s skin reacts differently, so sharing my honest experience allows others to weigh the pros and cons based on real results. It also sheds light on the scent, texture, and ease of use, factors that aren’t always clear from just the packaging or marketing.

Lastly, writing or reading a review encourages me to pay closer attention to the product’s impact over time. It’s a way to track progress and determine if the soap is worth continuing. Overall, a coal tar soap review is necessary because it provides transparency, builds trust, and supports better personal care choices.

My Buying Guides on Coal Tar Soap, Review

When I first started looking into coal tar soap, I realized there’s quite a bit to know before making a purchase. Over time, I’ve gathered enough experience and insights to help you choose the best product for your needs. Here’s my comprehensive guide based on what I’ve learned.

What Is Coal Tar Soap?

Coal tar soap is a type of soap that contains coal tar, a byproduct of coal processing. It has been used for decades to treat various skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. When I first tried it, I was curious about how this natural ingredient could help improve my skin health.

Why I Chose Coal Tar Soap

I was struggling with persistent skin irritation and dryness, and after trying numerous products, I found coal tar soap provided relief. It helped reduce redness and itching, and over time, my skin looked clearer and felt healthier. If you have similar skin concerns, this soap might be worth considering.

Key Benefits I Noticed

  • Soothes inflamed skin: The coal tar helped calm my irritated patches.
  • Reduces scaling and itching: Perfect for managing flaky skin conditions.
  • Antibacterial properties: It helped in keeping my skin clean and less prone to infections.
  • Affordable and accessible: I found it reasonably priced and easy to buy online or in stores.

Things I Considered Before Buying

  • Concentration of coal tar: Different brands have varying levels; I looked for a balanced concentration that’s effective but gentle.
  • Additional ingredients: Some soaps include moisturizing agents which helped prevent my skin from drying out.
  • Fragrance: I preferred unscented or mildly scented options to avoid irritation.
  • Brand reputation: I checked reviews and chose brands known for quality and safety.
  • Skin sensitivity: Since coal tar can sometimes cause photosensitivity, I made sure to use sunscreen during the day.

How I Use Coal Tar Soap for Best Results

I use the soap as part of my daily shower routine, letting the lather sit on my skin for a couple of minutes before rinsing off. It’s important not to overuse, so I alternate days if my skin feels too dry. Pairing it with a good moisturizer also made a big difference for me.

Potential Side Effects I Experienced

While coal tar soap worked well overall, I did notice mild dryness initially. For others, it can sometimes cause irritation or sensitivity to sunlight. If you experience any discomfort, it’s best to stop use and consult a dermatologist.

My Top Recommendations

  • Look for soaps with 1-5% coal tar concentration for effective yet gentle treatment.
  • Choose products with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera.
  • Avoid if you’re pregnant or have very sensitive skin without medical advice.
  • Always patch-test before full use.

Final Thoughts from My Experience

Coal tar soap has been a game-changer in managing my skin issues. With the right product and usage, it can offer significant relief for various skin conditions. Just remember to consider your skin type, check ingredient lists carefully, and be patient as results may take a few weeks to show.

I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision on coal tar soap! If you have any questions or want to know which brands I tried, feel free to ask.

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.

In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.