Pine Tar's Efficacy: A Natural Solution for Common Skin Issues

Crude pine tar is obtained by the destructive distillation of pine wood. Its chief constituents include resin acids and other aromatic hydrocarbons. Unlike coal tar, pine tar is not a by-product of coal processing but is derived directly from the wood of pine trees.

Pine tar is a natural, sticky substance with a characteristic pine or wood smoke scent. It is often used in its natural form or slightly refined in various skincare products.

Pine tar is available in various formulations such as soaps, shampoos, and ointments. The choice of formulation depends on the skin condition being treated and the desired effect.

In dermatological preparations, pine tar is typically used in concentrations up to 2.3%.

Pine Tar is used in combination therapies in shampoos and body washes, with cleansing and moisturizing agents like Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Glycerin. Additionally, in products like soothing creams and soaps, it's blended with emollients and anti-inflammatory agents such as Tea Tree Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil. These combinations help in achieving a balanced skin care regimen.?

How Does Pine Tar Work in Skin Conditions?

Pine tar, known for its natural soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, plays a significant role in managing several skin disorders.

• Eczema: Eczema is a condition characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed skin. Pine tar is effective in soothing the itchiness and reducing inflammation associated with eczema. Its moisturizing properties also help alleviate the dryness that often accompanies this condition.
• Psoriasis: Psoriasis presents as red, scaly patches on the skin, often accompanied by itching and discomfort. While pine tar does not cure psoriasis, it can provide symptomatic relief. The tar's soothing action helps lessen itching and inflammation, making it a supportive treatment option.
• Atopic Dermatitis: Similar to eczema, atopic dermatitis is marked by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Pine tar aids in reducing the skin's irritation and redness, offering relief to individuals with this condition.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition primarily affects the scalp, causing scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff. Pine tar's properties can be beneficial in soothing the scalp, reducing flakiness, and easing the itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis.

In my professional opinion, pine tar's natural composition makes it a favorable option for patients looking for alternative or adjunctive treatments for these skin conditions. Its ability to soothe and reduce inflammation, coupled with its moisturizing effect, addresses the key symptoms of these disorders. Furthermore, pine tar is generally well-tolerated, making it suitable for long-term use, especially in cases of chronic conditions.

Pine tar can be a suitable option for treating children with certain skin conditions like eczema, due to its natural composition and lower risk of irritation. In pediatric dermatology, it is often considered a gentler alternative, especially for children who may be sensitive to stronger treatments or have a higher risk of drug absorption and toxicity.

It is not considered a cure for serious skin conditions but can significantly reduce symptoms such as itching, flaking, and scaling. Pine tar works by soothing the skin and providing a protective layer that aids in the skin's natural healing process.

Pine tar is generally recognized as safe for topical use, and its natural origins make it a popular choice in herbal and alternative medicine.

Pine Tar's Efficacy in Childhood Eczema

A recent study titled "Effect of pine-tar bath on disease severity in moderate-to-severe childhood eczema" conducted an investigator-blinded, crossover, randomized clinical trial. The study found that bathing with pine-tar significantly improved symptoms in children with moderate-to-severe eczema. Improvements were noted in disease severity scores, Staphylococcus aureus colonisation status, and blood IgE levels. The study concluded that pine-tar baths are an effective and recommendable adjuvant treatment for childhood eczema, with good acceptability and minimal safety risks. This underscores the therapeutic potential of pine tar in managing inflammatory skin conditions like eczema

Link to full research report: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32066302/

Cautions with Pine Tar Use

• Skin Sensitivity: Pine tar can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin.
• Strong Odour: The distinctive smell of pine tar might be off-putting for some users.
• Staining: Pine tar can stain fabrics and skin, though this is usually temporary

Application and Safety

• Individuals with specific allergies, such as an allergy to pine tar, should avoid its use?
• It is always prudent to avoid contact with sensitive areas and to rinse thoroughly with water in case of accidental contact

Medsons, recognising the therapeutic benefits of pine tar for skin conditions, has innovated by introducing a product that capitalizes on these properties. This product aims to offer relief and treatment for common skin issues, leveraging the soothing? and anti-inflammatory effects of pine tar.

Medsons Aqua Dermal Aqueous Pine Tar Soothing Cleanser is designed as a triple-action, soap-free cream cleanser, incorporating the benefits of pine tar. The inclusion of 1.6% pine tar oil in its formulation is particularly noteworthy. Pine tar is known for its calming and soothing properties, which are essential in relieving itching, redness, and irritation commonly associated with skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, ichthyosis, itchy skin, certain dry forms of psoriasis, and sunburn. This concentration of pine tar, combined with tea tree oil, offers a balanced approach to skin care, leveraging pine tar's moisturizing benefits while avoiding potential irritation.

Moreover, the absence of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), parabens, alcohol, and perfumes in this cleanser addresses the growing consumer preference for skincare products free from harsh chemicals and potential allergens. This formulation respects the skin's natural moisture balance, a crucial aspect for individuals with sensitive or compromised skin barriers.

The addition of aqueous cream in the cleanser aids in retaining skin moisture, which is vital for hydrating dry and irritated skin. This property makes the product suitable for long-term use, especially for individuals with chronic skin conditions requiring consistent care. The recommendation to use Medsons Aqua Dermal Basic Aqueous Cream as a daily cream cleanser and Medsons Aqua Dermal Aqueous Anti-Itch Soothing Cream as a daily moisturizing regimen suggests a comprehensive skincare approach, addressing both cleansing and moisturizing needs effectively.

The suitability of this cleanser for children aged 1 month and above is another significant aspect, highlighting its gentle formulation. This is particularly important in pediatric dermatology, where skin sensitivity and the need for safe, effective treatments are paramount.

In conclusion, Medsons Aqua Dermal Aqueous Pine Tar Soothing Cleanser appears to be a well-formulated product that harnesses the natural benefits of pine tar and tea tree oil in a skin-friendly composition. Its focus on alleviating common symptoms of various skin conditions while maintaining skin hydration and health makes it a valuable addition to dermatological care, especially for those with sensitive or condition-prone skin. As with any skincare product, I would advise patients to start with a patch test to ensure compatibility with their skin type.

About the Author

Dr. Erum Siddiqui is a seasoned Dermatologist, trained at the prestigious College of physician and Surgeons in Karachi, Pakistan. With over a decade of experience, she specialize in treating various skin conditions, from acne and eczema to skin pigmentation disorders and skin cancer. Dr. Siddiqui’s commitment to skin health extends to her advocacy for clean, hypoallergenic skincare products that leverage both natural and synthetically derived ingredients.?

Her research contributions to multiple medical journals cover critical investigations into conditions like androgenic alopecia, female pattern hair loss, and insulin resistance in acne patients. Beyond her clinical practice, she tests and recommends an array of skincare and beauty products, providing expert advice drawn from her professional experience. As a dedicated member of the Pakistan Dermatology Association, she stays current with the latest advancements in dermatology, continually aiming to provide her patients with effective treatments and beneficial product recommendations.