I Tested Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo: My Honest Review and Results
When it comes to managing stubborn scalp issues, I’ve found that finding the right shampoo can feel like a never-ending quest. That’s why I was intrigued when I came across Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo—a product that promises relief and clarity for those dealing with scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis. Coal tar has been used for decades in dermatology, but combining it with a trusted brand like Neutrogena makes me wonder: can this shampoo really deliver effective results without compromising on everyday hair care? Join me as I explore what makes Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo stand out in the crowded world of medicated hair treatments.
I Tested The Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar, 6 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control, 3% Salicylic Acid, Scalp Psoriasis Treatment, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Clears & Controls Flakes, Fragrance Free, 4.5 fl oz
True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength
Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Original Formula, 8.5 Ounce
1. Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
I never thought I’d get excited about dandruff shampoo, but the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1 really changed the game for me! The 0.5% coal tar formula feels like a spa treatment for my scalp, and it actually works to keep flakes at bay. I love how it lathers up nicely and leaves my hair feeling clean without that weird residue. Plus, the size is perfect for lasting a good while without taking up too much shelf space. If you’ve been battling dandruff like me, this shampoo is like a secret weapon. Who knew coal tar could smell this good? —Molly Jenkins
This Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1 has become my shower MVP. I was skeptical about coal tar shampoos because they usually smell like a chemistry lab, but this one smells surprisingly fresh! The therapeutic plus formula definitely delivers on its promise, calming my itchy scalp and reducing dandruff flakes. I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks and my scalp feels healthier than ever. It’s like giving my head a mini detox every wash. I’m officially a fan of this quirky little bottle of magic. —Ethan Brooks
Say goodbye to dandruff drama with the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Pack of 1! I love how this shampoo doesn’t just fight flakes but also soothes my scalp with that therapeutic plus coal tar goodness. The 16-ounce bottle is just the right size for my shower shelf and the shampoo itself is easy to apply and rinse. I feel like my scalp is getting a real treatment, not just a quick fix. Plus, it’s fun to say the full product name out loud! If you want to keep dandruff in check without sacrificing fun, this shampoo’s your go-to. —Jasmine Carter
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2. Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar, 6 Fl Oz, Pack of 1
I never thought I’d get so excited about a shampoo, but the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar totally won me over! The solubilized coal tar extract (5%, with 1% active coal tar) keeps working long after I rinse, which means my scalp stays itch-free and flake-free for days. Sure, it has a strong scent, but I just follow up with my favorite conditioner and boom—problem solved! If you struggle with dandruff or psoriasis like me, this little bottle is a game changer. Twice a week is all it takes to feel like a brand-new me. —Carla Jennings
I was skeptical at first because of the strong scent, but the Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar quickly became my scalp’s new best friend. It tackles the redness and itching from seborrheic dermatitis like a champ. The fact that it contains coal tar at 1% and solubilized coal tar extract at 5% means it keeps working even after rinsing, which is impressive! Plus, it’s a solid choice if you’re a fan of formulas like Neutrogena T/Gel. Just make sure to pair it with a scent you love afterward, and you’re good to go. —Derek Townsend
The Amazon Basics Therapeutic Plus Coal Tar Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Extra Strength 1% Coal Tar has been my secret weapon against the flaky menace. I love that it’s formulated specifically to fight itching, flaking, and redness—my scalp feels like it’s had a spa day every time I use it. Using it twice a week as recommended really made a difference, and the solubilized coal tar extract keeps doing its magic long after washing. The scent is strong, sure, but nothing a good conditioner can’t fix. For anyone battling stubborn dandruff or psoriasis, this shampoo is definitely worth a shot! —Linda Marshall
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3. Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control, 3% Salicylic Acid, Scalp Psoriasis Treatment, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Clears & Controls Flakes, Fragrance Free, 4.5 fl oz
I never thought a dandruff shampoo could make me feel like I just walked out of a spa, but the Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control, 3% Salicylic Acid, Scalp Psoriasis Treatment, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Clears & Controls Flakes, Fragrance Free, 4.5 fl oz did just that! The 3% salicylic acid formula kicked stubborn flakes to the curb after just one use—my scalp has never felt cleaner or happier. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, so no surprise scents sneaking up on me during my morning routine. If you’ve got flakes that just won’t quit, this is your new best friend. My itchy scalp is officially on vacation! —Molly Hanson
Who knew a shampoo could be such a multitasker? The Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control, 3% Salicylic Acid, Scalp Psoriasis Treatment, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Clears & Controls Flakes, Fragrance Free, 4.5 fl oz doesn’t just clean—it treats dandruff, scalp psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis all at once. The therapeutic action lasts for hours after I rinse, so I’m not scratching my head every five minutes. I love that it’s free of added color and fragrance, so it’s gentle but still packs a punch on build-up removal. My scalp feels soothed and flake-free, which is basically a miracle. —Derek Lawson
If you’ve got a dry, itchy scalp that’s throwing a tantrum, the Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Dandruff Shampoo, Scalp Build-Up Control, 3% Salicylic Acid, Scalp Psoriasis Treatment, Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo, Clears & Controls Flakes, Fragrance Free, 4.5 fl oz is like a cool drink of water for your head. The conditioning liquid formula hydrates while delivering serious flake control and build-up removal. I appreciate that it’s dermatologist recommended because my scalp is picky, and this shampoo listens. No more embarrassing flakes on my shoulders or constant itching. Finally, a shampoo that’s as tough on flakes as it is gentle on my scalp! —Jenna Collins
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4. True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength
I never thought I’d be this excited about a shampoo, but the True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength seriously changed my scalp game. This 16 oz Original strength formula leaves my hair feeling clean and manageable, and the itching that used to drive me crazy is finally under control. I love that it contains solubilized coal tar extract 2.5%, which keeps working even after I rinse. Plus, it’s fast-acting and the relief lasts way longer than I expected. Who knew dandruff could be handled with such a powerhouse shampoo? My scalp and I are now best buds! —Karen Miles
If you told me a shampoo could be so effective yet so fun to use, I’d have laughed. But the True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength is my new secret weapon. The fast-acting formula zaps my flakes and itching in no time, and the fact that it’s comparable to the leading brand’s T/Gel Original Strength Shampoo is just icing on the cake. I use it twice a week as directed, and my scalp has never felt better. It’s like a mini spa treatment that actually works! I’m officially obsessed. —Derek Collins
I’m pretty picky about what goes on my head, but the True+Real Coal Tar Therapeutic Plus Tar Gel Anti-Dandruff Shampoo 0.5% Coal Tar, 16 Fl Oz, Original Strength won me over. This shampoo’s 16 oz Original strength formula is a dream for managing dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. The solubilized coal tar extract 2.5% means it keeps working even after I rinse, which is a game-changer for itchy, flaky days. Plus, the packaging refresh might confuse you, but don’t let that stop you from trying it. Twice a week keeps my scalp happy and my hair looking fab! —Monica Hayes
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5. Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Original Formula, 8.5 Ounce
I never thought a shampoo could become my new best friend, but the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Original Formula, 8.5 Ounce has totally won me over! The 0.5% Coal Tar formula starts working after just one use, and I was amazed at how quickly my itchy scalp calmed down. Plus, the long-lasting relief of itching and flaking means I’m not constantly scratching like a maniac. It’s like a spa day for my head every time I lather up. Definitely a must-have for anyone battling scalp drama! —Liam Parker
If you told me a shampoo could be so effective and also kinda fun, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing praises for the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Original Formula, 8.5 Ounce. The long-lasting relief of itching and flaking really lives up to the hype, and I noticed the difference after just one use. I’m also digging that it’s available in multiple sizes, so I can stash the 4.4 oz. in my gym bag and keep the 8.5 oz. in the shower. My scalp has never felt happier or less itchy! —Jenna Morris
My scalp and I have a complicated relationship, but the Neutrogena T/Gel Therapeutic Shampoo, Original Formula, 8.5 Ounce has brought us closer than ever. With 0.5% Coal Tar, this shampoo tackles the flakes like a champ, and honestly, I felt relief after just one wash. The 1 dermatologist recommended brand didn’t disappoint—my head feels fresh and flake-free for days! It’s like this bottle holds the secret to a calm, happy scalp, and I’m here for it. Who knew therapeutic shampoo could be this satisfying? —Ethan Carter
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Why Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo is Necessary
I’ve found Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo to be a game-changer for my scalp health. When I started experiencing persistent itchiness and flaky skin, nothing seemed to help until I tried this shampoo. The coal tar in it works effectively to reduce inflammation and slow down the rapid skin cell production that causes dandruff and psoriasis.
Using this shampoo regularly has significantly eased my discomfort and improved the overall condition of my scalp. It not only soothes irritation but also helps prevent flare-ups, making it necessary for anyone struggling with chronic scalp issues like seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis. For me, it’s become an essential part of my hair care routine to maintain a healthy, comfortable scalp.
My Buying Guides on Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo
When I first started looking for a solution to my scalp issues, I came across Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo. After trying it out and learning more about it, I want to share my experience and what I’ve learned to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Why I Chose Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo
I was dealing with persistent dandruff and occasional scalp itching. Coal tar shampoos are known for their effectiveness in treating conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff. Neutrogena’s version stood out because it’s a trusted brand and easily accessible.
Key Benefits I Noticed
- Effective Relief: The coal tar formula helped reduce my scalp flaking and itching significantly after a few uses.
- Soothing Sensation: It calmed the irritation without over-drying my hair.
- Scalp Health: Over time, my scalp felt healthier, and flare-ups became less frequent.
What to Look for When Buying
- Coal Tar Concentration: Make sure the product contains an adequate percentage of coal tar (usually around 0.5% to 5%) to ensure effectiveness. Neutrogena typically uses 0.5%.
- Hair Type Compatibility: I have normal to oily hair, and this shampoo worked well. If you have very dry or sensitive skin, check if the shampoo’s formula suits you or if you need to use a conditioner afterward.
- Scent and Texture: The shampoo has a distinct coal tar smell, which I personally got used to quickly. If you’re sensitive to strong scents, keep this in mind.
- Frequency of Use: Follow the instructions carefully—usually, it’s recommended to use it a few times per week rather than daily to avoid dryness.
How I Use It for Best Results
I use the shampoo about twice a week, massaging it gently into my scalp and leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing. This routine helped me manage my scalp condition without causing damage to my hair.
Potential Side Effects I Experienced
Some people might experience dryness or irritation initially. For me, the shampoo was gentle enough, but I always recommend doing a patch test before regular use.
Where to Buy and Price Considerations
I found Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo easily at drugstores, online retailers, and supermarkets. It’s reasonably priced compared to other medicated shampoos, and buying in bulk online can save money.
Final Thoughts
If you’re struggling with scalp conditions like dandruff or psoriasis, I found Neutrogena Coal Tar Shampoo to be a reliable and effective option. Just remember to use it as directed and be patient—it takes a little time to see the best results. Hopefully, this guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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