Ingredient guide
Coal Tar in Face Moisturizer
What Coal Tar does in face moisturizer and how it's regulated.
About Coal Tar
A thick, dark liquid derived from the processing of coal.
Why brands use it in face moisturizer
Other manufacturers use it in medicated products marketed for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, and as a base for hair dye pigments. Numbrrrz does not use this ingredient.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: Approved for OTC use in anti-dandruff and psoriasis products at concentrations up to 5%. Coal tar hair dyes are exempt from FDA certification requirements.
- European Union: Not permitted in cosmetics
- Canada: Restricted in cosmetics
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in face moisturizer:
salicylic acid (for dandruff/psoriasis)
zinc pyrithione
tea tree oil
plant-derived hair colorants (henna, indigo)
FAQ
What is Coal Tar?
A thick, dark liquid derived from the processing of coal.
Why is Coal Tar used in face moisturizer?
Other manufacturers use it in medicated products marketed for psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis, and as a base for hair dye pigments. Numbrrrz does not use this ingredient.
How is Coal Tar regulated?
Approved for OTC use in anti-dandruff and psoriasis products at concentrations up to 5%. Coal tar hair dyes are exempt from FDA certification requirements. It is not permitted in cosmetics sold in the EU. Canada restricts its use in cosmetics.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Coal Tar?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
