Coal Tar: It’s Everywhere You Really Don’t Want it to Be

Even if you haven’t the slightest idea exactly what coal tar is, the mere sound of those two little words suggests that we’re in for a sticky ride. The question that we should all be asking ourselves is: “Why on earth is this brown-to-black, thick yet viscous byproduct of carbonized and gasified coal ending up in our health and beauty aids?” While someone in a lab coat deserves kudos for figuring out how to repurpose this seemingly undesirable compound, you might be inclined to take back your high fives in light of the following information.

Do you really want this stuff entering your waterstream and potentially your body?

First, let’s explore the basics. When coal, a highly combustible sedentary rock that generates the majority of our global energy (as well as a hefty amount of our carbon dioxide emissions), is processed, a dizzying array of heavy metal-laden waste products are left behind. In particular, highly flammable and carcinogenic coal tar — which contains roughly 10,000 chemicals, including heterocyclic compounds, phenols and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (the latter of which actually smells pretty good) — has been used in everything from Egyptian mummy preservation and the surface coating of roads to color-resistant fabric upholstery dyes and water-resistant roof shingle sealants.

Back in 1856, a man by the name of William Perkins tried in vain to create a synthetic form of quinine and realized during his laboratory experiments that coal tar came in handy as a dye ingredient. His findings have resulted in the substance migrating into many of our modern day personal care items, which is probably not such a good thing now that the European Chemicals Agency has deemed it to be a toxic and/or carcinogenic “substance of very high concern.” Oddly enough, the FDA and the National Psoriasis Foundation still seem to think that it’s safe enough to use in skin and scalp treatments such as DHS Tar, Oxipor, Neutrogena T/Gel and Polytar as well as in hair dyes, soaps, deodorants, cosmetics and even foods, but there are some serious health concerns that consumers should keep in mind.

Hair color devotees who never let a month pass without touching up their locks might want to pay close attention. According to a 2001 USC School of Medicine study, “women using permanent hair dye (containing coal tar) at least once a month for a period more than one year more than double their risk of bladder cancer,” and that risk increases more than four times when they’ve dyed their hair consistently for 10-plus years. Laboratory animals also succumb to coal tar’s carcinogenic effects, but the substance has also been proven to irritate the skin, eyes and mucous membranes; cause blindness; depress the central nervous system and result in respiratory and cardiovascular system issues.

And, of course, there is the disposal of coal tar and products that contain the toxin. Coal tar products have been known to leech into soil and work their way into municipal waterways, creating a host of gastrointestinal and thyroid issues, and raising risk for lupus, immune system deficiencies and rheumatoid arthritis. Consider coal tar a hazardous waste item. Please bring it to your nearest drop-off location instead of dumping coal tar-containing items in the trash or down the drain.

The best course of action for consumers interested in ensuring their health and safety is to avoid coal tar altogether by paying close attention to product labels and purchasing natural/organic versions whenever possible. If going au naturel with your hair color is not a bridge that you’re willing to cross, then consider exploring nontoxic, plant-based permanent coloring products such as Aubrey Organics’ Color Me Natural instead. If you have a psoriasis issue that needs addressing, there are multiple home remedies that are worth trying, including the application of cashew nut oil, marigold lotion or a cabbage leaf compress to the affected area. Although many conventional cosmetics utilize coal tar-derived colorants, it is easier than ever to purchase 100% natural versions manufactured by such companies as SANTE Cosmetics, Ecco Bella, Human Nature, Nvey Eco and Lavera.

More than anything, it is imperative that we all commit to becoming well-informed consumers who take responsibility for our own health and wellness. The days of blind faith are long behind us, so keep a scrutinizing eye on all product labels and support companies that are dedicated to sourcing ethical, sustainably harvested ingredients that are botanically based. Your whole body and the earth around you will thank you for it!