A moisturizer applied over the tar preparation will decrease the drying effect on the skin. Some patients prefer a tar compounded in an ointment or cream base. To increase compliance with use, tar preparations may be recommended at bedtime. The preparation is then removed by washing in the morning, thus eliminating the concern about odor during the day and limiting staining of daytime clothing. Tar preparations should not be used on acutely inflamed skin, since this may result in additional skin irritation.
Side effects associated with tars include folliculitis and, occasionally, photosensitivity.
Tar shampoos are often beneficial for scalp involvement. Patient Education To achieve effective control of a patient's atopic dermatitis, it is important to educate patients and family members about the chronic nature of their disease, exacerbating factors, and appropriate treatment options. This is important to ensure cooperation and compliance with the treatment plan. Written information that includes detailed skin care recommendations, environmental control as well as general disease information can be very helpful. Patients should be educated on how to monitor their skin disease and know how to respond to changes in their status, and when to seek additional medical help.