Alphosyl 2-in-1 Shampoo 5% w/w – 250ml
£9.99
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Overview
Alphosyl 2-in-1 Shampoo is a medicated shampoo containing 5% w/w coal tar solution — a licensed, clinically established active ingredient for the treatment of scalp psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and other scaling scalp conditions. Coal tar has been used in dermatological treatments for over a century and has a well-evidenced mechanism of action: it slows the excessive scalp cell turnover that produces the thick, adherent scaling and inflammation associated with scalp psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
The 2-in-1 format combines the medicated treatment action with a conditioning element, helping to manage the dryness and brittleness that scaling scalp conditions can cause in the hair over time. A trusted, pharmacist-recommended option for those managing chronic scalp conditions that require more than a standard cosmetic shampoo. Browse the full range of scalp treatment products or speak to one of our pharmacists in store for guidance on managing your scalp condition.
What It Does
- Treats scalp psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis with coal tar. The 5% w/w coal tar solution slows the abnormally rapid scalp cell turnover associated with psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis — reducing the build-up of thick scale, relieving the associated inflammation and itching, and supporting the scalp towards a more normal cell renewal cycle.
- Reduces scaling, flaking, and itching. Regular use helps to loosen and remove the adherent scale that builds up on the scalp in psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis, reducing visible flaking and the discomfort of an inflamed, itchy scalp.
- Conditions the hair alongside treatment. The 2-in-1 formulation incorporates a conditioning element that helps counteract the dryness and brittleness that scaling scalp conditions can cause in the hair over time, making the treatment experience more comfortable and the hair easier to manage.
How to Apply
- Apply to wet hair and scalp. Massage the shampoo thoroughly into the scalp, ensuring coverage across all affected areas.
- Leave on the scalp for the recommended contact time. Allow the shampoo to remain on the scalp for the time specified in the product leaflet — this contact time is important for the coal tar to work effectively on the scalp. Please supply the specific contact time from the product leaflet before publishing.
- Rinse thoroughly. Rinse the hair and scalp completely with water.
- Use at the frequency recommended on the packaging. Usage frequency for medicated shampoos varies — follow the specific instructions in the product leaflet rather than applying daily as you would a standard shampoo. Please supply the recommended frequency from the product leaflet before publishing.
- Read the full patient information leaflet before use. This is a licensed medicinal product — read all instructions, contraindications, and warnings in the pack before first use.
Always read the label. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your GP or pharmacist.
Who It's For
- Those with scalp psoriasis — Alphosyl 2-in-1 is a recognised, clinically established treatment option for the scaling, inflammation, and itching of scalp psoriasis.
- Those with seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp — a common chronic scalp condition associated with Malassezia yeast overgrowth, producing scaling, flaking, and inflammation that responds to coal tar treatment.
- Those with other scaling scalp conditions — including dandruff that has not responded adequately to standard cosmetic anti-dandruff shampoos and may benefit from a medicated approach.
This is a licensed medicinal product. Read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for your scalp condition, speak to your pharmacist or GP before purchasing.
Good to Know
- This is a licensed medicine, not a cosmetic shampoo. Alphosyl 2-in-1 contains a licensed active ingredient and is classified as a medicinal product. Always read the patient information leaflet in full before use and follow the instructions provided.
- Coal tar can increase photosensitivity. Coal tar preparations can temporarily increase the skin's sensitivity to UV light — avoid prolonged sun exposure or sunbed use during and immediately after treatment. Apply sunscreen to treated areas if UV exposure is likely.
- Coal tar has a characteristic odour. Coal tar products have a distinctive, medicinal smell — this is normal and expected. The odour is most noticeable during application and diminishes after rinsing.
- Do not use on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin. Consult your GP or pharmacist if your scalp condition is severe, bleeding, or acutely inflamed before using this product.
- Not for use during pregnancy without medical advice. Consult your GP or pharmacist before using coal tar products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Always read the label. Keep out of reach of children.
Overview
Alphosyl 2-in-1 Shampoo is a medicated shampoo containing 5% w/w coal tar solution — a licensed, clinically established active ingredient for the treatment of scalp psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, and other scaling scalp conditions. Coal tar has been used in dermatological treatments for over a century and has a well-evidenced mechanism of action: it slows the excessive scalp cell turnover that produces the thick, adherent scaling and inflammation associated with scalp psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis.
The 2-in-1 format combines the medicated treatment action with a conditioning element, helping to manage the dryness and brittleness that scaling scalp conditions can cause in the hair over time. A trusted, pharmacist-recommended option for those managing chronic scalp conditions that require more than a standard cosmetic shampoo. Browse the full range of scalp treatment products or speak to one of our pharmacists in store for guidance on managing your scalp condition.
What It Does
- Treats scalp psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis with coal tar. The 5% w/w coal tar solution slows the abnormally rapid scalp cell turnover associated with psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis — reducing the build-up of thick scale, relieving the associated inflammation and itching, and supporting the scalp towards a more normal cell renewal cycle.
- Reduces scaling, flaking, and itching. Regular use helps to loosen and remove the adherent scale that builds up on the scalp in psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis, reducing visible flaking and the discomfort of an inflamed, itchy scalp.
- Conditions the hair alongside treatment. The 2-in-1 formulation incorporates a conditioning element that helps counteract the dryness and brittleness that scaling scalp conditions can cause in the hair over time, making the treatment experience more comfortable and the hair easier to manage.
How to Apply
- Apply to wet hair and scalp. Massage the shampoo thoroughly into the scalp, ensuring coverage across all affected areas.
- Leave on the scalp for the recommended contact time. Allow the shampoo to remain on the scalp for the time specified in the product leaflet — this contact time is important for the coal tar to work effectively on the scalp. Please supply the specific contact time from the product leaflet before publishing.
- Rinse thoroughly. Rinse the hair and scalp completely with water.
- Use at the frequency recommended on the packaging. Usage frequency for medicated shampoos varies — follow the specific instructions in the product leaflet rather than applying daily as you would a standard shampoo. Please supply the recommended frequency from the product leaflet before publishing.
- Read the full patient information leaflet before use. This is a licensed medicinal product — read all instructions, contraindications, and warnings in the pack before first use.
Always read the label. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your GP or pharmacist.
Who It's For
- Those with scalp psoriasis — Alphosyl 2-in-1 is a recognised, clinically established treatment option for the scaling, inflammation, and itching of scalp psoriasis.
- Those with seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp — a common chronic scalp condition associated with Malassezia yeast overgrowth, producing scaling, flaking, and inflammation that responds to coal tar treatment.
- Those with other scaling scalp conditions — including dandruff that has not responded adequately to standard cosmetic anti-dandruff shampoos and may benefit from a medicated approach.
This is a licensed medicinal product. Read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure whether this product is appropriate for your scalp condition, speak to your pharmacist or GP before purchasing.
Good to Know
- This is a licensed medicine, not a cosmetic shampoo. Alphosyl 2-in-1 contains a licensed active ingredient and is classified as a medicinal product. Always read the patient information leaflet in full before use and follow the instructions provided.
- Coal tar can increase photosensitivity. Coal tar preparations can temporarily increase the skin's sensitivity to UV light — avoid prolonged sun exposure or sunbed use during and immediately after treatment. Apply sunscreen to treated areas if UV exposure is likely.
- Coal tar has a characteristic odour. Coal tar products have a distinctive, medicinal smell — this is normal and expected. The odour is most noticeable during application and diminishes after rinsing.
- Do not use on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin. Consult your GP or pharmacist if your scalp condition is severe, bleeding, or acutely inflamed before using this product.
- Not for use during pregnancy without medical advice. Consult your GP or pharmacist before using coal tar products if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Always read the label. Keep out of reach of children.
FAQs
What scalp conditions is this shampoo used for?
Alphosyl 2-in-1 Shampoo is indicated for the treatment of scalp psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis — two of the most common chronic scaling scalp conditions. It may also be used for other scaling conditions of the scalp where coal tar treatment is appropriate. If you are unsure whether your scalp condition is appropriate for this product, speak to your pharmacist or GP before purchasing.
How does coal tar treat scalp psoriasis?
In scalp psoriasis, the scalp's skin cells are produced at an abnormally accelerated rate — many times faster than normal — which leads to the build-up of thick, adherent scaling and the inflammatory response associated with the condition. Coal tar works by inhibiting DNA synthesis in these rapidly dividing cells, slowing the cell turnover rate towards normal. This reduces scale build-up and the associated inflammation and itching. Coal tar also has mild antipruritic (anti-itch) and antiseptic properties that contribute to overall symptom relief.
How often should I use this shampoo?
Usage frequency should be followed as specified in the patient information leaflet included with the product — medicated shampoos are not always used daily in the same way as standard cosmetic shampoos, and the correct frequency is an important part of using this product safely and effectively. Please supply the specific recommended frequency from the product leaflet before publishing this listing.
Can I use this shampoo if I am pregnant?
Coal tar preparations should not be used during pregnancy without medical advice. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and need treatment for a scalp condition, consult your GP or pharmacist for guidance on safe and appropriate treatment options before using this product.
Will this shampoo stain my hair or scalp?
Coal tar can cause temporary discolouration on lighter or blonde hair with regular use — this is a known characteristic of coal tar preparations and is worth being aware of if you have light-coloured hair. Coal tar can also leave marks on light-coloured fabrics and surfaces if not rinsed promptly — rinse the skin and any surfaces thoroughly after use and protect clothing and light-coloured towels during application.
Can I use this shampoo alongside other scalp treatments?
If you are using other topical scalp treatments — such as corticosteroid scalp applications or other medicated products — consult your GP or pharmacist before adding Alphosyl 2-in-1 to your routine. Combination use of scalp treatments should be guided by a healthcare professional to ensure the products are compatible and the overall treatment approach is appropriate for your condition.
Is this product available without a prescription?
Yes — Alphosyl 2-in-1 Shampoo is available to purchase without a prescription as an over-the-counter licensed medicine. However, if your scalp condition is severe, undiagnosed, or has not responded to previous treatment, we recommend speaking to your pharmacist or GP before purchasing to ensure this is the most appropriate product for your specific situation.