Human skin is capable of synthesizing a number of antibacterial chemicals that prevent the proliferation of potentially dangerous microorganisms. We are talking not only about a physical barrier to pathogenic infections, but also about peptide compounds with a pronounced antibacterial effect.
Sulfur-tar ointment has many beneficial properties. Indirect evidence of this is the enormous popularity of this medicine among patients who highly appreciate the high effectiveness, affordability and naturalness of the drug’s composition. Let us dwell in more detail on the features of this pharmaceutical product.
General information
An ointment based on sulfur is widely used for various diseases of the dermis. The simple composition makes the ointment accessible to different segments of the population, because prices per jar start at only 28 rubles.
The drug is used not only to relieve unpleasant symptoms, but also as the main medicine that can eliminate the cause of the disease. The main component, which is sulfur in its pure form, better known as a chemical element, is supplemented by the following auxiliary substances:
- petrolatum;
- water;
- emulsifier.
In the pharmacy you can find sulfur ointment packaged in glass jars with a plastic lid or in aluminum tubes.
Analogs
Among the analogues of sulfur-tar ointment, there are no pharmaceutical products with identical composition components. Dermatologists prescribe the following drugs as substitutes for the liniment in question:
- "Sulfur-salicylic ointment";
- "Sulfuric ointment";
- "Peruvian balsam";
- "Permetri";
- "Benzyl benzoate";
- "Spregal".
Only a doctor selects an effective analogue. Self-medication is often ineffective, and in some cases only worsens the disease. The compositions of the listed medications are different, therefore it is important to pre-adjust the treatment regimen.
Pharmacology
The ointment exerts its antimicrobial and antiparasitic effect upon contact with the skin. It interacts with substances of organic origin, resulting in the formation of sulfides and pentathionic acid. They make sulfur ointment a natural antiseptic.
When in contact with the skin, the components of sulfur ointment are not absorbed into the blood, which means they do not have a systemic effect on the body: they do not put a strain on the liver, do not require filtration by the kidneys, and do not affect the functioning of other internal organs.
Brief information about the composition of the drug
Tar ointment is a thick substance with a pungent odor. Its main component is birch tar - a dark liquid oily substance that is obtained during the dry distillation of wood. Local preparations with tar have a positive effect on the skin, resulting in:
- provides an antiseptic and disinfectant effect;
- reproduction stops, the vital activity of parasitic microorganisms is inhibited;
- foci of inflammation are stopped;
- blood microcirculation is activated, nutrition of epidermal cells is improved;
- The recovery of affected areas is accelerated, their structure is restored, and natural functions are normalized.
Ointment manufacturers use the following as auxiliary ingredients:
- glycerol;
- beeswax or other oily cosmetic base;
- essential oils.
Be careful! The composition of tar ointment may vary depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, people with hypersensitivity reactions to certain substances should carefully study the annotation describing the substances included in the drug before purchasing.
The ointment is available to most consumers - the average price of a forty-gram jar is 60 rubles. But, if desired, it can be prepared at home. To do this, melt equal parts of birch tar, butter and wax over low heat. Then mix well, cool and place in a tightly sealed container. Store in the refrigerator.
Indications for the use of sulfur ointment
Due to its antiseptic properties, sulfur ointment is actively used for various dermatoses:
- fungal;
- bacterial;
- parasitic.
Therefore, with the help of ointment alone, if used correctly, you can cure skin diseases such as:
- lichen;
- foot fungus;
- scabies;
- seborrheic dermatitis;
- acne;
- pigmentation;
- acne;
- demodicosis
It is separately noted that such a complex and untreatable disease as psoriasis can be stopped through the use of sulfur ointment. Psoriasis is a skin disease that is not associated with parasites or fungal infections. It is classified as a genetic disease. As a result of disturbances in the rate of cell division, growths appear. They are filled with small capillaries. When they are mildly affected, bleeding begins, which is difficult to stop.
In this case, sulfur ointment reduces the risk of secondary infection of psoriasis wounds, which, in turn, reduces the incidence of itching. Without touching the growths to scratch, the patient does not tear them until they bleed and does not increase the wounds. Thus, sulfur ointment helps to minimize the spread of ulcers throughout the body.
Reviews
The effectiveness of treating dermatological diseases with sulfur-tar ointment is also evidenced by reviews from patients who have used the drug. In modern realities, this argument is much more powerful than intrusive advertising.
Vika, 24 years old, Podolsk
Objectively speaking, this is one of the most affordable ointments in the pharmacy. I used sulfur-tar ointment 4 times and in each case it saved me from skin problems. In my free time I look after cats (volunteer), so the danger of catching shingles from stray animals is more pressing for me than for anyone else. One day he discovers a small red spot on his hand. I applied ointment, but even on the 3rd day it did not disappear, but only itched more. I contacted a dermatologist, it turned out that it was herpes and the medication I was using was prohibited. These are the pies. Therefore, consultation with a doctor is mandatory.
Darina, 23 years old, Barnaul
About 6 months ago I used sulfur-tar ointment in combination with antiviral therapy to treat herpes zoster. I applied the cream once a day before bed, according to the recommendations specified in the instructions. The itching decreased already on day 2. After 4 days, the spots on the skin began to decrease in size and heal. At a price of 65 rubles, this is the best drug I have ever used.
Sulfur-tar ointment (review) from 30 rub.
Overall
4.9
- Efficiency
- Price
- Safety
- Availability
Pros
- Efficiency
- Price
- Availability
Cons
- Specific smell
Instructions for using sulfur ointment
The ointment as a medicine is applied in a thin layer to previously cleansed skin. If water remains on the surface, it will prevent the active components of the product from contacting the infected area. Therefore, be sure to dry the surface with a towel or napkin before applying.
The ointment is used only on the skin, excluding mucous membranes. You cannot rub sulfur ointment into the lacrimal sac, apply it under the lower or upper eyelid, lubricate the mucous membranes of the nasal passages with it, or treat stomatitis. In case of accidental contact with eyes, rinse them immediately with a slightly salted solution of clean water. Accidental ingestion may indicate immediate gastric lavage.
Sulfur ointment is often used as the main remedy for lichen. Apply a moderate layer to the affected area, spreading the ointment evenly over the entire area. It is important to carefully, slowly, rub the product into the upper layers of the skin. The procedure is repeated twice a day. The second application should be in the evening, just before bedtime. The duration of treatment is up to 10 days.
The scabies mite, which causes an itchy sensation on the skin, can be easily treated with sulfur ointment. The difficulty of treatment lies in ensuring that one condition is met: the product must be constantly present on the affected areas. As a result, wearing clothes can be difficult. During treatment, it is better to stay at home, apply a new layer of ointment after each shower, rubbing it into the affected areas. The second mandatory condition is changing bed linen after every night. Sheets and duvet covers must be washed at high temperatures, after which they must be ironed with steam.
For demodicosis, sulfur ointment acts as an auxiliary component of complex therapy. The main therapeutic agent, as a rule, is a drug for systemic use. In this case, sulfur ointment helps to avoid secondary infection and prevents the spread of the affected area throughout the body.
If a pimple on the skin has a purulent body, this indicates that it was caused by a bacterium. Pus is formed as a result of the activity of bacteria. To get rid of acne or pimples with white contents, you can use sulfur ointment. There is no need to open the rash elements first. The product is applied in a thin layer to dry, previously cleansed skin.
Instructions for use
The medicine in question is considered safe for patients, but before starting treatment we recommend consulting with a dermatologist. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage of the medication, determine the frequency of treatment of problem areas and the duration of therapy.
Instructions for use of sulfur-tar ointment:
- Liniment is evenly distributed over the entire affected area in a thin layer. For rapid absorption by the epithelial layer, rubbing into the skin with light massage movements is allowed.
- The average dosage of the drug is 2-3 g. Treatment procedures are carried out 1-2 times a day. With severe infiltration, the application of an occlusive dressing is indicated.
- The duration of therapy is from 2 to 10 days.
- To treat scabies, the entire body except the head is treated with a pharmaceutical agent.
Before the session and after 24 hours, you must completely change your underwear and bed linen. It is important for the patient to wash himself under running water in the shower. Since this is a safe drug, the course of treatment can be prolonged at the discretion of the attending physician.
Indications and contraindications
Sulfur-tar ointment helps not only against lichen, but also a number of other diseases. The components of the ointment exhibit pronounced activity against pathogenic microorganisms.
Indications for the drug:
- psoriasis;
- rosacea;
- scabies and lichens;
- demodicosis;
- fungal infections of the dermis;
- seborrhea.
Despite the fact that the remedy can be used at home, doctors do not recommend self-medication. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment regimen can only be established by a doctor after an individual examination of the patient. Otherwise, there is a high risk of worsening pathologies.
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An effective analogue of sulfur-tar ointment Benzyl benzoate is a drug for combating hypodermic mites and other parasites.
Directions for use and doses
Sulfur-tar ointment is used only externally, evenly covering the skin affected by the disease. The dosage for each patient is determined individually, taking into account the severity and characteristics of the disease.
Average recommended values for use:
- To treat scabies, liniment must be applied once a day. The average dosage is 2-4 g. Duration of therapy is up to 5 days.
- For psoriasis, rosacea and demodicosis, the pharmaceutical agent is applied to the surface of problem areas 2 times a day. Only the hair growth area is left untreated. In case of severe swelling or infiltration, the ointment application is fixed with a sterile bandage. Duration of therapy is up to 10 days.
The course of treatment is not limited by time frame. Often the drug is applied until the patient recovers completely and the unpleasant symptoms are eliminated. The treatment regimen is adjusted by the doctor.
Side effects and special instructions
Sulfur-tar ointment is exceptionally tolerable, and therefore has virtually no contraindications for use. Side effects occur mainly due to individual intolerance to one of the components of the drug and are of a rapidly passing allergic nature.
Special instructions:
- Before applying the tar composition, the problem area can be treated with alcohol or another antiseptic.
- We are talking about a natural and environmentally friendly drug that is not addictive even with prolonged use.
- The medicine is widely used in veterinary medicine. Often you can see the corresponding designation on the packaging.
- With a well-designed treatment regimen, the medicine stops the development of psoriasis. The medication is actively used in modern cosmetology.
The doctor may prescribe a treatment regimen for the patient that is different from the one indicated in the instructions.
Pregnancy and lactation
Sulfur-tar ointment is absolutely safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. It is important to consult with a therapist before starting treatment. In case of severe pathologies, it is recommended to stop breastfeeding while using the medication. Vaseline base is not absorbed into the main bloodstream and does not cross the placental barrier.
Use in childhood
Sulfur-tar ointment is often prescribed for the treatment of lichen and scabies in children. This is the best argument for the safety of liniment components. The dosage is fully consistent with that prescribed for adults. To exclude side effects and allergic reactions to the drug, it is important to first undergo an examination by a pediatrician or dermatologist.
Contraindications
The main contraindication to the use of sulfur ointment is individual intolerance to the active substance. If the skin reacts sharply with allergic rashes to contact with sulfur, treatment with the ointment will have to be canceled and another remedy used.
In addition, with extensive damage to the body by fungal or bacterial infections, there is a high risk of getting sulfur poisoning - if more than 30% of the skin is covered with the drug. If scabies spreads throughout the body, use less dangerous sprays.
If the patient has not previously had experience with sulfur ointment treatment, it is recommended to first test it on the wrist by applying a small amount of the product. If redness or burning occurs, you will have to stop using sulfur ointment.
Prices and conditions for dispensing from pharmacies
The pharmaceutical drug in question is sold in pharmacies over the counter, due to its relative safety. Many people wonder how much does sulfur-tar ointment cost? The price of the drug in Moscow pharmacies varies from 30 to 169 rubles. If your nearest pharmacy does not have the medicine, you can always order it online with free delivery to the nearest point of sale.
Indications for use
Instructions for use state that tar ointment helps with:
- depriving;
- boils;
- pustular rash and trophic ulcers;
- subcutaneous mite (demodex);
- scabies;
- eczema;
- rashes of herpetic origin;
- fungal skin diseases;
- bedsores.
The drug also helps against psoriasis and helps eliminate cosmetic defects such as enlarged pores and acne.
Additional Information. In addition to ointments, there are other products based on birch tar - soap, shampoos, creams. Their use is indicated for problem skin, dandruff, hair loss, excessive sweating of the body or extremities.
