Tar acne

Tar acne
Synonyms	Coal tar acne, pitch acne
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Comedones, papules, pustules
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Exposure to coal tar, asphalt, shale oil
Risks	Occupational exposure in industries using tar products
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, patient history
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	Use of protective clothing, minimizing skin contact with tar
Treatment	Avoidance of tar exposure, topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Rare, primarily in industrial settings
Deaths	N/A

Tar acne is a type of acne that is caused by exposure to coal tar products. Coal tar is a thick, heavy oil and is a byproduct of the production of coke, a type of fuel made from coal. It can be found in shampoos, soaps, and ointments.

Causes

Tar acne is caused by exposure to coal tar products. These products can clog the pores on the skin, leading to the formation of acne. The exact mechanism of how coal tar causes acne is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the overproduction of sebum, an oily substance produced by the skin's sebaceous glands.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tar acne are similar to those of other types of acne. They include:

• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Papules
• Pustules
• Nodules
• Cysts

Treatment

Treatment for tar acne involves avoiding exposure to coal tar products. If exposure cannot be avoided, protective clothing and skin cleansing products can be used to minimize contact with the skin. In some cases, topical or oral medications may be prescribed to help clear the acne.

Prevention

Prevention of tar acne involves avoiding exposure to coal tar products. If exposure cannot be avoided, protective clothing and skin cleansing products can be used to minimize contact with the skin.

See also

• Acne
• Coal tar
• Sebum
• Pores