Dealing with skin conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff can be frustrating. Over the years, I’ve tried countless products, some promising miracles and others leaving me disappointed. That’s why I decided to give Dermabon Psoriasis & Dandruff Control Soap a try. Marketed as a therapeutic bar with coal tar as its active ingredient, it aims to soothe irritated skin and manage persistent flaking. Here’s my complete experience with this soap, highlighting both the good and the not-so-good.
Packaging
Dermabon comes in a paper cardboard box, which feels more functional than fancy. There’s no luxurious unboxing experience here, but it gets the job done. The labeling is informative, listing out active ingredients like coal tar, directions for use, manufacturer details (Dermabon Chihuahua), and even FDA registration details, which gave me some confidence about its legitimacy. The box is opaque, so you can’t see the soap until you open it. Inside, the soap itself is a solid, dark green (almost black) bar, available in either a standard rectangular or a more unique hexagonal shape. Overall, the packaging feels practical and straightforward, much like a tool you’d want for a specific purpose.
Ingredients
While Dermabon markets itself as containing “100% natural components,” it does include a few synthetic ingredients like Methylparaben and Sodium Hypochlorite alongside natural ones. The star here is Coal Tar (2%-2.13%), a time-tested treatment for psoriasis and dandruff. Moisturizing agents such as Glycerin, Lanolin, Petrolatum, and Vitamin E are also included to combat dryness. I appreciated that it’s cortisone-free and Kosher certified, but I did note the absence of organic certification. It’s worth mentioning that coal tar can make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so sun protection afterward is crucial. Also, while marketed for psoriasis and dandruff, it’s mentioned to potentially help with eczema, acne, fungal conditions, diaper rash, and cradle cap.
Scent
Although advertised as unscented, you can’t escape the distinct medicinal smell of coal tar. It’s not overwhelmingly strong but definitely noticeable during and after use. Since there are no added fragrances, the scent feels more clinical than cosmetic, aligning with its purpose as a therapeutic product rather than a beauty soap. Personally, I got used to the smell over time, but it’s something you might want to consider if you have a sensitive nose.
Lather and Application
If you’re expecting a rich, foamy lather, this soap will surprise you. Dermabon does not lather much — a fact clearly stated by the brand. Instead, it produces a modest amount of foam and needs to be left on the skin for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the active ingredients to work. This was a bit of an adjustment for me, but once it became part of my routine, it felt natural. Rinsing it off is easy enough, although I made sure to thoroughly wash any residue to prevent staining my towels. I also learned to avoid applying it to broken or inflamed skin without consulting a doctor first.
Effectiveness
Now, the most important part: does it work? In my experience, yes — but patience is key. I noticed a reduction in itching and scaling within the first two weeks of daily use. By the third week, the improvements were even more visible, with less redness and irritation. Dermabon also helped control my scalp dandruff when used carefully along the hairline. However, it’s important to use it consistently and allow it to sit on the skin as directed. Sporadic use didn’t yield the same satisfying results. I appreciated the moisturizing effect too; my skin felt less dry than it usually does with other coal tar products.
Size and Lifespan
The standard 90-gram (3.2 oz) bar of Dermabon lasted me about three weeks with daily use, mainly on targeted areas. The bar is fairly durable, but because you need to let it sit on the skin for a few minutes, it does wear down a little faster than regular soap. I liked that it’s available in single bars, 3-packs, and 6-packs, offering some flexibility based on your needs. One thing to be cautious about: coal tar can stain fabrics, so I kept separate towels for use after showering and was careful with light-colored clothing and surfaces.
Brand Reputation
Dermabon is manufactured by a company based in Chihuahua, Mexico and specializes in coal tar treatments for skin conditions. It’s FDA registered and Kosher certified, adding a layer of credibility. Customer reviews are generally positive, and one study even cited a 93% effectiveness rate. That being said, information about ethical sourcing, cruelty-free status, or environmental practices is not readily available. From my experience, they seem focused more on the therapeutic benefits than marketing or branding frills.
Price and Value
At around $29 to $30 for a single bar, Dermabon isn’t cheap. However, considering how niche and targeted the product is, I found the price fair, especially because it genuinely helped my symptoms. Buying multi-packs can significantly reduce the price per bar, so if you plan to use it long-term, stocking up might be a smart move. Plus, the improvement in my skin health meant I was spending less on other lotions and treatments, so it balanced out in the bigger picture.
Availability
Dermabon isn’t something you’re likely to find at your local pharmacy. It’s mainly available online through retailers like Amazon, Walmart.com, eBay, and their own website. Accessibility is pretty good within the U.S., and I didn’t experience any stock issues while ordering. I do recommend checking different platforms for occasional discounts or bundle deals.
- Highly effective for psoriasis, dandruff, and other skin conditions with consistent use
- Moisturizing ingredients help prevent dryness
- FDA registered and Kosher certified
- No added fragrances
- Available in multipacks for better value
- Noticeable coal tar smell
- Can stain fabrics, towels, and lighter-colored surfaces
- Higher price point compared to regular soaps
- Requires patience and a commitment to consistent use
- Increased photosensitivity after use (needs sun protection)
Overall Rating
On a personal scale, I would rate Dermabon Psoriasis & Dandruff Control Soap a solid 4.5 out of 5. The minor inconveniences like smell and staining are easily outweighed by how well it managed my symptoms. It’s a specialty product that delivers where it matters most. Regular, disciplined use made a huge difference for me.
Tips & Recommendations
If you decide to try Dermabon, here are a few tips:
- Be consistent: Daily use with the 3-5 minute wait time is crucial for seeing results.
- Use dedicated towels: Avoid staining your good linens and bathroom surfaces.
- Patch test: Especially if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
- Protect from the sun: Treated skin is extra sensitive to UV rays; use sunscreen or cover treated areas.
- Manage your expectations: Improvement is gradual and varies from person to person. Stick with it.
- Travel smart: The bar is compact enough for travel, but be sure to store it properly to avoid messes.
In my experience, Dermabon is worth trying if you’re battling persistent skin issues and are looking for a non-steroidal, therapeutic option. Just give it the time and attention it needs to work its magic—and don’t forget your sunscreen!
