Protar K Solution Shampoo

Protar K Solution Shampoo is a medicated scalp solution that combines coal tar 4% with ketoconazole 2%. Doctors prescribe it for scaly, itchy scalp conditions such as scalp psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis and stubborn dandruff: coal tar slows the excess build-up of scalp skin cells, while ketoconazole is an antifungal that acts against the Malassezia yeast linked to dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

What it does

• Reduces scaling, flaking and build-up on the scalp
• Antifungal action against dandruff-related yeast
• Helps relieve itching and redness
• Leave-on lather gives the actives time to work

Key ingredients

• Coal tar 4% – slows excess scalp cell turnover and reduces scaling
• Ketoconazole 2% – an antifungal medicine

Who it's for

Adults with scalp psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis or thick, persistent dandruff, as advised by a doctor. Coal tar can make the scalp more sun-sensitive and may slightly tint light or grey hair.

Where it fits in your routine

Wet hair and scalp, massage the shampoo into the scalp to lather and leave it on for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and repeat if needed. Use 2–3 times a week, or as your dermatologist directs.

Good to know

• Prescription medicine. Dispensed only against a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Use exactly as your doctor directs.
• Made in India by Percos India Pvt. Ltd., Haridwar (Uttarakhand)
• Shelf life: 24 months from manufacture
• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes; rinse well if contact occurs.

• Coal tar 4% – reduces scaling and flaking
• Ketoconazole 2% – antifungal action against dandruff-related yeast

FAQs

Q1. How does Protar K Solution Shampoo's triple-active formula work for dandruff and psoriasis?
A1. Protar K combines three actives with complementary mechanisms. Coal Tar Solution suppresses abnormally rapid keratinocyte hyperproliferation — the basis of scalp psoriasis where skin cells divide ten times faster than normal — while providing anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects. Ketoconazole eliminates Malassezia furfur (the yeast responsible for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis) by inhibiting ergosterol synthesis in the yeast's cell wall. Salicylic Acid dissolves the intercellular bonds holding scale and plaque to the scalp surface, lifting thick deposits and allowing Coal Tar and Ketoconazole to penetrate effectively.

Q2. How does Protar K Shampoo differ from using a plain antifungal shampoo?
A2. Standard antifungal shampoos containing Ketoconazole alone address only the Malassezia component of seborrheic dermatitis — they do not reduce the inflammatory keratinocyte overproduction that drives thick scalp scale in psoriasis, nor do they remove existing plaque. Protar K's three-way combination tackles all underlying mechanisms simultaneously: antiproliferative (Coal Tar), antifungal (Ketoconazole), and keratolytic (Salicylic Acid), making it significantly more appropriate than antifungal-only shampoos for moderate-to-severe seborrheic dermatitis or scalp psoriasis.

Q3. How long should Protar K Shampoo be left on the scalp for maximum effect?
A3. Apply to a wet scalp, lather well, and allow the shampoo to remain in contact with the scalp for five minutes before rinsing thoroughly. This dwell time is critical for Coal Tar's antiproliferative effect and Ketoconazole's antifungal action on Malassezia. Rinsing immediately after lathering — as with regular shampoo — significantly reduces efficacy. Use two to three times per week as prescribed, not daily.

Q4. Will Coal Tar in Protar K Shampoo discolour hair or cause sensitivity?
A4. Coal Tar can temporarily discolour very light-coloured (blonde, grey, or bleached) hair with repeated use — this effect is reversible and not permanent. On naturally dark South Asian hair, visible discolouration is generally not a concern. Coal Tar increases photosensitivity, so avoid sun exposure for 24 hours after use and do not use Protar K Solution Shampoo immediately before or after swimming in chlorinated water.

Q5. Can Protar K Shampoo be combined with a topical steroid or antifungal cream for scalp psoriasis?
A5. Yes — Protar K Solution Shampoo is often prescribed alongside topical corticosteroid lotions, antifungal creams, or Calcipotriol for moderate scalp psoriasis. The shampoo removes the overlying scale (via Salicylic Acid and Coal Tar's keratolytic action), allowing subsequently applied topical treatments to penetrate more effectively. Always follow your dermatologist's prescribed protocol for combining therapies.

Country of Origin: India
Mfg/Marketer details: Percos India Pvt. Ltd., Plot No. 23, Sector-6B, I.I.E., Sidcul, District Haridwar, Uttarakhand - 249403, India
Shelf Life: 24 months from manufacturing date
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Safety Information: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a doctor. Keep out of reach of children.