Capasal Therapeutic Shampoo

A medicated shampoo with three active ingredients. The patient leaflet says it treats dry, scaly scalp conditions, including seborrhoeic dermatitis, pityriasis capitis (severe dandruff), cradle cap and psoriasis. It can also be used to wash out other medicines applied to the scalp. It is for adults, children, infants and babies.

Salicylic acid 0.5% w/w; coconut oil 1.0% w/w; distilled coal tar 1.0% w/w

As stated by the manufacturer (see sources below). Formulas and specifications can change — check the pack or listing.

Wet the hair, apply a small amount to the scalp (about the size of a 50p coin for short hair), massage in with the fingertips and leave for a few minutes. Remove as much lather as possible with the hands, rinse, repeat if needed, then rinse well. It can be used daily if needed, reducing to once or twice a week as the scalp improves, and occasionally after that.

Keep the shampoo and lather away from the eyes; if it gets in, rinse with plenty of water. Do not use if allergic to any ingredient. Contains sodium benzoate, which may cause local irritation and may increase jaundice in newborn babies up to 4 weeks old. Stop using it and see a doctor, pharmacist or nurse if there is no improvement after 4 weeks or if the scalp gets worse. Rarely causes irritant or allergic reactions on very sensitive skin.

• Dandruff
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis
• Scalp psoriasis
• Dry or itchy scalp